The Other Side Of The Bell - A Trumpet Podcast
This podcast contains advice for trumpet players of all levels, stories from Bob Reeves Brass, and interviews with trumpet players.
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Episode #122 Sal Cracchiolo (and Rachel Niendorf)
09/10/2024
Episode #122 Sal Cracchiolo (and Rachel Niendorf)
This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpeter, , is brought to you by . Tickets for the Youth Trumpet Scholars Trumpet Trilogy can be purchased . About Sal Cracchiolo: was born in Long Beach, California as the son of two talented music teachers. His father, Sal Cracchiolo I, owned a music studio where he taught piano and played professional accordion. His mother, Edith, was his first trumpet teacher and started Sal on trumpet at the age of 12. He played in concert, marching and jazz band in high school. By his Junior and Senior year of High School, he was attending Cerritos College playing in their jazz and concert bands. He started working as a professional musician at 15 in nightclubs with various R & B and Latin bands. In 1975 he started a long musical friendship with Poncho Sanchez, which ultimately let to 18 albums. Between working with Poncho, in the 1980s, he was a member of the Pasadena City College Big Band under the direction of saxophonist, Gary Foster. While in this band, Sal played with such jazz greats as Warren Marsh, Lee Konitz, and Peter Erskine. In the late-80s, Poncho traveled internationally. Since then, with Poncho and other acts, Sal has traveled to 45 countries globally. With Poncho, he has played and recorded with Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Hubbard, Cal Tjader, Chick Corea, Stanley Turentine, Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaria, Clare Fischer, Gary Foster, Arturo Sandoval, Eddie Harris, Joey DeFrancesco, Dianne Reeves, Justo Almario, Andy Martin, Celia Cruz and Pete Escovedo. He performed for and with these artists at the Monterey, Playboy, Concord, and Nice Jazz Festivals plus many others throughout the U.S., Europe, Canada, Mexico, South America, Thailand and Japan. He has also done worldwide tours with such artists as Tom Jones, Vicki Carr, Harry Connick and Brian Setzer. He was with the Clayton/ Hamilton Jazz Orchestra and has played with them since 2003. The CHJO has been rated as the #1 Big Band in the USA by Downbeat Magazine from 2007 to 2010. He also performing with his own sextet featuring his wife, Melanie Jackson, on vocals In 2001 “Fly” was nominated for a Latin Grammy. He has performed on the latest albums of Michael Buble, Gladys Knight, Joss Stone, Jamiroquoi, and Dr. Dre and on various sountracks for HBO. In 2001, their CD, “Fly”, was nominated for a Latin Grammy. In 2002 they performed at the Du Maurier Vancouver International Jazz Festival. In 2003 they will be performing for the warm-up for the Playboy Jazz Festival. In 2004 through 2006 Sal and Melanie’s sextet was sponsored by the California Arts Council.
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Episode #121 Imani Duhe'
08/09/2024
Episode #121 Imani Duhe'
This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpeter, , is brought to you by . You can also watch this interview on Youtube. About Imani: Imani Duhe’ is a versatile young musician from Atlanta, Georgia, known for her rich, soulful trumpet playing. Starting music at a young age, she’s been surrounded by different styles of music her entire life. Imani has performed regularly with orchestras, chamber ensembles, and in small solo settings as a trumpeter for over 12 years. Through her love for the trumpet and music she also discovered a talent for composing songs, which she performs with her ensembles. Imani has performed on podcasts, in multiple large music venues including the Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall, and The Walt Disney Concert Hall. She has had the opportunity to play for live televised events and popular music festivals and continues to make her name known as a sought-after musician. She has worked with artists such as Ms. Lauryn Hill, Ani Difranco, Daniel Pemberton, Metro Boomin, T-Pain, and more. Imani also teaches for the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles as a trumpet instructor and brass specialist and gives master classes around the greater Los Angeles area. Ms. Duhe received her Bachelors from Manhattan School of Music and her Masters at the University of Southern California.
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Episode #120 Ravi Best
07/18/2024
Episode #120 Ravi Best
This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring commercial trumpeter and vocalist, , is brought to you by . You can also watch this interview on Youtube. About Ravi: Ravi Best is a New York City based jazz and commercial trumpet player who has performed domestically and internationally for two decades. Most recently, he has been performing, recording, and touring with Kool & The Gang, Blood, Sweat and Tears, The Duke Ellington Orchestra, and Little Steven and The Disciples of Soul, where he had the chance to perform with Sir Paul McCartney, and Bruce Springsteen. He has performed with several Jazz, Rock, and R&B artists such as Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Beyonce, Jay-Z, Lenny Kravitz, Queen Latifah, Annie Lennox, Robert Cray, ani difranco, Michael Buble, Clark Terry, Tony Bennett, and Herbie Hancock. He has played in several Broadway shows such as The Heart of Rock and Roll, Merrily We Roll Along, Hell’s Kitchen, Diana, The Color Purple, Chicago, 42nd St., Sweet Charity, Annie, and several others. He has made several TV appearances playing in the house band on SNL, Jesus Christ Superstar Live, Jimmy Kimmel Live( Kool and The Gang), Good Morning America(Boyz II Men), The Today Show(Little Big Town), The Late Show(Rufus Wainwright), and The Sherri Show. Ravi was also featured in the Chris Colombus film The Christmas Chronicles. He can also be heard on many recordings such as, Kenny Garrett’s Pushing The World Away, Little Steven and The Disciples of Soul’s Soulfire Live, and Summer of Sorcery, David Byrne & St. Vincent’s Love This Giant, David Murray Octet’s Octet Plays Trane, Lester Bowie’s Brass Fantasy’s The Odyssey of Funk & Popular Music, Sam River’s Rivbea Orchestra’s Culmination, Ani DiFranco’s Evlolve, So Much Shouting, So Much Laughter, and Mya’s Moodring, The Broadway cast recordings of Jesus Christ Superstar Live In Concert, Heart of Rock and Roll, Diana, Ain’t Too Proud, 42nd Street, and Baby It’s You.
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Episode #119 Brian Swartz
05/21/2024
Episode #119 Brian Swartz
Today's episode of the Other Side of the Bell is brought to you by . Check out all the information for what the shop is bringing to the conference in Anaheim for 2024. This episode's special guest is Trumpeter Brian Swartz is a diverse musician with a wide range of influences. He has appeared on multiple Grammy® nominated and winning recordings with artists including The (Dixie) Chicks' Double Platinum "Taking the Long Way" which won 5 Grammy® Awards, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year in February 2007, John Beasley's Monk'estra which has garnered 6 Grammy® Nominations for it's 3 albums and 1 Grammy® Win for Beasley's arrangement of "Donna Lee," The Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Scott Healy's Tentet and Kim Richmond's Concert Jazz Orchestra. He has also performed or recorded with The Goo Goo Dolls, Michael Bublé, Kelly Clarkson, John Legend, Jennifer Nettles, Robin Thicke, Smashmouth, Patti Labelle, Natalie Cole, Dianne Reeves, Ivan Lins, Tom Harrell, Chucho Valdés, Brad Mehldau, Dave Douglas, Rickie Lee Jones, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, The O’Jays, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Saint Motel, Azar Lawrence, Buddy Montgomery, Joe Henry, Keb' Mo', Jackie Greene, Josie Cotton, Lisa Loeb, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Gerry Gibbs, Connie Han, Taylor Eigsti, Raya Yarbrough, Bob Florence, The Luckman Jazz Orchestra, Francisco Aguabella, JazzAntiqua, The Los Angeles Jazz Collective, Jose Rizo’s Jazz on the Latin Side All Stars and many more. Since 2005, Swartz has proudly held the trumpet chair in Oingo Boingo Former Members. Brian Swartz has released five jazz albums as a leader: "There’s Only Me" (Noir Records 2000), "Live at the Jazz Bakery" (Summit Records 2005), "Three" (Summit Records 2006) and "Portraiture" (Summit Records 2014), "To Be With You" (DistroKid 2020). As an arranger, Brian has written for his own big band, Ruthie Foster's 2021 Grammy® Nominated "Live at the Paramount," Sussan Deyhim with the Pacific Symphony, the Ron Jones Influence Orchestra and has served as staff arranger for The Luckman Jazz Orchestra, John Beasley’s Monk’estra, Oingo Boingo Former Members and the ABC TV show, "Duets." Brian's film credits include the 2012 Oscar® Winning Animated Feature "Rango," Jennifer Anniston's "The Break-Up," "The Cooler" starring William H. Macy and "Let Them All Talk" with Meryl Streep. In 2021, Brian appeared with John Beasley's Quintet on the Amazon Prime TV show 'Bosch," Season 7, Episode 1. Born December 16, 1967, Brian is a second generation trumpeter. His father, CMSgt Lawrence Swartz (1937-1992), was a 30 year trumpeter in the United States AirForce. Brian’s early exposure to music made a profound influence on him and he started playing trumpet at the age of ten in Bellevue, Nebraska. As a teenager, his family moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where he attended Armijo High School. He played all through his high school years and won many honors and accolades. He graduated from Armijo in 1986 and began his music education at Solano Community College. In 1988, he moved to Los Angeles to attend California State University at Northridge and the University of Southern California where he could further hone his craft. For five years, Brian studied with trumpet guru Bobby Shew. Bobby inspired Brian's passion for teaching and since 1997, Brian has maintained a very busy schedule of private students in the Los Angeles area and beyond. Brian also studied with John Coppola (SFO), Bill Bing (CSUN), John Thomas (USC) and LA studio legend Uan Rasey. Brian’s dedication to mastering his craft and continually building upon his knowledge has brought him to prominence in the global jazz scene.
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Episode #118 Clint Baker
04/24/2024
Episode #118 Clint Baker
This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring jazz trumpeter , is brought to you by . is a seasoned bandleader with over 40 years of experience in the music industry. Having traveled the world and shared his musical talents in both Europe and Asia, Clint has established himself as a versatile musician with a passion for jazz. Clint is currently deeply involved in music education and serves as the director of the prestigious Teagarden Jazz Camp held in Sly Park, California. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians is evident in his work with aspiring talents at this esteemed jazz camp. In addition to his educational endeavors, Clint remains an active performer in the vibrant music scene of the Bay Area. He can be found collaborating with various groups such as Nick Rossi’s swing band, Heidi Evelyn, the Hot Baked Goods, and Jessica King, where his musical prowess shines brightly. Furthermore, Clint's commitment to preserving the rich history of jazz is evident in his ongoing role as the instructor of the renowned jazz history symposium 'Jazz from the Hill'. Through this long-running program, he imparts his knowledge and passion for jazz to eager learners, ensuring the legacy of this beloved music genre endures for generations to come. Clint Baker's dedication to music, both as a performer and educator, has left an indelible mark on the jazz community, making him a respected figure and a driving force in the world of jazz music.
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Episode #117 Anthony Plog
03/07/2024
Episode #117 Anthony Plog
This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpeter and composer , is brought to you by . Come visit John and the Bob Reeves Brass crew at the , March 8-11th! has had a rich and varied international career in music—as a composer of operas, symphonic music, and chamber works; as an orchestral musician, soloist, and recording artist; and as a brass teacher and coach at some of the great music conservatories internationally and now online to students around the world. Composer The music of Anthony Plog has been performed in over 30 countries, and he has been the recipient of numerous grants and commissions. After beginning his career writing extensively for brass, he now works in many different musical forms. He has composed three children’s operas, the first of which (How the Trumpet Got Its Toot) was premiered by the Utah Opera and Symphony. He completed a major tragic opera (Spirits) based on a Holocaust theme and recently finished a new opera about a drone operator suffering a nervous breakdown (The Sacrifice). Other new works include an oratorio about the first major environmental battle in the United States (God’s First Temples), in versions for orchestra, symphonic band, and soprano song cycle; and a cantata using the stories of women who have recovered from sex trafficking, prostitution, and drug abuse (Magdalene). Musician Anthony Plog began studying music at the age of 10, and by 19 he was playing extra trumpet with the Los Angeles Philharmonic under conductors such as Zubin Mehta, James Levine, Michael Tilson Thomas, and Claudio Abbado. He has held positions with orchestras around the world, including the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, the Malmo Symphony, and the Basel Symphony, and has performed on tour with the Stockholm Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Buenos Aires Symphony. As a soloist he has toured throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, and Japan, and has numerous solo recordings to his credit. Brass Teacher and Coach Anthony Plog has taught at some of the greatest music institutions around the world, including the University of Southern California, the Music Academy of the West, and Indiana University (U.S.), as well as the Schola Cantorum (Basel, Switzerland), the Malmo Music Academy (Sweden), the Academia di Santa Cecilia (Rome, Italy), the Norwegian Music Academy, and the Freiburg Musik Hochschule (Germany). His experience teaching in a wide variety of musical cultures, in addition to his work as a composer and former player, allows him to approach teaching and coaching with a unique and fresh perspective. His Plog Program, published by Balquhidder Music, is a seven-volume method book that has been a valuable addition to trumpet methodology. His new online teaching and coaching program is creating a new paradigm for international teaching. The program allows students worldwide to study with Anthony Plog and is available to players at all levels. Besides working individually with students on every brass instrument, he coaches chamber music groups, larger brass sections and ensembles, and wind ensembles, and he guides composers in writing for brass instruments. Anthony Plog lives and works in Freiburg, Germany. Links: Podcast Credits “A Room with a View“ – composed and performed by Howie Shear Audio Engineer – Cover Art – Podcast Host –
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Episode #116 David Trigg
02/24/2024
Episode #116 David Trigg
This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring lead trumpeter , is brought to you by . Dave Trigg is a distinguished trumpeter whose career spans over four decades, marked by versatility and collaborations with some of the most iconic names in music. Starting his professional journey in 1979, Dave made a significant mark as the lead trumpeter with the Ringling Bros Circus World House Band in Florida. This early experience set the stage for a series of notable engagements, including the national tour with "Holiday on Ice" and recording with the legendary Maynard Ferguson Band in 1981, contributing to the "Hollywood" release. In the early 1980s, Dave's talent took him to the heart of entertainment at Walt Disney World in Florida, where he performed with various bands at Epcot Center and MGM Studios until 1990. His broad range of musical abilities allowed him to share the stage with luminaries such as Frank Sinatra, Whitney Houston, Quincy Jones, Harry Connick Jr., Tina Turner, and many others. Dave's Broadway credentials are equally impressive, featuring performances in productions like "Wonderful Town," "Hot Feet," "Fame Becomes Me," "Promises, Promises," "Pippin," "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Legally Blonde," "Gigi," and "Hello Dolly." The 1990s ushered in a new chapter for Dave as he joined Natalie Cole's band, embarking on global tours and performing with major orchestras, including the BBC Symphony and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. His work with Cole led to four Grammy-winning albums and numerous TV appearances on shows such as The Tonight Show and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Dave also showcased his talent on TV specials like the three Sopranos live concert and was a part of Sheila E's house band for the 1998 ALMA Awards. Dave's move to Los Angeles expanded his repertoire to include recording sessions for artists like Dr. John, Phil Collins, and Mary J. Blige, as well as soundtracks for films like "Miracle on 34th St." and "Shaft." His involvement with the Big Bands of Bill Holman, Bob Florence, and others underscored his versatility and excellence in jazz and big band music. Relocating to New York in 1999, Dave continued to dazzle at jazz festivals worldwide, including Montreux and Newport, and paid tribute to Maynard Ferguson at the New York Brass Conference. His recent performances include a gala with the National Symphony Orchestra and a featured appearance at the Salt Lake City Jazz Festival, maintaining his status as a sought-after musician for both live performances and studio recordings. Dave Trigg's illustrious career, marked by collaborations with a wide array of artists and performances across prestigious venues, underscores his enduring impact on the music industry and his mastery of the trumpet.
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Episode #115 Marc Caparone
01/30/2024
Episode #115 Marc Caparone
This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring jazz trumpeter/cornetist , is brought to you by . has been listening to classic jazz his entire life and is dedicated to keeping the traditions of the great early jazz trumpet players alive. His specialties are the jazz trumpet styles of the 1920’s and ‘30s, and he also has a deep interest in jazz history that started when he began collecting records as a teenager. Marc has performed and recorded with many groups around the world including the High Sierra Jazz Band, Hal Smith’s Rhythmakers with Rebecca Kilgore, Narvin Kimball’s All Stars, Carl Sonny Leyland, Dave Stuckey’s Hot House Gang, Dave Stuckey’s Hoot Owls, Clint Baker’s New Orleans Jazz Band, the Reynolds Brothers, The Western Swing All Stars and Barbara Dane, and with bands led by his wife, vocalist Dawn Lambeth. For several years Marc performed at Disney California Adventure as a member of the Ellis Island Boys. In addition to leading his own groups he has also put together groups to back up blues legends Little Charlie Baty and Duke Robillard. Marc is a regular member of the Holland-Coots Quintet, and Carl Sonny Leyland’s Boogie Woogie Boys and leads the Sierra Stompers and the Back O Town All Stars. In 2022 he was inducted into the Western Swing Society Hall of Fame. To grab an appointment or find out more about Bob Reeves Brass at TMEA, use this .
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Episode #114 - Yturvides
12/22/2023
Episode #114 - Yturvides
This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpeter Yturvides, is brought to you by . You can follow Yturvides on the following social platforms : , , , and . About Yturvides Yturvides Vilchez, born in Maracaibo, Venezuela in 1980, began his musical journey at age four, mastering the Venezuelan "cuatro" at the Sopotociento Cultural Center. He furthered his studies at the Jose Luis Paz music conservatory, learning both the Venezuelan cuatro and Spanish guitar. At 15, he joined the Band Show "Regina Coeli," where he developed his skills in drums, percussion, flute, and trumpet. Yturvides' talent led him to various Venezuelan groups, including Sabor Juvenile and Antañones De Mi Pueblo, under the mentorship of Jesús Amable Nieto. His musical career flourished as he joined several bands, including the Omar Enrique Merenguero Band, and participated in recordings with artists like Gran Coquivacoa and Argenis Carruyo. By 24, Yturvides was a part of "El Sonero Del Mundo" Oscar D'Leon's world-renowned orchestra, touring globally. In 2008, he joined Grupo Mania as the first trumpet and later became its musical director, contributing as an arranger. Yturvides' excellence in music extended to Puerto Rico, where he performed with salsa legends such as Ruben Blades, Gilberto Santa Rosa, and Marc Antony. He made history as the first Venezuelan musician in the National Salsa Day Orchestra under Maestro Louis García. Yturvides' career is marked by his versatile musicianship and contributions to both Venezuelan and international music scenes. Podcast Credits “A Room with a View“ – composed and performed by Audio Engineer – Cover Art – Podcast Host – Translator - Hugo Tomas
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Episode #113 Chris Botti Revisited
11/21/2023
Episode #113 Chris Botti Revisited
This episode of "The Other Side of The Bell" is brought to you by . Please enjoy this conversation with John and world-renowned trumpeter, . Chris was featured back in , and now again in Episode #113 with the release of his first album in over 10 years. A video version of this episode is also available on . About Chris Botti Trumpeter Chris Botti s renowned for his versatility in both jazz and pop music. His mother, a pianist and teacher, was his first musical influence. Botti began playing trumpet at nine and fully committed to it at 12 after hearing Miles Davis. His early achievements include performing at Carnegie Hall with the McDonald's All American High School Jazz band. During his formative years, Botti was significantly influenced by his time at Indiana University, where he studied under renowned jazz educators David Baker and William Adam. This period was crucial in shaping his musical style and approach. Botti's career took off with short touring stints with Frank Sinatra and Buddy Rich, and his relationship with Paul Simon in the 1990s further expanded his musical collaborations. Additionally, Botti's association with Sting, particularly touring as a featured soloist in Sting's "Brand New Day" tour, played a pivotal role in his career. This collaboration not only broadened his musical exposure but also significantly influenced the trajectory of his career, marking a key phase in his development as a musician.His solo debut album, "First Wish," was released in 1995, marking the start of a successful solo career. Botti's work often bridges jazz and pop, demonstrated in albums like "A Thousand Kisses Deep" and "When I Fall in Love." His album "Impressions" won a Grammy in 2013 for Best Pop Instrumental Album, a category for which he had received several nominations. Chris Botti's current projects showcase his enduring creativity and versatility as a musician, including his Blue Note Records debut, "Vol. 1," released on October 20th. This album marks a fresh start for Botti, emphasizing a return to the jazz essence of his artistry. "Vol. 1" features beautiful new ballad renditions of standards, including “Old Folks,” “My Funny Valentine,” “Someday My Prince Will Come,” and “Blue In Green.” This project signifies Botti crossing back to acoustic jazz and classic standards after achieving crossover success in both jazz and pop arenas. In addition to his new album, Botti is embarking on an innovative venture, "Botti at Sea." This luxury cruise, personally curated by Botti, promises an exceptional experience of ensemble entertainment and showmanship. Scheduled to sail from February 8 to 15, 2024, the cruise departs from Miami with stops in Aruba and Curaçao. "Botti at Sea" is set to offer a unique blend of music and luxury, further highlighting Botti's flair for combining artistic pursuits with novel experiences. Jump Ahead [0:04:16] Changes since the last podcast, focusing on Botti's decision to record a new album despite previous reservations. [0:06:22] Botti talks about his switch to Blue Note Records and working with David Foster [0:08:00] Details on the production and concept of the "Vol. One" album. [0:09:37] Conversation about the recording process of the album. [0:12:32] Botti's approach to choosing the song "Fix You" for the album. [0:14:24] Discussion on the dynamics of recording in a studio with live musicians. [0:17:22] Plans for future volumes following "Volume One." [0:20:14] Botti's live shows and the contrast between studio and live performances. [0:21:39] Chris Botti's routine and practice habits while touring. [0:24:07] Botti discusses his musical approach and practice techniques. [0:26:53] Insights into Botti's process of learning and transcribing solos. [0:29:37] Botti talks about current musicians he admires and learns from. [0:31:04] Botti's stage presence and preparation for live performances. [0:33:00] The mental and physical aspects of playing the trumpet in live shows. [0:34:07] Botti discusses the challenges and rewards of maintaining a touring schedule. [0:35:22] Reflections on Botti's decision to study at Indiana University. [0:36:50] Botti recounts his experience with Buddy Rich's band and his decision not to play in big bands. [0:39:15] Botti's career choices, including the decision not to tour with the Rolling Stones. [0:41:46] Story of how Botti started his first horn section in New York. [0:47:08] Anecdote about forming a horn section with Michael Davis and the importance of seizing opportunities. [0:52:29] Discussion about Botti's approach to live performances and audience engagement. [0:56:36] Insights into Botti's continuous inspiration for touring and performing. [0:58:55] Botti talks about his choice of musical instruments and equipment. [1:01:09] Botti reflects on his admiration for Wynton Marsalis and their meeting post-pandemic. Links Other Places to Listen Podcast Credits “A Room with a View“ – composed and performed by Howie Shear Audio Engineer – Preston Shepard Podcast Logo – Phil Jordan Video Production - Paul Peltekian Podcast Host – John Snell
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Episode #112 LA Trumpet Ensemble with Wayne Bergeron and Jeff Bunnell
11/06/2023
Episode #112 LA Trumpet Ensemble with Wayne Bergeron and Jeff Bunnell
Welcome to Episode #112 of "The Other Side of the Bell", a podcast brought to you by . In this episode, John talks with and about their recently released album called "" by the Los Angeles Trumpet Ensemble. We hope you'll enjoy their conversation as well as the album. Join us at Dillon Music, November 9-11 for valve alignments and mouthpiece consultations. Email to schedule an appointment! About the Los Angeles Trumpet Ensemble Album "Homage" The recording scene in Los Angeles has a long history of great and highly versatile trumpet playing. For the most part, though, these trumpet players rarely get a chance to be featured. In 1957, Tutti Camarata arranged and produced a record called Tutti's Trumpets that featured some of the top session trumpet players in Los Angeles at that time. That was over 60 years ago. Wayne Bergeron and Jeff Bunnell started talking about doing another recording that would feature some of the current session trumpet players here in Los Angeles. Wayne suggested recording a trumpet ensemble CD to Jeff and they loved the idea and thought a choir of trumpets would work well. With that, the Los Angeles Trumpet Ensemble came into being. In choosing the music Jeff arranged for this CD, he wanted to pay tribute to some of the film composers who are part of the Los Angeles recording scene (and who write so well for the trumpet), and also pay tribute to some of the great trumpet players of the past and present. Jerry Hey graciously wrote the arrangment for the last track, the iconic Al Jarreau tune "Roof Garden". Los Angeles Trumpet Ensemble Members Jeff Bunnell Wayne Bergeron Jon Lewis Dan Fornero Marissa Benedict Dan Rosenboom Rob Schaer Larry Hall Dan Savant About Wayne Bergeron Wayne Bergeron is enjoying a career as one of the most sought-after musicians in the world. Studio sessions, film dates, international touring, jazz concerts, guest appearances, and clinics keep him busy not only in his hometown of Los Angeles but worldwide. Born in Hartford, Connecticut in 1958, Bergeron came to California at age one. He originally started on French horn but switched to trumpet in seventh grade where he found a natural upper register ability. Bergeron credits his junior high and high school teachers, Ron Savitt and Bob Smith, for molding his talent into practical working skills. Bergeron first caught the ear of many when he landed the lead trumpet chair with Maynard Ferguson’s band in 1986. Bergeron can be heard on Maynard’s recordings of Body and Soul, Big Bop Nouveau, Brass Attitude, and The One and Only Maynard Ferguson. Bergeron demonstrates daily why Maynard remarked, “Wayne is the most musical lead trumpet player I’ve had on my band.” As a sideman, Bergeron’s list of recording credits reads like a “who’s who” in contemporary jazz and pop, running the stylistic gamut from Ray Charles to Green Day. Other names include Katy Perry, Beyoncé, Barbra Streisand, Michael Buble, Indina Menzel, Leslie Oden Jr., Herb Alpert, The Jonas Brothers, Burt Bacharach, The Dirty Loops, Seth MacFarlane, Natalie Cole, Celine Dion, Seal, Diana Krall, Tito Puente, Christina Aguilera, Dianne Reeves, Michael Bolton, Earth Wind & Fire, The Pussy Cat Dolls, My Chemical Romance, The Mars Volta, Chicago, Rosemary Cloony, Diane Schuur, Barry Manilow, Lee Ann Womack, Lou Rawls, Eric Marienthal, Kenny G., and David Benoit. Bergeron has worked on over 500 TV & motion picture soundtracks. A partial list of film credits includes Red Notice, Turning Red, Soul, Bob’s Burgers, Ford vs. Ferrari, Toy Story 4, Frozen 1 & 2, The Lion King (2019), The Secret Life of Pets, Wreck it Ralph 2, Crazy Rich Asians, Sing 1&2, Moana, Frozen 1 & 2, Get On Up, Toy Story 3, Monsters University, High School Musical 3, Get Smart, Superman Returns, The Simpson’s Movie, Dreamgirls, Hairspray, Mission Impossible 3, Ice Age 2, Spiderman 1 & 2, Team America and South Park. Bergeron’s featured trumpet solos can be heard on the motion pictures West Side Story (2021 Steven Spielberg), La La Land, Sing, The Incredibles 1 & 2, Rocky Balboa, The Secret Life of Pets 2, Rough Night, Jazzman’s Blues, Vacation Friends, Ted 2, Minions, Minions 2:The Rise of Gru, Spies in Disguise, Jersey Boys, The Green Hornet, The Interview, Despicable Me 1, 2 & 3, Duplicity, Princess & the Frog, The Perfect Game,, Hey Arnold (the movie), The Rat Pack, Child Star, Aladdin King of Thieves and High Crimes and many others. Numerous TV credits include Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, SAG Awards, NBC, ESPN & TNT sports themes, American Idol (2001-02), Emmy Awards, Grammy Awards, Animaniacs Reboot, Family Guy, American Dad, Simpson’s, Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse, The Cleveland Show, Green Eggs and Ham, Jeopardy, America’s Funniest Home Videos, Will and Grace, Phineas & Ferb, Emperor’s New School, Mouse Works, Have a Laugh, House of Mouse, King of the Hill, Futurama, Buzz Lightyear, Hercules, and Hey Arnold. Bergeron’s greatest love is playing lead in big bands. He has recorded and played with some of Los Angeles’ most respected bands including Gordon Goodwin, Arturo Sandoval, Pat Williams, Sammy Nestico, Jack Sheldon, Chris Walden, Tom Kubis, John La Barbara, Bob Florence, Joey Sellers, Ray Anthony, Bill Watrous, Bob Curnow, and Quincy Jones. After being behind the scene for so many years, Bergeron stepped out on his own with his first solo effort, You Call This a Living? This debut project earned him a Grammy nomination in 2004 for Best Large Jazz Ensemble, as well as rave reviews from fans and press worldwide. Bergeron’s second CD, Plays Well With Others, released on the Concord Jazz label in 2007, was met with the same acclaim. Bergeron’s most current (and personal favorite) CD, Full Circle, was released in January of 2016. Bergeron performs various events for the Hollywood Bowl summer season. He has done guest appearances with the L.A. Philharmonic, The New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Dallas Symphony, Taiwan Symphony, and Tokyo Philharmonic. Bergeron is a National Artist for the Yamaha Corporation of America and is co-designer of the YTR-8335LA trumpet and YFH-8315G Flugelhorn. Bergeron also designed a series of trumpet mouthpieces with Gary Radtke of GR Technologies that are available through Bergeron’s website. Bergeron was mentored by legends Uan Rasey, Bobby Shew, Warren Luening, Gary Grant, Rick Baptist, and George Graham. Bergeron hopes to inspire a new generation of young players and enjoys his work as a clinician and educator. “Nothing makes me feel more accomplished than hearing a young musician say that I inspired them or had a positive influence on their life. For me, that’s the real payday.” Bergeron is currently on faculty at California State University Northridge. Perhaps Grammy winning composer and bandleader, Gordon Goodwin said it best, “Wayne is a once in a lifetime lead trumpet player.” About Jeff Bunnell Trumpeter Jeff Bunnell has enjoyed a successful career in many musically diverse settings. He is an active member of the Los Angeles freelance performing and recording community, and has been for over four decades. The many artists Jeff has worked and recorded with include Mel Torme, Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, Natalie Cole, Michel Legrand, Johnny Mathis, Tony Bennett, Robbie Williams, Paul McCartney, Seth MacFarlane, Rosemary Clooney, Paul Anka, Lou Rawls, Barry Manilow, Dianna Krall, Frank Sinatra Jr., David Sanborn, Diane Schuur, Brian Wilson, Tom Harrell, Steve Lawrence, Maroon 5, Michael Feinstein, Debby Boone, Andy Williams, Patti Austin, Brian Setzer, Jack Sheldon, Steve Allen, Marilyn McCoo, Engelbert Humperdink and Shirley Bassey. Jeff has toured with Ray Charles, Horace Silver and Poncho Sanchez. He has performed with many of the top big bands in Los Angeles including Tom Kubis, Bill Watrous, Alf Clausen, Johnny Mandel, Bill Holman, Arturo Sandoval, Gordon Goodwin’s Phat Band, Les Hooper, Pete Christlieb, Pat Williams, Wayne Bergeron, Steve Spiegl, Carl Saunders and Bernie Dresel. He has recorded with many of these big bands including Ray Charles, Tom Kubis, Bill Watrous, Les Hooper, Pete Christlieb, Jack Sheldon, Brian Setzer, Wayne Bergeron, Steve Spiegl and Bernie Dresel. Jeff played the lead trumpet chair with the Carl Saunders Big Band, the Pete Christlieb Tall and Smail Band, and the Steve Spiegl Big Band. Currently Jeff plays one of the solo chairs with both The Tom Kubis Big Band and Bernie Dresel’s BBB. Jeff has worked with many of the orchestras in Southern California including The Hollywood Symphony Orchestra, The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, The Long Beach Symphony, The New West Symphony, The Pacific Symphony and The Pasadena Pops Orchestra. As a session player Jeff has played on hundreds of feature film and television soundtracks. His film credits of note include “Star Trek Beyond”, “Jurassic World”, “The Incredibles”, UP (Oscar winner for Best Soundtrack), and “O.J. Simpson: Made in America” – where Jeff is a featured soloist throughout the film (Oscar winner for Best Documentary Feature). His television credits include “Pennyworth”, “The Simpsons”, “Family Guy”, “Why Women Kill”, “American Dad”, “Parks and Recreation”, “Alias”, and “The Clone Wars” animated series. He has also played on hundreds of television and radio commercials, as well as the Academy Awards and the SAG Awards. As a musical theater pit musician, Jeff has played on more than 60 Broadway shows including “West Side Story”, “Phantom Of The Opera”, “Dream Girls”, “Into the Woods”, “Sophisticated Ladies”, “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Titanic”. He has studied trumpet privately with Joe Alessi Sr., Boyde Hood, Bobby Shew, Claude Gordon and Uan Rasey. Jeff is currently a faculty trumpet and jazz instructor at The Master’s University. Jeff is also a Bach Artist & Clinician. In addition to playing the trumpet, Jeff also works as an arranger, orchestrator, and conductor. He has orchestrated for film and television, as well as other areas of music such as Broadway Shows, cruise ship music and theme park music. His original big band charts can be found in the books of Arturo Sandoval, Bill Watrous, Jack Sheldon, Ron Jones, Emil Richards, Steve Spiegl and Bernie Dresel. He has published three transcribed jazz trumpet solo books through Aebersold Jazz. Links Listen to this episode online: Watch the video of this episode on YouTube:
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Episode #111 David Washburn
10/27/2023
Episode #111 David Washburn
This podcast is brought to you by Join us at Dillon Music, November 9-11 for valve alignments and mouthpiece consultations. Email to schedule an appointment! is a Yamaha Performing Artist and serves as Principal Trumpet of the . A much sought-after musician in Los Angeles, he also holds the position of Associate Principal Trumpet of the LA Opera Orchestra. He has served as principal trumpet and soloist with the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra. Active in the recording studio, David has numerous motion picture soundtracks to his credit. He has played principal trumpet for Incredibles 2, Coco, A Quiet Place, Spider-Man Homecoming, War for the Planet of the Apes, xXx: Return of Xander Cage, 10 Cloverfield Lane, Independence Day – Resurgence, Godzilla, The Amazing Spider-Man, The Karate Kid, Avatar, The Legend of Zorro, Troy, A Beautiful Mind, Windtalkers, The Perfect Storm, Titanic and Deep Impact. He has also been part of the John Williams trumpet section for over 20 years and has performed on the soundtracks of Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. David is a member of the faculty at Biola University and Azusa Pacific University. He has held teaching positions at the University of California Irvine, Chapman University, California State University Northridge, California State University Long Beach, University of Redlands, Idyllwild Arts Academy and the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. David received his Master of Music, with distinction, from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston and his Bachelor of Music from the Thornton Music School at the University of Southern California. His trumpet instructors have included Rob Roy McGregor, Robert Nagel, John Clyman and Joan LaRue. David has been a featured soloist with many different orchestras, including the Los Angeles, St. Louis, Knox-Galesburg, Hong Kong and California Philharmonics; the Los Angeles, San Diego and South Bay Chamber Orchestras; the Berkeley, Burbank and Glendale Symphonies; and the New York String, University of California Irvine and Pasadena Pops Orchestras. He has also been featured with the New York Chamber Music Society at Lincoln Center, as well as at the Santa Fe, La Jolla and Music@Menlo Chamber Music Festivals. In 2018, David performed the Bach Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 as well as the Telemann, Albinoni and Haydn Trumpet Concertos with the Lincoln Center Chamber Music Society, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and the Knox-Galesburg Symphony. In the summer, David performs at the Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival in Orcas Island, WA; Mainly Mozart Festival in San Diego, CA; Music@Menlo Chamber Music Festival in Menlo Park, CA; and the SummerFest Chamber Music Festival in San Diego. David was also part of the inaugural Chamber Music Festival at the Green Music Center in Sonoma, CA performing Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in 2015. Listen to this episode online:
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Episode #110 - Mike Price
10/05/2023
Episode #110 - Mike Price
Mike Price is a professional trumpet player, formerly living in Tokyo, Japan. He composes and performs with the Mike Price Jazz Quintet or Orchestra. Originally from Chicago Illinois, he was a student of Vincent Cichowicz (Chicago Symphony Orchestra) while getting a degree from Northwestern University. Following 3 more years studying jazz composition at Berklee School of Music , he toured with the Stan Kenton Orchestra followed by touring with Buddy Rich. Mike played 1st trumpet for both bands. (1967- 1970) Back in Los Angeles in 1972 Mike was an original member of the Toshiko Akiyoshi/Lew Tabackin Big Band, touring Japan many times before moving to Tokyo in 1989 for an NEA/U.S.- Japan Friendship Commission Artist exchange program grant. After conclusion of the grant period, he joined the Sharps & Flats Orchestra led by Nobuo Hara, staying with this band until the leader’s retirement. During this time, Mike formed a jazz quintet in 1993 and a big band in 1999, both becoming active participants in the Tokyo jazz scene. The big band had its first concert to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Duke Ellington’s birth with a rare performance of the “Such Sweet Thunder Suite,” alternatively known as the “Shakespearian Suite.” The orchestra’s activities continued with new projects such as the Miles Davis/Gil Evans “Miles Ahead,” “Porgy & Bess Suite,” “Tribute to Frank Sinatra,” “Tribute to Buddy Rich,” Ellington’s “Far East Suite,” “ A Tribute to Gerald Wilson,” with whom Mike worked in Los Angeles before going to Japan. During the early 2000’s, Mike was introduced to Detroit jazz singer, Harvey Thompson, with whom a collaboration began. Many performances followed with Harvey being featured with both Mike’s quintet and big band. In 2011 Mike recorded a CD with his Tokyo Quintet with all original compositions. “Presenting the Mike Price Jazz Quintet In Tokyo.” Twenty five years after arriving in Japan, after Hara san’s retirement, Mike has returned to home ground in Los Angeles forming the American version of his quintet and orchestra with some of LA’s top jazz musicians. Throughout his performing career, Mike has a parallel commitment to teaching. Before going to Japan, he graduated with a Master’s Degree from University of Southern California with the help of a teaching assistantship in Jazz Studies. Shortly afterwards he received a California Community College Instructor Credential. There have been many private students in addition to band clinics and performances for high schools, universities, and community bands oth before and while living in Japan. Notable in this was an 18 year contract with Hamamatsu Public Schools to teach elementary, middle school, and high school students brass instrument instruction and fundamentals of jazz ensemble performance. Also, there was a 9 year contract to teach beginning trumpet classes at the elementary level and private lessons through high school to students at St. Maur International School in Yokohama, Japan. Links:
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Episode #109 - Bill Bing
09/27/2023
Episode #109 - Bill Bing
has recently retired as Director of Bands and Artist in Residence at the California Institute of Technology. During that time, he conducted over 250 concerts with the Caltech Jazz and Concert Band. He also served on the undergraduate admissions committee and was named an outstanding teacher by the students from Caltech Bill and his wife Delores have won many teaching awards including the Associated Students of Caltech Teaching Award, Pasadena Youth Music Council Teacher of the Year, and most recently Honorary Membership in the Caltech Alumni Association. For ten years he was a member of the Los Angeles Opera Orchestra, and for five years he was a performer with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. He has published two method books for trumpet. Students that have studied with Bill have played with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day, Reel Big Fish, Poncho Sanchez, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Pacific Symphony, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and many other classical, rock, and jazz ensembles. His clinics and concerts have received rave reviews by other band directors from junior high school through the college level. For his clinic, Bill emphasizes sound, and from there, balance, intonation, and style. Links
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Episode #108 - Chris O'Hara
09/07/2023
Episode #108 - Chris O'Hara
is an internationally renowned trumpet soloist, a chamber musician, and educator. His playing is described as “virtuosic and impressive in every way” (Chicago Music Examiner), and “a treat beyond measure” (Arlington Advocate), and the International Trumpet Guild Journal hails him as a “true master of [the] instrument.” Already in his young career, Chris has performed over 3,000 featured artist events covering 48 states and 12 countries across North America, Europe, Great Britain, and Asia. His performance schedule has taken him to notable venues such as the Italian Brass Week, Ravinia Music Festival, the Tanglewood Music Festival, the Norfolk Music Festival, the Festival de Camara de Musica in Aquacalientes Mexico, the Nagoya Conservatory of Music, the Newport Music Festival and Millennium Hall in Japan. Chris currently serves as Adjunct Professor of Trumpet at Elmhurst University and Concordia University. Chris is a clinician for Conn-Selmer Company and Denis Wick and has presented countless master classes and clinics at public schools and the world’s finest colleges and universities. He can be heard on recordings on the Paraclete and AAR labels. His latest releases, johann sebastian BACH with organist Mark Engelhardt, On Tour, Vol. 1 with the Alliance Brass, and the award-winning Now, O Now with the Illumine Trio can be found on the Rowjack label. His performances have also been broadcast on NPR, NBC, WGN, the Hallmark Channel, and more. Chris serves as Adjunct Professor of Trumpet at Elmhurst University. You can find Chris on his and , as well as his music on
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Episode #107 - Courtney Jones
08/17/2023
Episode #107 - Courtney Jones
The newest directions in 21st Century trumpet performance are being explored and defined by Courtney Jones, an award-winning Bach performing and recording artist who has also emerged as a leading figure in contemporary performance and pedagogy, conducting, and service to inner-city youth through music outreach programs. An artist who transcends stylistic boundaries and in high demand as a clinician and adjudicator, Courtney has performed with classical ensembles and orchestras throughout the United States, internationally, and has won multiple solo awards and accolades through regional and national trumpet competitions. This journey began in Jones’ hometown of Columbus, Georgia. While earning his Bachelor of Music degree at Columbus State University, Courtney performed with various Columbus State University ensembles and recorded with artists such as Jens Lindemann, Joseph Alessi, John Bruce Yeh, and the Columbus State University Wind Ensemble under the Naxos Music label. While completing his Master of Music degree in Trumpet Performance at Shenandoah Conservatory in Winchester, Virginia, Courtney studied under the instruction of J. Carlton Rowe, former Principal Trumpet of the “President’s Own” United States Marine Band, Craig Fraedrich of The U.S. Army Blues, and performed as Substitute Principal with the Loudon Symphony Orchestra of Leesburg, Virginia. He also had additional studies with Steve Hendrickson of the National Symphony Orchestra Courtney conducted his doctoral studies at UCLA under the instruction of international soloist and former lead trumpet of the Canadian Brass, Jens Lindemann. During his time at UCLA, Courtney worked as a Teaching Associate for lecture courses and provided weekly lessons for university trumpet students under the direction of Lindemann. Winner of a Gluck Fellowship, Jones was then selected as the conductor of the UCLA Brass Ensemble during the latter part of his residency. His musicological research during this period explored 21st Century ideological and transcendental concepts of performance practice focusing on a lesser-known contemporary work of composer Frank Ticheli, The First Voice for Solo Bb Trumpet. The intention of this dissertation was to broaden the technical capabilities of 21st century performers and shed light on the ideological and philosophical foundations of Ticheli’s composition. While the study is largely analytic and interpretive, the main purpose and goal is to help modern trumpet players develop more confidence in performing Ticheli’s music and other contemporary compositions in related genres. Before completing his doctorate, Courtney was appointed as the Visiting Assistant Professor of Trumpet at the Voxman School of Music at the University of Iowa. During his two-year residency Jones served as the Principal Trumpet for the Iowa Faculty Brass Quintet, taught Graduate Brass Pedagogy and Literature, and served on recital and graduate committees. He was asked to lead the University’s top performing Jazz Ensemble (director on leave) and produced an engaging performance concert by the University’s Brass Ensemble (which had previously been inactive for a number of years) to showcase the importance of Brass Bands as an engaging training ground for solidifying technical and pedagogical facility for brass players. In addition to his applied obligations, Courtney performed with Orchestra Iowa, the Dubuque Symphony, and gave solo performances with both the Cedar Rapids Municipal Band and New Horizons Band. One of which was the Midwest Premiere of Kim Scharnberg’s Travelogue for Eb Trumpet. Besides performing with well-known jazz and popular artists, he has shared the stage with famous artists or groups such as Kenny Burrell, B.B. King, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Rihanna, Lalo Schifrin, Vanessa Williams, Boy George and The Culture Club, Jennifer Cox, and Stevie Wonder. In addition to his solo performance career, Courtney has performed with the Golden States Pop Orchestra, the Southeast Symphony Orchestra, the Macao Orchestra (China), the Pasadena Orchestra, the Debut Orchestra, the Inspiravi Chamber Orchestra, the Gateways Festival Orchestra, the Orchid City Brass Band, the Oslo Philharmonic (Norway), the Long Beach Opera, the Chamber Singers of Iowa City, the Salt-River Brass Band, the Gateways Brass Collective, and most recently had his Carnegie Hall and Metropolitan Art Museum performance debut this past May in New York. His feature film and television credits include music performed for “Glee,” “Notes from Dad,” “Cougar Town,” and “Criminal Minds” among other productions listed under the media tab of his website. Prior to his appointment at Florida Atlantic University as the Assistant Professor of Trumpet & Artistic Director of Jazz and Chamber Ensembles, Jones was a Lecturer of Music at Columbus State University while recording his Solo CD project, “Between 2 Worlds,” at the Joyce and Henry Schwob School of Music. Between teaching and solo performing engagements, Dr. Jones has and continues to promote music education and instrumental performance in inner-city schools through the Music Outreach Program at UCLA, The Harmony Project of Los Angeles, Trumpets 4 Kids in Dallas, Texas, and the Nat King Cole Generation Hope, Inc. Each of these programs offers schoolchildren art-in-education opportunities. These programs are essential because they provide underserved, inner-city students, and communities with musical training and mentorship that would otherwise be inaccessible.
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Episode #106 - Marissa Benedict
07/27/2023
Episode #106 - Marissa Benedict
Marissa Benedict was born in San Francisco, California and raised in Marin County where she started playing piano at age 7, violin at age 9 and trumpet at age 10 (studying with Joe Alessi, Sr.). She continued playing all three instruments until graduating from high school and moving to Los Angeles to attend USC, earning a Bachelor of Music degree in Trumpet Performance (June 1984), studying with Boyde Hood. Marissa is the Assistant Professor of Trumpet at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Before leaving for Minnesota she was a freelance trumpet player in Los Angeles for 34 years. She is currently principal trumpet for The Pasadena Symphony/Pasadena Pops and plays regularly with the Minnesota Orchestra, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and Los Angeles Master Chorale. Marissa recently performed and recorded Mahler’s 8th symphony in the Minnesota Orchestra’s Mahler Project, played for Charles Lazarus’ CD Merrier and Brighter (2022), Jack Stamp’s Chamber Music Volume 1 (released July 2023), and the Los Angeles Trumpet Ensemble’s Homage (release: August 2023), featuring eight of the top trumpeters in Southern California. She also toured with the L.A. Philharmonic on their “Boston to London” 2018 tour, and on 2019 tours to Asia and Scotland. She played for the 2019 Academy Awards (Oscars®) and recorded Celebrating John Williams with the L.A. Phil under the direction of Gustavo Dudamel. A very active and in-demand studio player, she can be heard on nearly 160 motion picture recordings, including Spider-Man No Way Home, Avatar 2: The Way of the Water, Lightyear, Incredibles II, Spider-Man Far from Home, Coco, Moana, Rogue One, Spider-Man, Homecoming, Indiana Jones IV, Avatar, The Polar Express, Spider-Man 2, Monsters, Inc., and War of the Worlds. Her television studio recording credits include Star Trek : Discovery, Star Trek: Enterprise, Star Trek: Voyager and Deep Space Nine, JAG, Commander in Chief and Galavant. Marissa’s current trumpet studio consists of 16 trumpet students (Undergraduate, Master’s degree and Doctoral of Musical Arts), ranging from Bachelor of Arts, Music Ed, Music Performance, double majors of Computer Science/Performance and MuEd/Performance. All of her graduated MuEd and Performance majors are currently teaching music and/or performing in the Minneapolis area. She continues to recruit and give masterclasses and special guest performances throughout the Twin Cities and across the US and remains very active in the community.
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Episode #105 - Roy Wiegand
07/04/2023
Episode #105 - Roy Wiegand
Roy Wiegand is a versatile and renowned trumpet player in the Los Angeles area. He has toured and performed with such well-known acts as The Who, Bobby Womack, Tom Jones, Mel Torme, Harry James Orchestra, and Wayne Newton. Roy has also shared the concert stage with artists like Shakira, Michael Bolton, Jeffery Osborne, Amy Grant, Matchbox 20, John Tesh, Carly Simon, and Art Garfunkel. Roy has also worked in the Hollywood studios playing on various recording sessions for motion pictures and television, including The Nutty Professor, the theme for America’s Funniest Home Videos, and countless commercial jingles. Roy is also an active member of the freelance scene in Los Angeles for over 40 years, covering many different styles from Jazz, Dixieland and big band, to production shows, and first trumpet in the Desert Symphony for over 20 years. In addition to his trumpet performance prowess, Roy is a very active athlete, participating in many competitive endurance running and cycling events as well many runs/rides for various charitable causes.
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Episode #104 - Keith Snell
06/18/2023
Episode #104 - Keith Snell
Keith Snell has pursued a multifaceted music career as a trumpet soloist, freelance musician, composer/arranger, conductor and educator. His earliest musical training and performance experiences began at the age of six when he began learning to play the cornet in the Los Angeles Congress Hall Salvation Army Band. Keith performed with this world renown organization for twenty years for over twenty years. Keith received his B.A. from the California State University at Northridge and his M.A. from California State University at Long Beach. Both degrees were in Trumpet Performance and Instrumental Conducting. Keith has served on the faculties at the California State Universities at, Los Angeles, Northridge and Long Beach as well as at the California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo. As a freelance trumpet player, Keith has played numerous chamber and symphony orchestras, including the Pacific Symphony, Pacific Opera and the Burbank Symphony Orchestra. He has also performed on a variety of recordings for radio, motion picture and television soundtracks. As a solosist, Keith has performed solo recitals in both the U.S., Canada and Great Britain. Keith was one of the founding members of the California Brass Ensemble, and served as its Director for 24 years. Comprised of some of the worlds’s finest professional brass and percussion artists in Los Angeles, the ensemble presented over 3,000 concerts and educational performances. This award winning ensemble performed at such prestigious events as the 1984 Olympic Arts Festival in Los Angeles and before many international dignitaries, religious leaders and heads of state, including five U.S. Presidents, and the Arch Bishop of Canterbury. A prolific arranger and composer, Keith served as editor for several series of educational publications by Belwin Mills, Columbia Pictures Publications, and Alfred Music Publishers. His works are also published by Theodore Presser and Warner-Chappell. Keith’s works for brass have been performed by professional ensembles and symphony orchestra brass sections in over 44 countries.
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Episode #103 -Neal Berntsen
06/15/2023
Episode #103 -Neal Berntsen
Neal Berntsen joined the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra trumpet section in March 1997, having been appointed at the invitation of Music Director Lorin Maazel in 1996. He is a native of Tacoma, Washington. He began his musical studies at age five playing the violin under the tutelage of his mother. By age eight he advanced to the trumpet and ultimately received a B.M. from the University of Puget Sound and a M.M. from Northwestern University. A former member of the Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra and the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra, Neal has also performed as Principal trumpet for the Ravinia Festival Orchestra, Chicago Chamber Orchestra, Cincinatti Symphony Orchestra, San Diego Symphony Orchestra and the Bamberg Sinfoniker in Germany. Other orchestral performances have included the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra and Houston Symphony Orchestra. Active as a chamber musician, Neal is a member of the Pittsburgh Symphony Brass whose recordings, “BACH: THE ART OF FUGUE” (1998), “A CHRISTMAS CONCERT” (2000), “THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS” (2003) and “A SONG OF CHRISTMAS” (2008) were described as “...Awhirl with color and rhythmic vitality – quite irresistible on every count.” by the Pittsburgh Post- Gazette. The recordings contain numerous arrangements by Neal Berntsen. Mr. Berntsen is also a founding member of the award-winning Asbury Brass Quintet, about which Fanfare magazine stated, “Not only expert but musical...undeniable virtuosity.” The ABQ’s recording with Adolph Herseth is widely regarded as an all time classic. Mr. Berntsen has toured Japan with members of the Chicago Symphony brass section as the Chicago Brass Soloists. In 2017 Mr. Berntsen gave the Pittsburgh premier of James MacMillan’s concerto for trumpet, Seraph performing with the Resonance Works Orchestra with the composer in attendance. In the summer of 2015 Mr. Berntsen premiered and recorded THE ANCIENT CALL for micro-tonal trumpet and orchestra written by Iranian-American composer Reza Vali under the baton of Keith Lockhart. Mr. Berntsen performed the piece on a specially modified trumpet, which enabled him to execute the Persian quarter tone scale. In 2018 his recording of THE ANCIENT CALL was named album of the year in Iran by Noise Magazine. Mr. Berntsen’s solo recording TRUMPET VOICES was released in Nov. 2005. Critics describe the recording as, “Electric... An indispensable recording for anyone who appreciates great trumpet playing.” As an educator, Mr. Berntsen is Chair of the Brass Division in the School of Music at Carnegie Mellon University. Mr. Berntsen also serves on the Faculty of Roosevelt University in Chicago. Mr. Berntsen has presented master classes and recitals around the world. In summer 2009, Neal Berntsen began an association with the Brevard Music Center in Brevard, North Carolina. Mr. Berntsen serves as Principal Trumpet for the Brevard Music Center Orchestra, performs chamber music, teaches trumpet and coaches chamber music at the festival.
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Episode #102 - Christine Kamau
05/09/2023
Episode #102 - Christine Kamau
Christine Kamau is a Trumpeter, Composer and Performing Artist from Kenya. Her Trumpet playing has been described as 'a wide-eared approach to jazz, paying attention to various styles without losing the jazz tonality'. Kamau credits her musical influences to Hugh Masekela, Maroon Commandos, Miles Davis among others. In 2012, Christine Kamau released an 8-track instrumental Afro-Jazz album titled 'This is for You'. The album offers an exciting listening experience, the music being a fusion of jazz with African music elements of ‘Benga’ and Rhumba’. This debut release earned positive reviews from the music community and also saw Kamau featured on a BBC music program titled ‘Africa Beats’ a series that showcased emerging music talent from Africa. A keen collaborator and campaigner for music as a tool for propagating unity, and having graced various stages around the continent, Christine Kamau has established a name on the African Jazz scene.
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Episode #101 - Greg Spence and Julie Baxes
05/03/2023
Episode #101 - Greg Spence and Julie Baxes
From playing lead trumpet at Carnegie Hall in New York to presenting for The International Trumpet Guild Conference, Yamaha Artist Greg Spence, has “been there and done that,” on the world’s biggest stages as a performer and educator. After publishing two top-selling books and the WindWorks course, Greg now spends his life sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with the members of the WindWorks Trumpet Academy. After being on the brink of giving up from years of frustration, Greg has developed a revolutionary approach to playing that has transformed the lives of 1,000’s of brass players worldwide. Julie Baxes is an amateur trumpet player who began her music journey as a pianist, performing with church choirs, in small ensembles and for weddings and other special occasions. She picked up trumpet in her mid 40s and has studied with a variety of teachers over the years, most recently working exclusively with Greg Spence for the past 3 years. Julie has performed with the Jeffco Community Band, Jeffco Brass, and the Rocky Mountain Brassworks, a British-style brass band that performs in metro area venues. She began experiencing obvious symptoms of musician’s focal dystonia about 6 years ago. These migrated from rehearsals and performances to lessons and, eventually, the practice room, requiring her to leave her performing groups. Fortunately, she reconnected with Greg Spence after briefly studying with him previously. Together, they have been extensively researching musician’s focal dystonia, recording hundreds of session hours and developing comprehensive, effective recovery strategies. As a result, Julie has made remarkable progress toward her return to rehearsals and gigs. Julie has worked in the marketing communications and public affairs field for more than 30 years as a writer, editor, public speaker, staff manager, marketing and public affairs strategist, and special events manager. She holds a BA in journalism and a marketing minor from Arizona State.
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Episode #100 - Tony Kadleck
04/05/2023
Episode #100 - Tony Kadleck
Trumpeter/composer/arranger/bandleader/educator Tony Kadleck is one of the most sought-after trumpet players on the New York City scene, and has been for some time. He moved to NYC in 1986, following his studies at the New England Conservatory–and a stint in the trumpet section of The Buddy Rich Big Band–and his phone has been ringing ever since. For good reason; at every turn, Kadleck puts the music first, and more than takes care of business. He graduated from the Manhattan School of Music in 1989 and quickly hit the road with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisand, Blood Sweat & Tears, and others. Eventually, Kadleck was in such high demand locally, for studio and stage work, that touring took a back seat. He played on countless jingles, scores for TV and film, and worked with the cream of the crop, including Luther Vandross, Michael Jackson, Elton John, Celine Dion, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, Issac Hayes, and most recently Steely Dan, Tony Bennett/Lady Gaga, Santana, Weezer, Steve Tyrell, and many, many others. In addition to an on-going abundance of freelance sideman work with NYC’s A-list artists, Kadleck is currently a member of many organizations, including the New York Pops, John Pizzarelli’s “Swing Seven”, the Maria Schneider Orchestra, John Fedchock’s NY Big Band, and can currently be heard on Broadway in the band for “MJ”. To say that Kadleck is a rare bird is a major understatement. Possessing the expertise, musical acumen, phrasing, range, chops, and the desire to handle gigs as diverse as the New York Pops and The Who (for example) with straight-ahead professionalism and excellence is not common. His prowess now bears fruit on his own project, Sides (to be released on Marshall Gilkes’ Alternate Side Records on February 10, 2023), which follows up his previous big band album, Around The Horn, and his debut as a leader, Extended Outlook.
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Episode #99 - Sarah Belle Reid
03/01/2023
Episode #99 - Sarah Belle Reid
Sarah Belle Reid is a performer-composer who plays trumpet, modular synthesizer, and an ever-growing collection of handcrafted electronic instruments. Her unique musical voice explores the intersections between contemporary classical music, experimental and interactive electronics, visual arts, noise music, and improvisation. Often praised for her ability to transport audience members through vivid sonic adventures, Reid's sonic palette has been described as ranging from "graceful" and "danceable" all the way to "silk-falling-through-space," and "pit-full-of-centipedes" (San Francisco Classical Voice). Reid holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts from California Institute of the Arts, with a research focus on the development of new electronic instruments and musical notation systems as interfaces for exploring temporal perception and co-creation. Her debut album for trumpet and interactive electronics, "Underneath and Sonder," was released on pfMENTUM in October, 2019. In March 2021, she released an electroacoustic EP titled “MASS”, featuring trumpet, voice, electronics, and amplified objects. Show Notes for this episode can be found
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Episode #98 - David Krauss
02/01/2023
Episode #98 - David Krauss
David Krauss is the prodigious host of Speaking Soundly, Co-Founder of ANM, and Principal Trumpet of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. As a soloist, he has performed with the All-Star Orchestra on their Emmy Award-winning PBS broadcast and was praised by the American Record Guide for his "singing tone, which is luxurious and inviting." He has performed as guest Principal Trumpet with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra, and New York Philharmonic, as well as recorded for film and television, and played on several Broadway shows. David is a highly sought-after instructor at the Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music, Mannes School of Music, Aspen Music Festival and School, and other top conservatories and music festivals throughout the United States.
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Episode #97 - Larry Meregillano
01/11/2023
Episode #97 - Larry Meregillano
Larry Meregillano is a Eclipse artist/clinician. He started his professional career playing in big bands in San Diego in the early 1970’s. In 1976, he was hired to play in Tom Ranier’s Show band at Disneyland. A year later, Mr. Meregillano joined the gospel group Truth and soon after went on to perform and tour with The Bill Gaither Trio. While traveling and recording with The Bill Gaither Trio, he also recorded with Sandi Patti, David T, Clydsdale, Ron Huff, Don Marsh and many others. In 1980, Larry returned to California and became the lead trumpet player for the world-famous Disneyland Band. In the late 1980’s, Larry was hired to play in the PTL Television Orchestra with Jim and Tammy Faye Baker. From there he joined Princess Cruise lines as Musical Director. After many years, Mr. Meregillano moved to Orlando, Florida, where he performed with many bands at Walt Disney World, MGM Studios, Epcot Center, Universal Studios and Pleasure Island. He has also been the Musical Director and performer for many cruise lines including the world-famous Queen Elizabeth 2. Larry has toured with the Temptations and The Four Tops, and has been a sideman for Rosemary Clooney, Joe Williams, Jack Jones, Bob Hope, Celia Cruz, Frankie Avalon and many, many others. Mr. Meregillano has recorded with many artists including Hubert Laws, Latoya Jackson, and Rick Dees. Mr. Meregillano is a busy freelance musician playing recording dates, theater, and stage shows in the Los Angeles area and around the country.
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Episode #96 - Bobby Medina and Paul Baron
12/05/2022
Episode #96 - Bobby Medina and Paul Baron
Body Mechanics Mastery Course Two years in the making, this is the most comprehensive trumpet course on the net! For all levels of players from beginners to seasoned pro's. Whether you're a soloist, lead player, symphonic, jazz, commercial or other, you'll learn the science behind total mind body integration resulting into amazing sound, musicality, range, endurance, tonguing, fingering, pedal tones, intonation, flexibility and much more. This specialized training pulls back the curtain so you learn easily through bite sized videos. The 19 modules and 175+ videos take the mystery out of trumpet playing and immediately insures to get you on the road to success. This program is not only endorsed by numerous world class professional trumpeters but also by players just like you! About Bobby Medina Four solo recordings under his name along with world tours and live performances with legendary musical artists including Ray Charles, Frankie Valli, Wayne Newton, Mel Torme, Temptations, National Touring Broadway shows and more. Student of legendary teachers including James Stamp, Bobby Shew, Carmine Caruso, Charley Davis. Medina's 40+ years experience has been presented at masterclasses in the USA, Europe, South America and Asia helping players of all levels overcome their playing deficiencies and frustrations through specialized mental and mechanical techniques. About Paul Baron Paul's professional career began 40 years ago. His lead trumpet can be heard on over 1,000 jingles, hundreds of albums, dozens of movie scores and he's played, recorded and toured with Aerosmith, Lynrd Skynrd, Barry Manilow, Bob Hope, Wayne Newton, nearly twenty Broadway shows including Disney's Newsies, Aladdin, Frozen and many more. Paul's teaching has led him to give nearly 100 masterclasses and decades of private instruction teaching players how to repair and reprogram their playing to be the most efficient possible.
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Episode #95 - Lasse Lindgren
09/27/2022
Episode #95 - Lasse Lindgren
Lasse Lindgren works as a jazz musician, trumpet player, composer, rehearsal leader, bandleader and lecturer. Ever since Louis Armstrong’s unique trumpet voice captured my ear at the age of five, I have tried in different ways to express myself with my own individual voice on the trumpet, an instrument I was given at the age of eight. I was born in 1962 in Gothenburg, Sweden. I studied at the music departments of the high schools of Ljungskile 1980–81 and Ingesund 1981–83 and at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm 1984–86. Lasse Lindgren worked busily as a freelance jazz-and-lead trumpeter during his years as a music student and in the years following during the ‘80s when he lived in Stockholm. The first band under Lasse’s own leadership was called “Outfront” and this was followed by another that among its activities toured with valve-trombonist and composer Bob Brookmeyer. Lasse then started a family and moved to Sandviken, working as jazz-and-lead trumpeter with Sandviken Big Band 1989–1997. He also performed in the same role with Bohuslän Big Band 1991–1997 and in the following years with the Danish Radio Big Band (later “Jazz Orchestra”) 1997–2000. In recent years he has diversified and let go of the world of employment in order to pursue his more personal dreams. The Lasse Lindgren Constellations come in a wide variety of settings and possibilities. Learn more about Lasse: Learn more about Ullvén Mutes: Learn more about Bob Reeves Brass:
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Episode #94 - Mary Elizabeth Bowden
02/01/2022
Episode #94 - Mary Elizabeth Bowden
Classical Trumpeter Mary Elizabeth Bowden has built a rapidly ascendant career as a soloist, praised for her “splendid, brilliant” playing (Gramophone Magazine) and the clarity, purity, and power of her sound. A Gold Medal Global Music Award Winner, Opus Klassik Nominee, and Yamaha Performing Artist, Mary has also worked to establish a new repertoire for the trumpet through creative, collaborative commissioning projects and award-winning albums. Her upcoming season includes additional performances of the Fung concerto with the Santa Fe Symphony, Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra, Shenandoah Conservatory Orchestra, and San Diego State University Orchestra. Mexican composer Gina Enríquez Morán has been engaged to write a concerto for Mary to be premiered by the World and European Brass Association. Bowden is slated to perform Ellen Taaffe Zwilich’s American Concerto with the Las Vegas Philharmonic in 2022. She will also make her debut in Turkey with a performance of Lowell Lieberman’s concerto alongside the Izmir State Symphonic Orchestra. Bowden will also embark on a five-week tour with the Kassia Ensemble, performing a program of trumpet and string quartet arrangements featuring both core classical and contemporary works. Mary has released two recordings on Summit Records: her debut album, Radiance (featuring new American works), and her second solo album, Rêverie with the Kassia Ensemble. Rêverie was featured as one of the Top Albums of the Year for the Global Music Awards and on Textura Magazine’s Top Ten Classical Albums of the Year. In addition to her acclaimed performances of core classical repertoire, Mary has worked to build a new repertoire for her instrument through performances of contemporary works, as well as commissioning projects with composers such as James Stephenson, Rene Orth, Catherine McMichael, Joseph Hallman, and an upcoming recording featuring works by Reena Esmail, Tyson Davis, Vivian Fung, Sarah Kirkland Snider, and Clarice Assad. Among her many creative projects, Mary is a founding member and artistic leader of Seraph Brass, an ensemble of America’s top female brass players that was awarded the 2019 American Prize in Chamber Music and has performed around the world. The group’s debut album, Asteria, released on Summit Records, won the Silver Medal Global Music Award, and they performed on part of Adele’s 2016 North American tour. Mary earned her Bachelor of Music degree from The Curtis Institute of Music, and her Master of Music degree from the Yale School of Music. Learn more about Mary Bowden: Learn more about Bob Reeves Brass:
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Episode #93 - Vinnie Ciesielski
09/15/2021
Episode #93 - Vinnie Ciesielski
Attending Towson University in Maryland,Vinnie Ciesielski majored in music performance on trumpet, which he has played professionally for over 50 years. Since coming to Nashville in 1992, Vinnie has played on over 6000 recordings with artists such as Lady A, Lacy Kaye, Dave Barnes, Lance Neilson, Jeremy Lister(Street Corner Symphony) Fame Gang, Lyle Lovett, Travis Tritt, Tracy Byrd, Smokey Norful, Tanya Tucker, Glenn Frey, T.D. Jakes, Byron Cage, Little Milton, Marvin Sapp, Jill Scott, Hezekiah Walker, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bad Company, Gregg Allman, Kirk Franklin, Queen Latifah, Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Israel Houghton, Demi Lovato, Grace Potter, Delbert McClinton, Alison Krauss, Taylor Swift, The Clark Sisters, Thomas Rhett, Nuno Betencort, Marcus Scott(Tower of Power) Steven Tyler, Vince Gill, Michael MacDonald, Keb Mo, Johnny Taylor, Bobby Blue Bland, Via Con Dios, Martina McBride, Don Was, Zac Brown band, Foy Vance, Terri Clark, Chely Wright, Stevie Nicks and many more. He has performed live with artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Kid Rock, Keith Richards, Jimmy Buffett, Paul Simon, Sting, Tony Bennett, Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Kenny Rogers, Shelby Lynne, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The O’Jays, Aretha Franklin, Percy Sledge, Shawn Colvin, Eddie Floyd, Booker T. and the MGs, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Bob Hope, Frankie Valli, Sheryl Crow, Adrian Belew, Bruce Hornsby, Michael Macdonald, Carrie Underwood, Jenifer Nettles and The Beach Boys. He has also appeared on The Tonight Show, Late Night with David Letterman, Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Kimmel, The Road, SoundStage, Disney and Universal TV specials, Nashville Now, Music City Tonight, Austin City Limits, Grand Old Opry, Rosie O’Donnell, Ellen’s Really Big Show, The Dove Awards and The Stellar Awards. Vinnie has also performed on numerous Radio, Internet, TV and Movie sound tracks and Trailers. Vinnie has performed with the Nashville Symphony, Chattanooga Symphony, Orchestra Kentucky, Nashville and Knoxville Jazz Orchestras Well known in the performance and recording community, Mr. Ciesielski’s resume includes work on over 6000 recording sessions, 50 Grammy-nominated and 25 Grammy-winning recordings and dozens of Stellar and Dove awards. Vinnie has also been the horn arranger on multiple Grammy, Dove and Stellar nominated and winning recordings. Learn more about Vinnie Ciesielski: Join Positive Trumpet Players Worldwide: Learn more about Bob Reeves Brass:
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