Trumpet Vybes

Woody Shaw is commonly known as the "last great innovator" in the jazz world of trumpeting but isn't he so much more? Possibly the most under appreciated artist of his time Woody was a wizard of jazz improvisation while remaining a humble example to others. Multi-instrumentalist and producer, Michael Alexander Burton, joins me today as we discuss Woody Shaw's legacy while sharing a little bit of his experiences in the industry.

Have you ever come across someone who left a lasting impact? This episode is a quick story of one who did just that during my trip to New York with Good Shot Judy. Join the investigation as I go down a rabbit hole of mystery and musical discovery. Did I just meet the legendary jazz pianist, John Lewis?

Who's name comes to mind when you think of the trumpet? If you haven't heard of Clifford Brown by now you should and this is the best place to start! Duane Smith joins the podcast to discuss the legacy, the tragedy, and influence that Brownie left behind. Smith is an amazing trumpeter, promoter, and businessman and he brings all of that knowledge to the table. Let's get to it!

Teacher and performer, Jordan Webb, joins us for today's talk on the circular breathing technique. The technique is commonly used by wind instrumentalist and has been a thing since the 13th century! Learn how Jordan acquired the skill and how you can implemented it into your playing.

Back with another season! This episode is a personal one as I detail my journey from the operating table BACK to my trumpet. Not much more to say other than it was a hell of a ride full of enlightenment and self discovery as a musician, artist, and trumpeter. I definitely lost my mind just in time!

The final part of the Trumpet Vybes summer series featuring the extraordinary trumpeter, Larry Hart! Larry has been an awesome guest for the podcast as he brings so much knowledge to the table for any beginning trumpet player! This is the final episode of season 1 so be sure to check out the past episodes and become a patron to listen to all of the uncut versions!

Part 2 of my interview with the knowledgable Larry Hart. This episode is for the first time buyers of trumpets.

Larry Hart joins us on this latest episode about MOUTHPIECES! Which is the best size for you? What brand should be your go-to? If you are a student/parent looking to buy their first trumpet before the fall this is the episode for you. This is part 1 in a summer series about growing into your instrument.

Have you been estranged from your trumpet and let doubt keep you from coming back? It's never too late to hop back on the horn and our guest, Richard Schmitt will show you how it's done! Rich comes from a family of musicians and found himself in the same situation where circumstances pushed him away from his trumpet. Time and time again Rich found his way back and he's here to share his story with you!

The trumpet community. . .is it or has it ever been a toxic place to learn the horn? Trumpeter Christopher Stanley joins us to discuss experiences coming up in the industry and how it shaped our views of playing the trumpet.

Have you ever marched in college? This episode is for those of us who experienced their undergraduate degrees, or even graduate degrees, marching for a historically black college or university (of HBCU). What elements make those experiences differ from attending any other institution? Are there any setbacks when it comes time to perform at your first gig with the pros?  Fellow Norfolk State University alumnus, Manuel Hernandez, and Prairie View A&M University director of bands, Dr. Timmey Zachery join me to answer these questions and more on today's episode.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

No, time has not sped up and you're not going crazy! This is a new kind of episode called Trumpet Vybes (TV) Quickies where I'll give you short and sweet information that will prep you for the next interview in the Trumpet Vybes series! Today, I'm setting you up for our next topic, Playing Trumpet at an HBCU.  Become a patron on my NEW Patreon page www.patreon.com/ewillzmusic where you can be an OFFICIAL PATRON for just $1! Help me grow this podcast so I can discuss more topics and subjects with trumpeters from all around the world.

Its a new year and you know what that means...TIME TO PRACTICE YOUR STANDARDS! This month Ellis welcomes his mentor and professor from his time at Norfolk State University, Dr. Timmey Zachery.  Dr. Zachery is the current head director of bands at Prairie View A&M University out of Texas and he's here to give us some insight on how to choose the best tones for your growth in the jazz genre or any genre for that matter.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

This week we welcome Hampton Roads' veteran trumpeter, Mark Oates, to the show.  Mark and Ellis discusses the benefits of playing trumpet in the church as well as some tips on how to be a better fit in cases where you may not have the right tools to work with.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Its the FIRST episode of Trumpet Vybes! This episode, I have a special guest from RVA and a soon-to-be legend, Mr. Kayen Wilborn from the 9-piece hip-hop funk band, Weekend Plans.   We discuss how the pandemic has affected musicians, specifically trumpet players, and how he managed to find opportunities to grow on his horn as well as artistically.   --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app