Saxophonist Branford Marsalis last performed at the Modlin Center for the Arts in 2014, and recently returned, he said, because of the enthusiastic community that greeted him at the University.

Marsalis performed in Camp Concert Hall last Wednesday as part of a limited tour with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. Richmond was the only university stop. During the show, the 34 members of the orchestra worked together without a conductor and traded roles leading the performances.

“I just love performing,” Marsalis said. “I love playing with musicians. I'll always love that. Even when I retire, I'll still love it.”

The group opened the evening with the overture to The Barber of Seville, then performed “Rhapsody for Alto Saxophone” by Claude Debussy, “La oración de torero,” and “Carmen Jazz Suite on Themes by Bizet.”

Marsalis said some of favorite music comes from the era featured in the performance. He often likes to listen to 18th century Baroque or opera.

The three-time Grammy winner first picked up a saxophone as a Christmas present in 1974, after he had tried his hand at piano and clarinet. From then on, it’s been a daily relationship.

“I don't love practicing, only a fool loves practicing, but I still do it about two hours each day,” he said. “I understand that’s just part of it. And I don’t want to stop, because if I do, I could lose it, and not realize it until it’s too late.”

His message to budding musicians — and the University community in general — was simple: “It’s in your best interest to listen to as much great music in all different styles as possible.”

Marsalis’ performance kicks off the 2022 season at the Center for the Arts.