Honesty Pill founder Christopher Still joined the Los Angeles Philharmonic as Second Trumpet in 2007.  Before coming to California, he was the Principal Trumpet of the Colorado Symphony. He has also held the positions of Associate Principal Trumpet of the Dallas Symphony and Principal Trumpet of the Charleston (SC) Symphony. Christopher has recorded extensively with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Grant Park, Dallas, and Albany symphony orchestras. Active in the Hollywood recording studios, he can be heard on major motion picture and television soundtracks. He is a Yamaha Artist, a dedicated educator, and an active clinician.  Honesty Pill is a project where Chris creates focused, actionable plans that help musicians and other creatives address the issues standing between them and their goals. Intermediate through professional instrumentalists and singers can benefit from Honesty Pill coaching. This includes motivated high school students, college students, serious hobbyists, and professionals of all ages and levels of accomplishment.

Episode #78 - Christopher Still - Honesty Pill

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  This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpeter and composer  Anthony Plog, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass. Come visit John and the Bob Reeves Brass crew at the  National Trumpet Competition, March 8-11th!   Anthony Plog 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:         Anthony Plog Website  Anthony Plog on Music Podcast Anthony Plog on Facebook Motivation and The Three-Tier System Blog Post                Podcast Credits                “A Room with a View“ – composed and performed by Howie Shear Audio Engineer – Preston Shepard Cover Art – Phil Jordan Podcast Host – John Snell           

Episode #117 Anthony Plog

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring lead trumpeter Dave Trigg, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass. 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.

Episode #116 David Trigg

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring jazz trumpeter/cornetist Marc Caparone, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass.   Marc 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 link.

Episode #115 Marc Caparone

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpeter Yturvides, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass.  You can follow Yturvides on the following social platforms : Youtube, Instagram,  Facebook,   X(Twitter), and Spotify. 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 Howie Shear Audio Engineer – Preston Shepard Cover Art – Phil Jordan Podcast Host – John Snell Translator - Hugo Tomas 

Episode #114 - Yturvides

This episode of "The Other Side of The Bell" is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass. Please enjoy this conversation with John and world-renowned trumpeter, Chris Botti. Chris was featured back in   Episode #24, 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 YouTube. 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 chrisbotti.com bottiatsea.com  Other Places to Listen trumpetpodcast.com bobreeves.com/spotify bobreeves.com/itunes  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

Episode #78 - Christopher Still - Honesty Pill

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