bone2pick

B2P 027 - Chris Gekker presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Wed, 31 Dec 2014 12:16:13 -0800

I first became aware of the great Chris Gekker as a student at the Eastman School of Music. His impeccable reputation had lived on at the school well after he departed. I went on to have the distinct pleasure to work with Chris many times on a great variety of projects in New York. His musicianship and versatility have astounded me every time we have played together. In addition to his exceptional playing, he is one of the most sought after teachers in the world of brass. Having the opportunity to interview Chris for bone2pick was an invaluable lesson in itself, one that I am most grateful for. I hope you enjoy this insightful exchange with a truly exceptional artist.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Hailed as the most recorded trumpet player in the chamber music medium, Chris Gekker was as a member of the American Brass Quintet for 18 years, as well as principal trumpet of the Orchestra of St. Lukes and the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. He is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music where he received the coveted Performer’s Certificate and is currently the Professor of Trumpet at the University of Maryland. He has served as guest principal trumpet of the New York Philharmonic and San Franciso Symphony and has performed and recorded with a range of musical luminaries including Sting, Billy Joel, Peter Gabriel and Wayne Shorter.

B2P 026 - Gene Pokorny presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Tue, 30 Dec 2014 08:00:28 -0800

I first worked with Gene Pokorny when he played on my CD, Brass Nation. His playing was sublime and he was an absolute pleasure to work with. Everyone, and I do mean everyone, says the same thing about Gene: the greatest musician to ever pick up a tuba and the greatest guy you’d ever want to be around. I’m grateful that Gene also played on my New Brass CD, as well as collaborating with me on the 20 Minute Warm-Up for Tuba. Every time I see Gene or get to work with him, it’s inspiring. This interview was no exception. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Gene Pokorny is widely considered the finest tuba player in the world today. He has been a member of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and it’s state of the art brass section for the past 23’years. A native of Southern California, Gene previously held positions in the Saint’Louis Symphony, Utah Symphony and Israel Philharmonic. He has toured and recorded worldwide as a solo artist and has released three solo CDs.

B2P 025 - Chuck Findley presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 09:00:40 -0800

Chuck Findley is one of my heroes. The Wall Street Journal front page, feature article on Chuck from the early ’80s hung on my college dorm room wall for a year. He has set the standard for what it means to be a studio musician for five decades. I first met Chuck and heard him live at a Manhattan Transfer recording session in Los Angeles in 1983, a session that also featured Jerry Hey, Gary Grant, Bill Reichenbach and Charlie Loper. It changed my life as a brass player. Years later, I was fortunate to get Chuck to play on my Brass Nation and Trumpets Eleven CDs. His playing took those projects to another level, as it always does. I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did!

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Chuck Findley is arguably the most recorded trumpet player of all time. Highlights of his remarkable career include the legendary flugelhorn solo on the Carpenter’s mega hit Close To You, George Harrison’s Concert for Bangladesh, years with Johnny Carson and Jay Leno on the Tonight Show and recordings with Frank Sinatra, Steely Dan, Toto, Joni Mitchell, the Rolling Stones, Al Jarreau, Elton John, Tina Turner and Miles Davis to name just a few. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, he came to national prominence at the age of 18 when he joined the Buddy Rich Band as the featured trumpet soloist.

B2P 024 - Ben Baldanza presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 17:38:40 -0800

I had the great pleasure of meeting Ben Baldanza last summer online when he ordered my Shires signature trombone through Hip-Bone Music. After several emails and a few more orders of books and arrangements, I felt like I was a friend of Ben’s. Ben and I have kept in touch regularly over the past year and we finally met in person when we recorded this interview in the spring. From the moment I met Ben, I felt like I was reunited with an old friend. Ben is extremely bright and forward thinking, very open and candid, and exceptionally generous and giving. My kind of guy! I hope you find this interview to be as helpful and educational as I did.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Ben Baldanza started off with the goal of becoming a trombone player, changed course, and ended up reaching the apex of business success becoming the CEO of Spirit Airlines. Along the way, Ben received degrees from Syracuse University and Princeton University. Ben’s professional experience has included positions at American and Continental Airlines, UPS, Grupo TACA and U.S. Airways. He has been happily married to his wife Marcia for 25 years and is the proud father to his violin playing son Enzo.

B2P 023 - Tom Bones Malone presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 22:26:06 -0800

I have had the pleasure of knowing Bones Malone for the better part of 30 years. When I first moved to New York in the mid-80s, Tom was kind enough to send me in on some much needed gigs to sub for him. I’ve always been grateful to him for those opportunities. Tom’s exemplary musicianship has been obvious to everyone who has ever played with him. On top of this musical excellence, he possesses the rare quality of being an individual you always look forward to seeing and hanging with. Thanks Tom for everything!

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Tom “Bones” Malone is one of the most successful New York brass players of all-time. He has been a member of the CBS Orchestra for over 20 years. He was an original member of the Saturday Night Live band and served as it’s musical director for 4 years. He was a member of the original Blues Brothers band and as a studio musician, he has played on over 1,000 records, 3,000 radio & tv commercials and 4,000 tv shows. Tom has released 2 CDs as a solo artist and is active worldwide as a clinician.

B2P 022 - Randy Brecker presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sun, 30 Nov 2014 22:13:02 -0800

Randy Brecker has been a hero of mine since I heard my first Brecker Brothers album back in the ’70s. His playing and writing changed the way I approach music, as it has for hundreds of other musicians. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to play on one of Randy’s solo records, as well as having him play on several of my projects. It is our good fortune that Randy took time out of his busy schedule to share his thoughts about music and his astounding career. Enjoy!

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Randy Brecker, simply stated, is a musician’s musician. A virtuosic instrumentalist, internationally acclaimed composer and five time Grammy award winner, Randy’s impact on the jazz world and the New York music scene is immeasurable. The Brecker Brothers, the band he co-founded with his late brother Michael, is one of the most important and influential bands in the history of jazz fusion. Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, Jaco Pastorius, Eric Clapton, Frank Zappa, Art Blakey, Charles Mingus and Joe Henderson are just a few of the hundreds of artists he has toured and recorded with.

B2P 021 - Tony Kadleck presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 09:32:38 -0800

I have had the great pleasure of knowing and working with Tony Kadleck since the 1980’s. He is an exceptional musician, virtuosic instrumentalist and one of the true gentlemen of the music industry. Our time together with Frank Sinatra will always bring back some of my most favorite memories. It continues to be an honor and an inspiration to work with Tony whenever I am fortunate enough to have the opportunity. We had the pleasure of recording together a couple months back on James Taylor’s upcoming CD and Tony was his usual impeccable self. Check out his new big band CD Around the Horn as soon as you can. You won’t be disappointed! Thanks Tony for being such a great friend musically and personally all these years.

—Michael Davis
Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

New York City’s busiest brass player, Tony Kadleck has toured, recorded and performed with a who’s who of the music industry including Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, Michael Jackson, Steely Dan, James Taylor, the Boston Pops, Maria Schneider, Bob Mintzer and Ron Carter. He has performed on hundreds of motion picture soundtracks, jingles, television themes and Broadway shows. He is on faculty at the Manhattan School of Music and Montclair State College in New Jersey. Tony recently released his critically acclaimed debut big band CD Around the Horn.

B2P 020 - Triton Brass presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 08:00:40 -0700

I have always been a fan of great brass quintet playing. From my days in college and being a part of my own quintet, I have total admiration for the rare individuals who can make a quintet happen on the professional level. I first heard Triton Brass in 2011 at the Boston Conservatory and realized immediately that they are that rare collection of individuals. It was a pleasure to sit down with Stephen, Andrew, Shelagh, Wes and Angel and find out the secret to their success. Enjoy!

—Michael Davis
Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Triton Brass has established itself as one of the preeminent brass quintets in the world of contemporary classical chamber music. Prize winners at the prestigious Lyon and Fischoff international chamber music competitions, Triton has performed and recorded worldwide and is currently in residence at the Boston Conservatory. They have recently released their self-titled, debut CD which has already garnered both critical and popular acclaim.

B2P 019 - Conrad Herwig presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sun, 12 Oct 2014 21:11:40 -0700

I first heard Conrad Herwig in 1982. I had never heard the trombone played like that before and it scared the crap out of me while totally inspiring me at the same time. It still inspires me every time I hear him play now over 30 years later. I have had the good fortune of working with Conrad many times over the years including several years with Frank Sinatra’s band in the early ‘90s and on my own CDs, Absolute Trombone and Absolute Trombone II. He’s been a constant source of inspiration and hero to me for decades. I’m honored to call the great Conrad Herwig my friend.

—Michael Davis
Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

One of the most respected and influential trombonists of the past 30 years, Conrad Herwig has released 23 CDs a solo artist and garnered three Grammy Award nominations from those recordings. He has appeared on over 200 CDs as a featured sideman most notably with Miles Davis, Joe Henderson, Eddie Palmieri. Joe Lovano, Jack DeJohnette and Tom Harrell. He is chair of the jazz studies department at the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University and is active worldwide as a clinician and guest artist. Conrad plays Michael Rath trombones exclusively.

B2P 018 - Gary Grant presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Fri, 01 Aug 2014 08:00:51 -0700

I first heard Gary Grant in person at a Manhattan Transfer record date in LA in 1983. He was playing with Jerry Hey’s unbelievable horn section. That session changed my musical life in many ways. I was immediately struck by the power of Gary’s playing, but also his musical sensitivity. Simply stated, Gary is one of the most passionate musicians I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. That passion comes through in everything he does as a player and as a producer. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have played with Gary and grateful that he took the time to share his thoughts and insights with all of us.

—Michael Davis
Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Gary Grant is one of the most respected and recorded trumpet players of all time. His motion picture and television credits include The Bodyguard, Goodfellas, Forrest Gump, Austin Powers, Men In Black, The Simpsons and the Academy Awards. His CD credits read like a who’s who of popular music and include Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Earth Wind & Fire, Al Jarreau and Toto, among hundreds of others. He is a Grammy award winning producer and has released two CDs as a solo artist.

B2P 017 - Bill Watrous presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 08:00:51 -0700

The first two records I bought with my own money were Bill Watrous’ Manhattan Wildlife Refuge and Maynard Ferguson’s Chameleon. I got home from Tower Records in San Jose and immediately put on Bill’s record. His legendary cadenza on Fourth Floor Walk Up changed the way I looked at the trombone and what was possible on the instrument. Bill had that kind of impact on virtually every trombonist of my generation. I had the good fortune to go on to play with Bill many times after that initial jaw dropping introduction and his playing has remained a constant source of inspiration for us all.

—Michael Davis
Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Widely considered one of the most virtuosic and technically brilliant trombonists of all-time, Bill Watrous has recorded over 25 CDs as a solo artist and appeared on hundreds of others as a featured sideman. He has received a myriad of awards throughout his illustrious career, including winning both the Down Beat critics poll and readers poll. He has toured and recorded with a wide variety of artists including Quincy Jones, Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman, Ten Wheel Drive, and Kai Winding.

B2P 016 - Lew Soloff presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sun, 20 Apr 2014 20:46:08 -0700

As a youngster, before I ever thought of picking up the trombone, I was a fan of the great band Blood Sweat & Tears. In addition to how much they utilized the horn section in their music, there was one trumpet solo I was particularly drawn to. That solo was Lew’s classic statement on Spinning Wheel. I have been fortunate to go on to work with Lew dozens and dozens of times in a variety of musical settings. It has always impressed and inspired me how passionate Lew is every time he picks up the horn. No more so than when he added his musical signature to my composition Zach Attack on the Brass Nation CD. Cheers to you Lew for the musical inspiration you have given all of us over the years and for sitting down with me to talk about your extraordinary career.

—Michael Davis
Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Lew Soloff has sculpted a distinguished career that is as diverse as it is acclaimed. His iconic solo on the Blood Sweat & Tears late ’60s classic Spinning Wheel is one the most recognizable trumpet solos ever recorded. During the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s, Soloff established himself as one of the all-time premier New York studio musicians, recording with everyone from Barbra Streisand to Frank Sinatra and adding his signature sound to a myriad of motion picture soundtracks and thousands of television commercials. The past two decades have found Lew following his true musical passion and becoming one of the most in demand artists on the intense New York jazz scene. His performance and recording credits include Miles Davis, Gil Evans, Ornette Coleman and Joe Henderson, to name just a few. He has recorded 8 CDs as a solo artist.

B2P 015 - Steve Turre presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Mon, 10 Mar 2014 22:05:50 -0700

I was first introduced to Steve Turre’s playing in the late 1970’s when he was a member of the groundbreaking Woody Shaw quintet. I have always been and always will be a rabid fan of the great Woody Shaw. When he added Steve to his quintet to replace the saxophone, I was hooked. Since then I have followed Steve’s inspiring and remarkable career with admiration and respect. I was honored that he shared his exceptional musical creativity on my Absolute Trombone CD in 1997 and am thrilled that he was willing to sit down with me for this interview. Enjoy!
—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Steve Turre has forged one of the most creative, inventive and innovative careers in the history of jazz trombone. He has toured and recorded with a virtual who’s who of jazz including Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey, Woody Shaw, McCoy Tyner, Cedar Walton and Ray Charles. Sixteen CDs to his credit as a solo artist, Steve has also been a member of the Saturday Night Live band for the past 30 years.

B2P 014 - Peter Erskine presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sun, 16 Feb 2014 23:08:50 -0800

There may be a few drummers past or present as good as Peter Erskine, but there are none better. He is the finest musician residing behind a drum kit that I have ever been fortunate enough to play with. I had the pleasure of sharing the bandstand with Peter for a week this summer in Tokyo with Bob Mintzer’s incredible big band. It was an honor to sit down with Peter to discuss his approach to playing, his career and leading a musical life.
—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Peter Erskine defines the word virtuoso. Musically and technically, his sublime musicianship has graced over 600 CDs. He has toured and recorded with everyone from Steely Dan to Stan Kenton, Weather Report to the Berlin Philharmonic, Diana Krall to Joni Mitchell, and Maynard Ferguson to Vince Mendoza. He is professor of percussion at USC’s Thornton School of Music and is the founder/creator of fuzzymusic.com.

B2P 013 - Dan Gordon presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 21:55:59 -0800

I am honored to consider Dan Gordon one of my oldest and best friends. We’ve known each other since we were teenagers playing together in the California Youth Symphony. Our friendship has grown over the years, as has his mega successful brewing company, Gordon Biersch. He has been a tremendous supporter of my music and of Hip-Bone Music over the years, no more so than when he made the trip to New York to play on my Absolute Trombone II CD. (Check him out on CRB’s 76 Trombones!) Thank you Dan for your friendship, support and constant inspiration. You are a star, my friend!

—Michael Davis Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

about the artist:

Dan Gordon has earned a reputation for being one of America’s premier brewing engineers during his 20 year tenure at Gordon Biersch Brewery. He personally supervises the 114,000 square foot state of the art brewing and bottling facility built in 1997 in San Jose, CA. Dan is the first American in more than 40 years to graduate from the prestigious five year brewing program at the world renowned Technical University of Munich. He frequently lectures at the Stanford University Graduate School of Business, the Anderson School of management at UCLA and the University of San Francisco. Dan is the creator of the trademarked and widely popular Gordon Biersch Garlic Fries.

B2P 012 - Dick Nash presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sun, 01 Dec 2013 21:09:41 -0800

Dick Nash is the epitome of a top call studio musician. He can play any style of music at the highest level, anytime, anywhere. One of the most recorded trombonists in the history of the instrument, his illustrious career has spanned over six decades. I was honored that he was willing to play on my Brass Nation CD back in 2000. I'm equally honored today to feature Dick as our bone2pick artist of the month. I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did.

—Michael Davis Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Growing up in Boston and attending the BerkleeCollege of Music, Dick Nash received his first professional work in 1947. After a stint in the Army, Dick spent the better part of a year touring with the great Billy May band and then moved to L.A. to begin what would become one of the most successful careers any trombonist has ever achieved. He was Henry Mancini’s favorite trombone player and was featured on the soundtracks of Mr. Lucky, Peter Gunn, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and The Days of Wine and Roses, to name just a few.

B2P 011 - Joe Alessi presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 23:06:27 -0700

I have been a big fan of Joe Alessi since I was in high school. Joe and I both grew up in the bay area and he was already a star by the time he was in high school. We’ve gone on to work together many times in New York on motion picture soundtracks, television commercials and even a few Hip-Bone Music projects. It is always an inspiration and a tremendous motivation to play with Joe. He plays at the highest level every time he picks up his instrument and his presence makes everyone around him better. There may be some as good, but there are none better than Joe Alessi. I’m honored to have been able to share this time with him and gain some insight into his extraordinary life and career.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Joe Alessi has been the
pre-eminent orchestral trombonist in the world for over 3 decades. He was appointed Principal Trombone of the New York Philharmonic in 1985 and has recorded over a dozen solo CDs. He has had numerous pieces written for him, including the Pulitzer Prize winning Christopher Rouse Trombone Concerto. As professor of trombone at the Juilliard School, he has placed numerous students in orchestras around the world and also founded the Alessi Seminar, an intensive program for the highest level in trombone playing.I have been a big fan of Joe Alessi since I was in high school. Joe and I both grew up in the bay area and he was already a star by the time he was in high school. We’ve gone on to work together many times in New York on motion picture soundtracks, television commercials and even a few Hip-Bone Music projects. It is always an inspiration and a tremendous motivation to play with Joe. He plays at the highest level every time he picks up his instrument and his presence makes everyone around him better. There may be some as good, but there are none better than Joe Alessi. I’m honored to have been able to share this time with him and gain some insight into his extraordinary life and career.

B2P 010 - Bob McChesney presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 22:08:36 -0700

I first met Bob McChesney in 1985 when we were both part of Paul Anka’s outstanding touring band. It took me about half of one rehearsal to realize that he is a true virtuoso of the trombone. We spent about a year and a half together on Paul’s band and being around Bob was definitely one of the best parts of the gig. He is a constant source of inspiration. Bob’s recordings, videos and books have reached legendary status in the trombone world. I’m honored to call Bob my friend and am grateful to him for sitting down to do this interview and for inspiring all of us who strive to improve on the trombone everyday. Enjoy!

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Simply stated, Bob McChesney is one of the greatest trombone players ever. Mark Isham has described him as “a master of the trombone”. Eddie Daniels calls him “the best jazz trombone player I’ve heard to date”. His myriad of recording credits include Barbra Streisand, Ray Charles, Shakira, Rod Stewart, Michael Buble, Natalie Cole, Diana Krall, the Simpsons and Family Guy, to name just a few. In addition to his seminal solo recordings and videos, Bob is one of the pre-eminent jazz educators and is active worldwide as a soloist and clinician. He is a prolific author and has penned the industry standard Doodle Studies and Etudes.

B2P 009 - Bergeron and Martin presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sun, 01 Sep 2013 21:45:58 -0700

I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Wayne Bergeron and Andy Martin for many years. I first became aware of Andy Martin when we were in high school back in the ‘70s in California. He was a legend even then. As it was back then, it is always an inspiration to hear Andy play. I’m honored that he performed on my Brass Nation and Absolute Trombone II CDs. I first met Wayne Bergeron when he was a member of Maynard Ferguson’s great big band. As you might suspect, he was a standout even amongst a section of stellar trumpet players. I had the pleasure of working with him several years ago as a guest artist/clinician at Mandan High School in North Dakota. Hearing him talk about his approach to brass playing and music in general, I felt like I was the one receiving the clinic. I learned a ton from being around him for those few days. I hope you enjoy this interview with two of the most talented brass players I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Wayne Bergeron and Andy Martin are two of the most in-demand session players in L.A.’s ultra competitive music scene. They have played on hundreds and hundreds of CDs, television shows and motion picture soundtracks. They are both internationally acclaimed solo artists—Andy having released twelve albums as a leader, and Wayne receiving a Grammy nomination for his first solo effort You Call This A Living. Wayne and Andy are both Yamaha performing artists and are active worldwide as guest soloists and clinicians.

B2P 008 - Gilkes and Keberle presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 21:45:40 -0700

I have been a big fan of Marshall Gilkes and Ryan Keberle since I first heard them about 10 years ago. It’s been a delight to see them carve out immensely successful careers in this ever changing profession of music. I consider them to be two of the most innovative players of any generation. While I love nothing more than to sit down with a legend of the brass world, I also find it enlightening and inspiring to hear the ideas and thoughts that future legends have. I hope you enjoy hearing Marshall and Ryan’s fresh and unique perspectives.

p.s. In the next couple months, Hip-BoneU will be releasing two exceptional lessons given by Marshall and Ryan. Incredible stuff that is not to be missed!

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Marshall Gilkes has been voted a “Rising Star” each of the past four years in DownBeat magazine’s annual critics poll. He has released three critically acclaimed CDs, the latest being the 2012 release Sound Stories. He is a member of the WDR Big Band in Cologne, Germany and the Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra. Marshall is active worldwide as a soloist and clinician.
A graduate of both the Manhattan School of Music and the Juilliard School, Ryan Keberle has achieved critical and popular success both as a trombonist and a composer. His three solo CDs have garnered rave reviews including his latest release, Catharsis—Music is Emotion, featuring his compositions for piano-less quartet. He is a member of the Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra and is the director of jazz studies at Hunter College in New York City.

B2P 007 - Phil Myers presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Mon, 01 Jul 2013 22:04:27 -0700

I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Phil Myers for over 20 years. We’ve played together on countless recording sessions in New York, as well as playing together on my Brass Nation and New Brass CDs. It’s very easy to admire and be in awe of Phil’s virtuosity, but in a business that doesn’t always reward candor and honesty, Phil’s openness has been equally impressive and inspiring. Phil has dealt with every aspect of what it is to be a principal wind player in a major symphony orchestra. I am very grateful to him that he generously shared his knowledge and emotions in this interview.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Phil Myers joined the New York Philharmonic as Principal French Horn in January 1980 and made his solo debut with the Orchestra that month in the premiere of WilliamSchuman’s Three Colloquies for French Horn and Orchestra. Phil began his orchestral career in 1971 as principal horn of the Atlantic Symphony in Halifax, Nova Scotia and followed that with positions in the Pittsburgh Symphony and Minnesota Orchestra. Phil Myers plays Engelbert Schmid French horns.

B2P 006 - David Taylor presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 22:08:11 -0700

I have known and worked with Dave Taylor for over 25 years. Safe to say, we’ve had our ups and downs over the years and haven’t seen eye to eye on very many things. That said, we’ve done a lot of great playing together over those years and in the process, I’ve learned a great deal from Dave. He has forged one of the most distinguished careers ever by a bass trombonist. I have the utmost respect for his accomplishments and contributions to the brass world. I hope you enjoy this open and honest interview.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Dave Taylor has performed and recorded with everyone from Pierre Boulez to Thad Jones, Duke Ellington to the Rolling Stones, Miles Davis to Quincy Jones, Frank Sinatra to Leopold Stokowski, and Gil Evans to Barbara Streisand, to name just a few. He is active worldwide as an internationally renowned soloist and has commissioned a myriad of solo works for the bass trombone. In addition to his prolific work as an instrumentalist and soloist, Dave Taylor is on the faculty of both the Manhattan School of Music and Mannes College.

B2P 005 - Bill Reichenbach presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Wed, 01 May 2013 22:04:08 -0700

I had the pleasure of meeting Bill Reichenbach at the Eastman School of Music in 1982. He came back to school as a guest artist when I was a student and was already one of my heroes. His virtuosity and consummate musicianship continue to inspire all who are fortunate enough to work with him or hear him play. I had the pleasure of collaborating with Bill on three CDs, Bonetown, New Brass and Brass Nation. His presence took those projects to a level they would not have attained without him. Like they always say about basketball legend Larry Bird, Bill simply makes everyone around him better. It was a treat to talk with Bill about his incredible career. Enjoy!

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

A virtuosic instrumentalist, gifted composer/arranger, inspired educator and dynamic conductor, Bill Reichenbach’s illustrious career has spanned an impressive four decades. Bill moved to Los Angeles in 1975 and has since played on over 900 records, 600 motion picture soundtracks and countless TV shows and jingles. He has recorded with Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, Al Jarreau, Earth Wind & Fire, Aerosmith, Toto, Elton John, Frank Sinatra, the Yellowjackets and Leonard Bernstein to name just a few. He has penned arrangements for HBO, Fox and Showtime, among others.

B2P 004 - Boston Symphony Trombones presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 13:35:39 -0700

I had the distinct pleasure of being the guest artist at this year’s Brass Bash at the New England Conservatory in February. In addition to working and performing with the very talented students of NEC, I was extremely privileged to perform one of my pieces with the BSO trombone section, as well as performing my Trombone Institute of Technology with Jim Markey. Days later, I’m still jazzed from the opportunity to play with these great artists. Toby, Steve and Jim are off and running as they begin to form a dynasty section in Boston. The next time you’re in their fair city, treat yourself to a BSO concert and hear some of the finest low brass playing anywhere on the planet.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
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About the artist:

The Boston Symphony Orchestra trombone section is comprised of Toby Oft, Steve Lange and Jim Markey. Within the span of 5 years, these 3 virtuosi replaced the legendary section of Ron Barron, Norm Bolter and Doug Yeo and have already begun to establish their own elite status. All three are supremely talented instrumentalists, soloists, clinicians and educators. Active worldwide as solo artists and chamber musicians, they all hold positions at the famed New England Conservatory of Music.

B2P 003 - Phil Smith presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 22:07:44 -0800

I have had the incredible pleasure of working with the great Phil Smith on numerous recording sessions in New York, as well as many of my Hip-Bone Music projects. Every time I hear him play, I feel totally inspired and gain a sense of clarity about what a brass instrument should sound like. He possesses, without question, the finest trumpet sound I have ever heard. His virtuosic musicianship is not limited to his sound. His sense of pitch, rhythmic feel and musical flexibility are simply as good as it gets. It is a humbling experience to work with someone as great as Phil, but fortunately for all of us who have, he is also a consummate gentleman and makes everyone around him feel good musically and personally at all times. I’m honored that he took the time to share his thoughts about his extraordinary life and career.

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
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About the artist:

Phil Smith is the preeminent orchestral trumpet player in the world today. He was appointed co-principal trumpet of the New York Philharmonic by Zubin Mehta in 1978 and assumed the principal position in 1988. He is a graduate of the Juilliard School and while a student there, was appointed to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra by Sir Georg Solti in 1975. Mr. Smith appears regularly throughout the world as a soloist, recitalist and clinician. An avid brass band enthusiast, he has been guest soloist with numerous bands, including Black Dyke Mills.

B2P 002 - Chris Botti presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 22:07:32 -0800

Meeting Chris Botti for the first time in 1984, I had the distinct impression that he was destined for greatness. Chris is one of the most inspiring, intelligent, driven and talented individuals I have ever known. Working with Chris has made my own career better than it could have been without that association. He’s a trailblazer in everyway and continues to forge ahead with arguably the most successful career in the history of brass playing. I am grateful to Chris for sitting down with us this month to discuss his incredible vision, motivation and musicianship. I hope you enjoy this inspiring and energizing interview..

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Chris Botti is the #1 selling jazz artist in the world today. He has had three #1 selling jazz albums on the Billboard chart, he has received a cluster of Grammy nominations and has sold over 3 million albums worldwide. He has toured and recorded with everyone from Sting, Paul Simon, James Taylor, Herbie Hancock, Steven Tyler, Yo Yo Ma, Andrea Bocelli, David Foster and Joni Mitchell, to name a few. Through the release of his 12 solo albums, Chris Botti has established himself as one of the most important and innovative figures of the contemporary music world.

B2P 001 - Bob Mintzer presented by Hip-BoneMusic

hipbonemusicpr@gmail.com (Michael Davis) — Sat, 01 Dec 2012 22:07:21 -0800

I've had the pleasure of knowing and working with Bob Mintzer for over 25 years. Simply stated, he is one of my heroes. I will never forget hearing the first incarnations of Bob's big band at Seventh Avenue South in the 1980s. They were some of the most electrifying and inspiring nights of music I have ever experienced. Bob continues to inspire all who hear him and are fortunate enough to play his music. I am honored and grateful to have been a member of his big band for the past two decades. It was a pleasure to sit down with Bob last month to discuss his incredible career and his approach to music and life. Enjoy!

—Michael Davis

Hip-BoneMusic
www.hip-bonemusic.com
www.facebook.com/hipbonemusic

About the artist:

Bob Mintzer is the quintessential musician's musician. A virtuoso instrumentalist, internationally acclaimed composer/arranger and inspiring educator, Bob brings new meaning to the term triple threat. He has been a member of the Yellowjackets for over 20 years, lead his own Grammy award winning big band for 30 years and has recently assumed the position of Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. Bob has penned hundreds of big band and small group compositions, as well as authoring nearly 20 books. His recording and touring credits reads like a who's who and includes Art Blakey, Jaco Pastorius, Gil Evans, Buddy Rich, the New York Philharmonic, James Taylor, Queen and Donald Fagan.