We Have Recently Lost Another Trumpet Great- Mr. Lew Soloff

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The following was taken directly from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Lewis Michael Soloff (February 20, 1944 – March 8, 2015) was an American jazz trumpeter, composer and actor. From New York City, he studied trumpet at the Eastman School of Music and the Juilliard School. He worked with Blood, Sweat & Tears from 1968 until 1973. Prior to this, he worked with Machito, Gil Evans, Tony Scott, Maynard Ferguson and Tito Puente. He was also a longtime member of the Manhattan Jazz Quintet and Mingus Big Band. In the 1980s he was a member of Members Only, a jazz ensemble…

Who ARE Jim Morrison

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On May 9th of last year I posted information on a “not so well known” musician who for some might not know. His name is James Morrison. This is a promotion video for his new CD “Snappy Too”. For additional information on Mr. Morrison, visit my original page from last year.

“Doc”

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Few trumpet players have been able to influence the trumpet world as much as “Doc” Severinsen. Through his long term as musical director of the Tonight Show Band with Johnny Carson he became a household name which was recognized by all. His flamboyant dress code and his back home humor was a refreshing contrast to the polished and sometimes elite attitude of many guest visiting the Tonight Show stage. Each night this wonderful orchestra entertained us with everything from hard bop to symphonic scores and at the helm each and every night with this sometimes humble and often spectacular trumpet…

Final “Stiff Chops” Post………. (for now.)

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The problem with stiff embouchures is common with trumpet and horn players possibly due to the fact that such a small amount of embouchure is actually in the cup of the mouthpiece when compared to that of a trombone or tuba mouthpiece. Coping with and/or solving this condition can be done in many ways but today I will cover two of the most common- “before and after repair”. A very good friend and super trumpet player and I visited for some time sharing ideas which have proven helpful for each of us when faced with stiff chops. Mr. Doyle Miller…

Motivation- Where Does It Come From and How Can I Get Some? Part 2

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I have found it interesting working with many musical groups each year and as I observe each ensemble I have mentally noted the results of motivated directors as well as less motivated directors. Each ensemble seems to reflect the influences of their director. The most proficient and musical ensembles will always have an energetic and inspired director on the podium. The bands which exhibit respect and professionalism in their performance will invariably have directors who reflect these same characteristics. The only exceptions were the bands who had recently replaced less than adequate directors with improved models. It will take a…

Motivation- Where Does It Come From and How Can I Get Some?

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Motivate-verb 1. inspire, drive, stimulate, provoke, lead, move, cause, prompt, stir, trigger, set off, induce, arouse, prod, get going, instigate, impel, actuate, give incentive to, inspirit His hard work was motivated by a need to achieve. 2. stimulate, drive, inspire, stir, arouse, get going, galvanize, incentive How do you motivate people to work hard and efficiently? Most teachers are familiar with this term and are striving daily to prompt this action in their students. Everyone’s life is effected by the amount of motivation they posses. If you are on the low side of this characteristic, you are said to be…

Don Smith- One Of The Greats

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Don Smith passed away February 13, 2010 after an extended battle with cancer. Don was born July 15, 1934 in Los Angeles, California. To the younger trumpet players, the name Don Smith may not register, but to the veteran musicians, the name is spoken with great reverence for this was one of the greats who played with such big bands as Les Brown and Harry James, and backed celebrities such as Ann-Margret. He also performed with the Air Force “Airmen of Note” and the N.B.C. staff to name but a few. I first met Don shortly after he moved to…

What Is The Difference Between New Orleans and Chicago Dixieland Jazz?

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What Is The Difference Between New Orleans and Chicago Dixieland Jazz? The quickest answer to that question would be 930 miles. From a musical standpoint it is much more complicated and for that reason I will try to simplify it for you. Traditional New Orleans style of Dixieland usually include these characteristics • Strong marching band history • Instrumentation which is more mobile (banjo, brass instruments, woodwinds, marching percussion (bass drum player, snare player, etc.) • Strong emphasis on all four beats • Generally a more ensemble approach to performance • Use of solo performances is limited • Literature generally…

It Could Only Happen In Branson!

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If you have ever visited Branson, Missouri, you might have enjoyed a frozen desert at Andy’s Frozen Custard. This small yet well know establishment has been praised for many years and to thank all who have supported their store, they offer free Sundays once a year. This past Saturday just happened to be the day we were treated to a free desert. The small establishment was inundated by hungry patrons. My wife and I took advantage of this kindness earlier in the day and waited in the drive through for almost twenty minutes as car after car was presented with…