This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet educator, performer and composer Dr. Christopher Keach, is brought to you by <a href="https://bobreeves.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bob Reeves Brass</a>. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "<a href="https://youtu.be/l9fYz7yJ7yI" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dr. Chris Keach Trumpet Interview</a>" <a href= "https://bobreeves.com/blog/dr-chris-keach-trumpet-interview-the-other-side-of-the-bell-165" target="_blank" rel="noopener">And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here</a> --- How do you apply vocal warmup and training techniques to trumpet playing? And what if it unlocks an entire new approach to practice and pedagogy? Dr. Chris Keach traces his path from a young Long Island trumpet student to college professor at the Crane School of Music, after studying at Crane and McGill University in Montreal, and reflects on how teaching, performing, and research have all shaped his journey. The vocal training techniques he learned along the way, such as jaw and tongue mobility, vowel concepts and nasal feedback, have helped him open up his sound and stamina, and give him further tools to help his students. We chat about shifting from lead jazz trumpet to classical solo work, choosing graduate studies, landing a college teaching job before finishing his doctorate, and why creating new music matters for the trumpet community. Chris began commissioning more original music after realizing how much trumpet repertoire repeats the same works, and wanting to expand the literature with new and diverse voices. His current and upcoming projects include trumpet and electronics, flugelhorn solo repertoire, chamber pieces, and a benefit concert concept tied to the local humane society. And, Chris will of course play a central role in the the inaugural Brass Summit at the Crane School in September, a weekend full of performances, exhibitors, panels, workshops, masterclasses and more. The world-renowned Seraph Brass will be present and perform a featured recital. A great event that's making world-class performance and instruction more accessible! When choosing schools for a doctorate: "For me personally, the teacher is the number one choice that I would make. If I can study with someone who inspires me to be there, inspires me to be better, helps me to grow into the musician I want to be, then everything else can fall into place." - Chris Keach About Christopher Keach: Dr. Christopher Keach, a New York-based professional musician, educator, and researcher, is the Lecturer of Trumpet at the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. He is a multi-talented performer with experience in classical, jazz, and Afro-Cuban music. Keach has performed with the Syracuse Orchestra, Segal Centre Theatre organization, the Palm Beach Opera Orchestra, the Orchestra of Northern New York, the Northern Symphonic Winds, and in the New Works Recital at the 2023 International Trumpet Guild (ITG) Conference. He has worked with artists such as Ashley Hall-Tighe, Tony Glausi, Ed Carroll, Sergei Nakariakov, Karen Donnelly, James Thompson, Septura Brass Septet, Fabio Brum, Caleb Hudson, Jim Wilt, Nikki LaBonte, and Anthony Plog. He currently performs as the Co-Principal of the Orchestra of Northern New York, section leader of the Northern Symphonic Winds, and as a member of the Potsdam Brass Quintet. Keach is as versatile an educator as he is a performer. He has experience teaching a variety of age groups and settings, including K-5 general music, as well as 9-12th grade jazz band and symphonic band. From the summer of 2022 till 2026, Keach taught at the Bay Shore High School Summer Music Program where he taught lessons to beginning and high school instrumentalists. Additionally, in his private studio he teaches both jazz and classical trumpet lessons to students of all ages. Along with his teaching and performance experience, Keach has a great interest in research, specifically in the fields of performance science and electronic music. Keach completed his DMus and MMus degrees in trumpet performance at McGill University, Schulich School of Music, in the studio of Professor Richard Stoelzel. Keach also holds his B.M. in Trumpet Performance and B.M.E. from The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, where he studied with Dr. John R. Ellis. Episode Links: <ul> <li class="Lexical__paragraph"><a href= "https://cpspotsdam.org/brass-summit" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">2026 SUNY Crane School of Music Brass Summit, with Seraph Brass</a></li> <li class="Lexical__paragraph">Website: <a href= "https://christopherkeach.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">https://christopherkeach.com</a></li> <li class="Lexical__paragraph">Instagram: <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/chris_keach_music/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">@chris_keach_music</a></li> <li class="Lexical__paragraph">Instagram: <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/cranetrumpets/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@CraneTrumpetStudio</a></li> <li class="Lexical__paragraph"><a href= "https://bobreeves.com/blog/mary-elizabeth-bowden-trumpet-interview/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mary Elizabeth Bowden interview, The Other Side of the Bell</a></li> </ul> Bob Reeves Brass Events and Appearances: <ul> <li>Joy Brass, September 17-24, Tokyo Japan <a href="http://joybrass.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">http://joybrass.com</a> email to sign up: tp@joybrass.co.jp</li> <li>Virtuosity Music, October 9-10, Boston, MA <a href= "https://calendly.com/steve-nbk/bob-reeves-valve-alignment?month=2026-10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Signup link</a></li> <li>NCMEA Conference, November 8-9, Winston-Salem, NC</li> <li>Greg Black Mouthpieces, November 10, Mount Holly, NC</li> </ul> Podcast Credits: <ul> <li>"A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear</li> <li>Podcast Host - <a draggable="false" href= "https://bobreeves.com/about/" rev="en_rl_none">John Snell</a></li> <li>Photo Credits - <a href="https://juliakia.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Julia Kia Photography</a></li> <li>Audio Engineer - <a href="https://www.tedcragg.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ted Cragg</a></li> </ul>

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet educator, performer and composer Dr. Christopher Keach, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Dr. Chris Keach Trumpet Interview" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here --- How do you apply vocal warmup and training techniques to trumpet playing? And what if it unlocks an entire new approach to practice and pedagogy? Dr. Chris Keach traces his path from a young Long Island trumpet student to college professor at the Crane School of Music, after studying at Crane and McGill University in Montreal, and reflects on how teaching, performing, and research have all shaped his journey. The vocal training techniques he learned along the way, such as jaw and tongue mobility, vowel concepts and nasal feedback, have helped him open up his sound and stamina, and give him further tools to help his students. We chat about shifting from lead jazz trumpet to classical solo work, choosing graduate studies, landing a college teaching job before finishing his doctorate, and why creating new music matters for the trumpet community. Chris began commissioning more original music after realizing how much trumpet repertoire repeats the same works, and wanting to expand the literature with new and diverse voices. His current and upcoming projects include trumpet and electronics, flugelhorn solo repertoire, chamber pieces, and a benefit concert concept tied to the local humane society. And, Chris will of course play a central role in the the inaugural Brass Summit at the Crane School in September, a weekend full of performances, exhibitors, panels, workshops, masterclasses and more. The world-renowned Seraph Brass will be present and perform a featured recital. A great event that's making world-class performance and instruction more accessible! When choosing schools for a doctorate: "For me personally, the teacher is the number one choice that I would make. If I can study with someone who inspires me to be there, inspires me to be better, helps me to grow into the musician I want to be, then everything else can fall into place." - Chris Keach About Christopher Keach: Dr. Christopher Keach, a New York-based professional musician, educator, and researcher, is the Lecturer of Trumpet at the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. He is a multi-talented performer with experience in classical, jazz, and Afro-Cuban music. Keach has performed with the Syracuse Orchestra, Segal Centre Theatre organization, the Palm Beach Opera Orchestra, the Orchestra of Northern New York, the Northern Symphonic Winds, and in the New Works Recital at the 2023 International Trumpet Guild (ITG) Conference. He has worked with artists such as Ashley Hall-Tighe, Tony Glausi, Ed Carroll, Sergei Nakariakov, Karen Donnelly, James Thompson, Septura Brass Septet, Fabio Brum, Caleb Hudson, Jim Wilt, Nikki LaBonte, and Anthony Plog. He currently performs as the Co-Principal of the Orchestra of Northern New York, section leader of the Northern Symphonic Winds, and as a member of the Potsdam Brass Quintet. Keach is as versatile an educator as he is a performer. He has experience teaching a variety of age groups and settings, including K-5 general music, as well as 9-12th grade jazz band and symphonic band. From the summer of 2022 till 2026, Keach taught at the Bay Shore High School Summer Music Program where he taught lessons to beginning and high school instrumentalists. Additionally, in his private studio he teaches both jazz and classical trumpet lessons to students of all ages. Along with his teaching and performance experience, Keach has a great interest in research, specifically in the fields of performance science and electronic music. Keach completed his DMus and MMus degrees in trumpet performance at McGill University, Schulich School of Music, in the studio of Professor Richard Stoelzel. Keach also holds his B.M. in Trumpet Performance and B.M.E. from The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, where he studied with Dr. John R. Ellis. Episode Links: 2026 SUNY Crane School of Music Brass Summit, with Seraph Brass Website: https://christopherkeach.com Instagram: @chris_keach_music Instagram: @CraneTrumpetStudio Mary Elizabeth Bowden interview, The Other Side of the Bell Bob Reeves Brass Events and Appearances: Joy Brass, September 17-24, Tokyo Japan http://joybrass.com email to sign up: tp@joybrass.co.jp Virtuosity Music, October 9-10, Boston, MA Signup link NCMEA Conference, November 8-9, Winston-Salem, NC Greg Black Mouthpieces, November 10, Mount Holly, NC Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Photo Credits - Julia Kia Photography Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet educator, performer and composer Dr. Christopher Keach, is brought to you by <a href="https://bobreeves.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bob Reeves Brass</a>. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "<a href="https://youtu.be/l9fYz7yJ7yI" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Chris Keach Trumpet Interview</a>" <a href="https://bobreeves.com/blog/dr-chris-keach-trumpet-interview-the-other-side-of-the-bell-165" rel="noopener noreferrer">And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here</a> --- How do you apply vocal warmup and training techniques to trumpet playing? And what if it unlocks an entire new approach to practice and pedagogy? Dr. Chris Keach traces his path from a young Long Island trumpet student to college professor at the Crane School of Music, after studying at Crane and McGill University in Montreal, and reflects on how teaching, performing, and research have all shaped his journey. The vocal training techniques he learned along the way, such as jaw and tongue mobility, vowel concepts and nasal feedback, have helped him open up his sound and stamina, and give him further tools to help his students. We chat about shifting from lead jazz trumpet to classical solo work, choosing graduate studies, landing a college teaching job before finishing his doctorate, and why creating new music matters for the trumpet community. Chris began commissioning more original music after realizing how much trumpet repertoire repeats the same works, and wanting to expand the literature with new and diverse voices. His current and upcoming projects include trumpet and electronics, flugelhorn solo repertoire, chamber pieces, and a benefit concert concept tied to the local humane society. And, Chris will of course play a central role in the the inaugural Brass Summit at the Crane School in September, a weekend full of performances, exhibitors, panels, workshops, masterclasses and more. The world-renowned Seraph Brass will be present and perform a featured recital. A great event that's making world-class performance and instruction more accessible! When choosing schools for a doctorate: "For me personally, the teacher is the number one choice that I would make. If I can study with someone who inspires me to be there, inspires me to be better, helps me to grow into the musician I want to be, then everything else can fall into place." - Chris Keach About Christopher Keach: Dr. Christopher Keach, a New York-based professional musician, educator, and researcher, is the Lecturer of Trumpet at the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. He is a multi-talented performer with experience in classical, jazz, and Afro-Cuban music. Keach has performed with the Syracuse Orchestra, Segal Centre Theatre organization, the Palm Beach Opera Orchestra, the Orchestra of Northern New York, the Northern Symphonic Winds, and in the New Works Recital at the 2023 International Trumpet Guild (ITG) Conference. He has worked with artists such as Ashley Hall-Tighe, Tony Glausi, Ed Carroll, Sergei Nakariakov, Karen Donnelly, James Thompson, Septura Brass Septet, Fabio Brum, Caleb Hudson, Jim Wilt, Nikki LaBonte, and Anthony Plog. He currently performs as the Co-Principal of the Orchestra of Northern New York, section leader of the Northern Symphonic Winds, and as a member of the Potsdam Brass Quintet. Keach is as versatile an educator as he is a performer. He has experience teaching a variety of age groups and settings, including K-5 general music, as well as 9-12th grade jazz band and symphonic band. From the summer of 2022 till 2026, Keach taught at the Bay Shore High School Summer Music Program where he taught lessons to beginning and high school instrumentalists. Additionally, in his private studio he teaches both jazz and classical trumpet lessons to students of all ages. Along with his teaching and performance experience, Keach has a great interest in research, specifically in the fields of performance science and electronic music. Keach completed his DMus and MMus degrees in trumpet performance at McGill University, Schulich School of Music, in the studio of Professor Richard Stoelzel. Keach also holds his B.M. in Trumpet Performance and B.M.E. from The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam, where he studied with Dr. John R. Ellis. Episode Links: <ul> <li><a href="https://cpspotsdam.org/brass-summit" rel="noopener noreferrer">2026 SUNY Crane School of Music Brass Summit, with Seraph Brass</a></li> <li>Website: <a href="https://christopherkeach.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://christopherkeach.com</a></li> <li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chris_keach_music/" rel="noopener noreferrer">@chris_keach_music</a></li> <li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cranetrumpets/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer">@CraneTrumpetStudio</a></li> <li><a href="https://bobreeves.com/blog/mary-elizabeth-bowden-trumpet-interview/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mary Elizabeth Bowden interview, The Other Side of the Bell</a></li> </ul> Bob Reeves Brass Events and Appearances: <ul> <li>Joy Brass, September 17-24, Tokyo Japan <a href="http://joybrass.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">http://joybrass.com</a> email to sign up: tp@joybrass.co.jp</li> <li>Virtuosity Music, October 9-10, Boston, MA <a href="https://calendly.com/steve-nbk/bob-reeves-valve-alignment?month=2026-10" rel="noopener noreferrer">Signup link</a></li> <li>NCMEA Conference, November 8-9, Winston-Salem, NC</li> <li>Greg Black Mouthpieces, November 10, Mount Holly, NC</li> </ul> Podcast Credits: <ul> <li>"A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear</li> <li>Podcast Host - <a href="https://bobreeves.com/about/" rel="noopener noreferrer">John Snell</a></li> <li>Photo Credits - <a href="https://juliakia.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Julia Kia Photography</a></li> <li>Audio Engineer - <a href="https://www.tedcragg.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ted Cragg</a></li> </ul>

Dr. Chris Keach: Practice Like a Singer, Not a Trumpeter. Ep. 165

This special episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring the life of trumpet composer, performer and innovator Kenny Wheeler, a conversation with biographers Nick Smart and Brian Shaw, is brought to you by <a href= "https://bobreeves.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bob Reeves Brass</a>. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "<a href="https://youtu.be/WQtf92-sUNU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kenny Wheeler Special</a>" <a href= "https://bobreeves.com/blog/kenny-wheeler-special-the-other-side-of-the-bell-155" target="_blank" rel="noopener">And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here</a> --- Kenny Wheeler has been an inspiration to trumpet players for generations, but in typical Kenny style, we haven't known a lot about his back story, career path and personality. Until now. Nick Smart and Brian Shaw, trumpet trailblazers in their own right, have collaborated on a new biography of Kenny Wheeler called <a href= "https://equinoxonlinelibrary.com/book/58282/song-for-someone" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler</a>, which draws from interviews and archival material and research to tell a compelling and touching story. Kenny went from small town Canada to becoming one of the most influential yet enigmatic jazz musicians in Europe. Along the way, he navigated through all kinds of obstacles, personal and professional, with quiet and understated courage, to truly become a distinct performer. Kenny's solos, improvisation and technical abilities were so unique that he garnered unmatched praise and respect as his career evolved. And yet, underneath it all were what we would now consider mental health struggles, lack of confidence, imposter syndrome - all things that weren't discussed or acknowledged at the time. Those who knew Kenny personally were full of universal acclaim for his warmth, kindness and subtle humor. Brian and Nick join John Snell on today's special episode to share some of the stories from their book, which paints a full picture of Kenny Wheeler's life and music. About Kenny Wheeler: From Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler: Trumpeter and composer Kenny Wheeler (1930–2014) was one of the most enigmatic and influential musicians in recent memory. His instantly recognisable sound was a driving force within every major innovation in modern European jazz during the last half of the 20th century. More importantly, his life provides us with a profound example of the way music can manifest itself in the most unlikely of vessels. About Nick Smart: Head of Jazz Programmes at the Royal Academy of Music, Nick Smart is an internationally renowned Grammy nominated jazz trumpeter, conductor and educator who has given guest masterclasses and performances around the world. Nick was a close colleague and friend of the late Kenny Wheeler and has been instrumental in keeping Wheeler's legacy alive. As well as being a member of Kenny's big band, Nick helped manage the latter stages of Kenny's career, secured the Kenny Wheeler Archive into the Royal Academy of Music Collections, and completed a PhD focused on Wheeler's development. He also led and produced the Grammy nominated album recording, Kenny Wheeler Legacy - Some Days Are Better - released to critical acclaim on the US label Greenleaf Music in January 2025, featuring the Academy Jazz Orchestra in collaboration with the University Miami's Frost Jazz Orchestra. About Brian Shaw: Brian Shaw is an active performer, arranger, and educator known for his versatility. He is one of the few trumpet players in the world equally comfortable in early music, orchestral, jazz, and commercial settings on modern and period instruments, and enjoys an international performing career as a modern and historical trumpet soloist. Brian holds principal positions with the Dallas Winds, Santa Fe Pro Musica, Spire Baroque Orchestra. He is also a regular guest instructor of Historical Trumpet at the Eastman School of Music. From 2007-2021, he was Professor of Trumpet and Jazz Studies at Louisiana State University and was Principal Trumpet of the Baton Rouge (Louisiana) Symphony from 2014-2021. Music Links From This Episode: <ul> <li draggable="false" data-pm-slice="1 1 []" data-en-clipboard= "true"><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/album/2Y9RF60R9o1sCOUpEvQInN?si=XvlJx87gSjaoxA6NCI-sWg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Some Days Are Better: The Lost Scores</a> (Dave Douglas, Kenny Wheeler Legacy), 2025</li> <li draggable="false"><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/album/0FE3QmbRvdT6RjWtuX1GcQ?si=VJTsJje5SEeVWYGom8MD-A" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gnu High</a>, 1976</li> <li draggable="false"><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/album/2eZ6pd2bselm1M1yD6gCnB?si=mAIlzNaNQE6N-ejk3qC27w" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Deer Wan</a>, 1978</li> <li draggable="false"><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/album/3ra5BJuCFVkZGt7CVcwa2m?si=tLvy_apYQGuy5kbvnMb-5A" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anthony Braxton, New York Fall</a>, 1975</li> <li draggable="false"><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/album/6zruG2QsfBtI3vqw5CvuOM?si=oyJprYHRRoCLJlDrZgpQMw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ralph Towner Old Friends New Friends</a>, 1979</li> <li draggable="false"><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/album/6sPLpud7PuwVdOhv7IepDW?si=QSKItuXyTeCzZ2jkp6RTNw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Around Six</a>, 1980</li> <li draggable="false"><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/album/0Az6fSfHF423PVLvqitrWz?si=Vj1U1J7eSdm5zG_otxFAeg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Music for Large and Small Ensembles</a>, 1990</li> </ul> Purchase <a href= "https://equinoxonlinelibrary.com/book/58282/song-for-someone" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler</a> Bob Reeves Brass Upcoming Events and Appearances: <ul> <li dir="ltr">Arkansas Trumpet Day, April 18th, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR Valve alignments: First come, first served!</li> <li dir="ltr"> Next Up! Concert Series: Los Angeles Brass Alliance, with special composition by Dan Rosenboom Pasadena Presbyterian Church, May 9, 7:00 pm <a href= "https://www.labrassalliance.org/events/next-up-2026">https://www.labrassalliance.org/events/next-up-2026</a> Streaming link will appear in advance. </li> <li dir="ltr"> <a href="https://williamadamtrumpet.com/?page_id=47" target="_blank" rel="noopener">William Adam Trumpet Festival</a> July 9-12, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Ill. </li> </ul> Podcast Credits: <ul> <li>"A Room with a View" - composed and performed by <a title="Howie Shear" draggable="false" href= "http://www.howieshear.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" rev= "en_rl_none">Howie Shear</a></li> <li>Podcast Host - <a draggable="false" href= "https://bobreeves.com/about/" rev="en_rl_none">John Snell</a></li> <li>Cover Photo Credits - Courtesy Nick Smart, Brian Shaw and Equinox Publishing</li> <li>Audio Engineer - <a href="https://www.tedcragg.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ted Cragg</a></li> </ul>

This special episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring the life of trumpet composer, performer and innovator Kenny Wheeler, a conversation with biographers Nick Smart and Brian Shaw, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Kenny Wheeler Special" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here --- Kenny Wheeler has been an inspiration to trumpet players for generations, but in typical Kenny style, we haven't known a lot about his back story, career path and personality. Until now. Nick Smart and Brian Shaw, trumpet trailblazers in their own right, have collaborated on a new biography of Kenny Wheeler called Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler, which draws from interviews and archival material and research to tell a compelling and touching story. Kenny went from small town Canada to becoming one of the most influential yet enigmatic jazz musicians in Europe. Along the way, he navigated through all kinds of obstacles, personal and professional, with quiet and understated courage, to truly become a distinct performer. Kenny's solos, improvisation and technical abilities were so unique that he garnered unmatched praise and respect as his career evolved. And yet, underneath it all were what we would now consider mental health struggles, lack of confidence, imposter syndrome - all things that weren't discussed or acknowledged at the time. Those who knew Kenny personally were full of universal acclaim for his warmth, kindness and subtle humor. Brian and Nick join John Snell on today's special episode to share some of the stories from their book, which paints a full picture of Kenny Wheeler's life and music. About Kenny Wheeler: From Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler: Trumpeter and composer Kenny Wheeler (1930–2014) was one of the most enigmatic and influential musicians in recent memory. His instantly recognisable sound was a driving force within every major innovation in modern European jazz during the last half of the 20th century. More importantly, his life provides us with a profound example of the way music can manifest itself in the most unlikely of vessels. About Nick Smart: Head of Jazz Programmes at the Royal Academy of Music, Nick Smart is an internationally renowned Grammy nominated jazz trumpeter, conductor and educator who has given guest masterclasses and performances around the world. Nick was a close colleague and friend of the late Kenny Wheeler and has been instrumental in keeping Wheeler's legacy alive. As well as being a member of Kenny's big band, Nick helped manage the latter stages of Kenny's career, secured the Kenny Wheeler Archive into the Royal Academy of Music Collections, and completed a PhD focused on Wheeler's development. He also led and produced the Grammy nominated album recording, Kenny Wheeler Legacy - Some Days Are Better - released to critical acclaim on the US label Greenleaf Music in January 2025, featuring the Academy Jazz Orchestra in collaboration with the University Miami's Frost Jazz Orchestra. About Brian Shaw: Brian Shaw is an active performer, arranger, and educator known for his versatility. He is one of the few trumpet players in the world equally comfortable in early music, orchestral, jazz, and commercial settings on modern and period instruments, and enjoys an international performing career as a modern and historical trumpet soloist. Brian holds principal positions with the Dallas Winds, Santa Fe Pro Musica, Spire Baroque Orchestra. He is also a regular guest instructor of Historical Trumpet at the Eastman School of Music. From 2007-2021, he was Professor of Trumpet and Jazz Studies at Louisiana State University and was Principal Trumpet of the Baton Rouge (Louisiana) Symphony from 2014-2021. Music Links From This Episode: Some Days Are Better: The Lost Scores (Dave Douglas, Kenny Wheeler Legacy), 2025 Gnu High, 1976 Deer Wan, 1978 Anthony Braxton, New York Fall, 1975 Ralph Towner Old Friends New Friends, 1979 Around Six, 1980 Music for Large and Small Ensembles, 1990 Purchase Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler Bob Reeves Brass Upcoming Events and Appearances: Arkansas Trumpet Day, April 18th, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR Valve alignments: First come, first served! Next Up! Concert Series: Los Angeles Brass Alliance, with special composition by Dan Rosenboom Pasadena Presbyterian Church, May 9, 7:00 pm https://www.labrassalliance.org/events/next-up-2026 Streaming link will appear in advance. William Adam Trumpet Festival July 9-12, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Ill. Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Cover Photo Credits - Courtesy Nick Smart, Brian Shaw and Equinox Publishing Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

This special episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring the life of trumpet composer, performer and innovator Kenny Wheeler, a conversation with biographers Nick Smart and Brian Shaw, is brought to you by <a href="https://bobreeves.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bob Reeves Brass</a>. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "<a href="https://youtu.be/WQtf92-sUNU" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kenny Wheeler Special</a>" <a href="https://bobreeves.com/blog/kenny-wheeler-special-the-other-side-of-the-bell-155" rel="noopener noreferrer">And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here</a> --- Kenny Wheeler has been an inspiration to trumpet players for generations, but in typical Kenny style, we haven't known a lot about his back story, career path and personality. Until now. Nick Smart and Brian Shaw, trumpet trailblazers in their own right, have collaborated on a new biography of Kenny Wheeler called <a href="https://equinoxonlinelibrary.com/book/58282/song-for-someone" rel="noopener noreferrer">Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler</a>, which draws from interviews and archival material and research to tell a compelling and touching story. Kenny went from small town Canada to becoming one of the most influential yet enigmatic jazz musicians in Europe. Along the way, he navigated through all kinds of obstacles, personal and professional, with quiet and understated courage, to truly become a distinct performer. Kenny's solos, improvisation and technical abilities were so unique that he garnered unmatched praise and respect as his career evolved. And yet, underneath it all were what we would now consider mental health struggles, lack of confidence, imposter syndrome - all things that weren't discussed or acknowledged at the time. Those who knew Kenny personally were full of universal acclaim for his warmth, kindness and subtle humor. Brian and Nick join John Snell on today's special episode to share some of the stories from their book, which paints a full picture of Kenny Wheeler's life and music. About Kenny Wheeler: From Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler: Trumpeter and composer Kenny Wheeler (1930–2014) was one of the most enigmatic and influential musicians in recent memory. His instantly recognisable sound was a driving force within every major innovation in modern European jazz during the last half of the 20th century. More importantly, his life provides us with a profound example of the way music can manifest itself in the most unlikely of vessels. About Nick Smart: Head of Jazz Programmes at the Royal Academy of Music, Nick Smart is an internationally renowned Grammy nominated jazz trumpeter, conductor and educator who has given guest masterclasses and performances around the world. Nick was a close colleague and friend of the late Kenny Wheeler and has been instrumental in keeping Wheeler's legacy alive. As well as being a member of Kenny's big band, Nick helped manage the latter stages of Kenny's career, secured the Kenny Wheeler Archive into the Royal Academy of Music Collections, and completed a PhD focused on Wheeler's development. He also led and produced the Grammy nominated album recording, Kenny Wheeler Legacy - Some Days Are Better - released to critical acclaim on the US label Greenleaf Music in January 2025, featuring the Academy Jazz Orchestra in collaboration with the University Miami's Frost Jazz Orchestra. About Brian Shaw: Brian Shaw is an active performer, arranger, and educator known for his versatility. He is one of the few trumpet players in the world equally comfortable in early music, orchestral, jazz, and commercial settings on modern and period instruments, and enjoys an international performing career as a modern and historical trumpet soloist. Brian holds principal positions with the Dallas Winds, Santa Fe Pro Musica, Spire Baroque Orchestra. He is also a regular guest instructor of Historical Trumpet at the Eastman School of Music. From 2007-2021, he was Professor of Trumpet and Jazz Studies at Louisiana State University and was Principal Trumpet of the Baton Rouge (Louisiana) Symphony from 2014-2021. Music Links From This Episode: <ul> <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/2Y9RF60R9o1sCOUpEvQInN?si=XvlJx87gSjaoxA6NCI-sWg" rel="noopener noreferrer">Some Days Are Better: The Lost Scores</a> (Dave Douglas, Kenny Wheeler Legacy), 2025</li> <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0FE3QmbRvdT6RjWtuX1GcQ?si=VJTsJje5SEeVWYGom8MD-A" rel="noopener noreferrer">Gnu High</a>, 1976</li> <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/2eZ6pd2bselm1M1yD6gCnB?si=mAIlzNaNQE6N-ejk3qC27w" rel="noopener noreferrer">Deer Wan</a>, 1978</li> <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3ra5BJuCFVkZGt7CVcwa2m?si=tLvy_apYQGuy5kbvnMb-5A" rel="noopener noreferrer">Anthony Braxton, New York Fall</a>, 1975</li> <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/6zruG2QsfBtI3vqw5CvuOM?si=oyJprYHRRoCLJlDrZgpQMw" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ralph Towner Old Friends New Friends</a>, 1979</li> <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/6sPLpud7PuwVdOhv7IepDW?si=QSKItuXyTeCzZ2jkp6RTNw" rel="noopener noreferrer">Around Six</a>, 1980</li> <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0Az6fSfHF423PVLvqitrWz?si=Vj1U1J7eSdm5zG_otxFAeg" rel="noopener noreferrer">Music for Large and Small Ensembles</a>, 1990</li> </ul> Purchase <a href="https://equinoxonlinelibrary.com/book/58282/song-for-someone" rel="noopener noreferrer">Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler</a> Bob Reeves Brass Upcoming Events and Appearances: <ul> <li>Arkansas Trumpet Day, April 18th, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR Valve alignments: First come, first served!</li> <li> Next Up! Concert Series: Los Angeles Brass Alliance, with special composition by Dan Rosenboom Pasadena Presbyterian Church, May 9, 7:00 pm <a href="https://www.labrassalliance.org/events/next-up-2026" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.labrassalliance.org/events/next-up-2026</a> Streaming link will appear in advance. </li> <li> <a href="https://williamadamtrumpet.com/?page_id=47" rel="noopener noreferrer">William Adam Trumpet Festival</a> July 9-12, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Ill. </li> </ul> Podcast Credits: <ul> <li>"A Room with a View" - composed and performed by <a title="Howie Shear" href="http://www.howieshear.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Howie Shear</a></li> <li>Podcast Host - <a href="https://bobreeves.com/about/" rel="noopener noreferrer">John Snell</a></li> <li>Cover Photo Credits - Courtesy Nick Smart, Brian Shaw and Equinox Publishing</li> <li>Audio Engineer - <a href="https://www.tedcragg.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ted Cragg</a></li> </ul>

Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler. With Nick Smart & Brian Shaw. Ep. 155

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring legendary trumpeter and horn arranger Jerry Hey, is brought to you by <a href= "https://bobreeves.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bob Reeves Brass</a>. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "<a href="https://youtu.be/74c-sPY3eOU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Hey trumpet interview</a>" Find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here: <a href= "https://bobreeves.com/blog/jerry-hey-trumpet-interview-the-other-side-of-the-bell-146" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">https://bobreeves.com/blog/jerry-hey-trumpet-interview-the-other-side-of-the-bell-146</a> About Jerry Hey: Jerry Hey is one of the defining trumpet voices and horn arrangers in modern popular music. Born in Dixon, Illinois, into a deeply musical family, he honed his craft with Charlie Geyer and later at Indiana University under legendary pedagogue William Adam. After an early run co-founding the jazz-fusion band Seawind in Hawaii, Hey moved to Los Angeles in the mid-1970s and quickly became a first-call session player and arranger. From there, his sound is heard on a staggering number of iconic recordings. Hey's horn writing and trumpet playing helped shape Michael Jackson's Off the Wall and Thriller albums, and his long association with Quincy Jones produced landmark work for Earth, Wind & Fire, George Benson, Al Jarreau, Patti Austin, Barbra Streisand, Toto, and countless others. A six-time Grammy winner, he has been recognized repeatedly for his instrumental and vocal arrangements, as well as his contributions to major film and television scores, including Flashdance, The Color Purple, the Back to the Future trilogy, Forrest Gump, and Dreamgirls. Most recently, Hey has opened his personal archives in Notes From The Past 50 Years, a 250-page collection of pop excerpts spanning his studio career. The book gathers more than 200 of his favorite licks, along with personal stories and rare photos that trace his path from early days in Los Angeles to his most iconic sessions—including a few lesser-known musical gems. Equally at home leading a horn section, crafting a string chart, or delivering a lyrical flugelhorn solo, Hey remains a benchmark for precision, style, and imagination in the studio, with an influence that continues to shape how artists, arrangers, and producers think about horn sections today. Episode Links: <ul> <li dir="ltr"> <a href="http://heyhorns.com" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">Website: www.heyhorns.com</a> </li> <li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/heyhorns/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram (@heyhorns)</a></li> <li dir="ltr"><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4ajeBKqrKcVGAosmNWi6lF?si=sAMOXyAFQvyLAT-y1kZA0g" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jerry Hey playlist</a></li> <li dir="ltr"><a href= "https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/2874972" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">The Other Side of the Bell Episode #15 - William "Bill" Adam Tribute</a></li> <li dir="ltr"><a href= "https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/3311582" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">The Other Side of the Bell Episode #22 - Jerry Hey</a></li> </ul> Podcast Credits: <ul> <li>"A Room with a View" - composed and performed by <a title="Howie Shear" draggable="false" href= "http://www.howieshear.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" rev= "en_rl_none">Howie Shear</a></li> <li>Podcast Host - <a draggable="false" href= "https://bobreeves.com/about/" rev="en_rl_none">John Snell</a></li> <li>Cover Photo Credit - Jerry Hey/Megan Noller</li> <li>Audio Engineer - <a href= "https://www.quickeditpodcasts.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">Ted Cragg</a></li> </ul>

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring legendary trumpeter and horn arranger Jerry Hey, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Jerry Hey trumpet interview" Find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here: https://bobreeves.com/blog/jerry-hey-trumpet-interview-the-other-side-of-the-bell-146 About Jerry Hey: Jerry Hey is one of the defining trumpet voices and horn arrangers in modern popular music. Born in Dixon, Illinois, into a deeply musical family, he honed his craft with Charlie Geyer and later at Indiana University under legendary pedagogue William Adam. After an early run co-founding the jazz-fusion band Seawind in Hawaii, Hey moved to Los Angeles in the mid-1970s and quickly became a first-call session player and arranger. From there, his sound is heard on a staggering number of iconic recordings. Hey's horn writing and trumpet playing helped shape Michael Jackson's Off the Wall and Thriller albums, and his long association with Quincy Jones produced landmark work for Earth, Wind & Fire, George Benson, Al Jarreau, Patti Austin, Barbra Streisand, Toto, and countless others. A six-time Grammy winner, he has been recognized repeatedly for his instrumental and vocal arrangements, as well as his contributions to major film and television scores, including Flashdance, The Color Purple, the Back to the Future trilogy, Forrest Gump, and Dreamgirls. Most recently, Hey has opened his personal archives in Notes From The Past 50 Years, a 250-page collection of pop excerpts spanning his studio career. The book gathers more than 200 of his favorite licks, along with personal stories and rare photos that trace his path from early days in Los Angeles to his most iconic sessions—including a few lesser-known musical gems. Equally at home leading a horn section, crafting a string chart, or delivering a lyrical flugelhorn solo, Hey remains a benchmark for precision, style, and imagination in the studio, with an influence that continues to shape how artists, arrangers, and producers think about horn sections today. Episode Links: Website: www.heyhorns.com Instagram (@heyhorns) Jerry Hey playlist The Other Side of the Bell Episode #15 - William "Bill" Adam Tribute The Other Side of the Bell Episode #22 - Jerry Hey Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Cover Photo Credit - Jerry Hey/Megan Noller Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring legendary trumpeter and horn arranger Jerry Hey, is brought to you by <a href="https://bobreeves.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bob Reeves Brass</a>. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "<a href="https://youtu.be/74c-sPY3eOU" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jerry Hey trumpet interview</a>" Find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here: <a href="https://bobreeves.com/blog/jerry-hey-trumpet-interview-the-other-side-of-the-bell-146" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://bobreeves.com/blog/jerry-hey-trumpet-interview-the-other-side-of-the-bell-146</a> About Jerry Hey: Jerry Hey is one of the defining trumpet voices and horn arrangers in modern popular music. Born in Dixon, Illinois, into a deeply musical family, he honed his craft with Charlie Geyer and later at Indiana University under legendary pedagogue William Adam. After an early run co-founding the jazz-fusion band Seawind in Hawaii, Hey moved to Los Angeles in the mid-1970s and quickly became a first-call session player and arranger. From there, his sound is heard on a staggering number of iconic recordings. Hey's horn writing and trumpet playing helped shape Michael Jackson's Off the Wall and Thriller albums, and his long association with Quincy Jones produced landmark work for Earth, Wind &amp; Fire, George Benson, Al Jarreau, Patti Austin, Barbra Streisand, Toto, and countless others. A six-time Grammy winner, he has been recognized repeatedly for his instrumental and vocal arrangements, as well as his contributions to major film and television scores, including Flashdance, The Color Purple, the Back to the Future trilogy, Forrest Gump, and Dreamgirls. Most recently, Hey has opened his personal archives in Notes From The Past 50 Years, a 250-page collection of pop excerpts spanning his studio career. The book gathers more than 200 of his favorite licks, along with personal stories and rare photos that trace his path from early days in Los Angeles to his most iconic sessions—including a few lesser-known musical gems. Equally at home leading a horn section, crafting a string chart, or delivering a lyrical flugelhorn solo, Hey remains a benchmark for precision, style, and imagination in the studio, with an influence that continues to shape how artists, arrangers, and producers think about horn sections today. Episode Links: <ul> <li> <a href="http://heyhorns.com" rel="noopener noreferrer">Website: www.heyhorns.com</a> </li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/heyhorns/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instagram (@heyhorns)</a></li> <li><a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4ajeBKqrKcVGAosmNWi6lF?si=sAMOXyAFQvyLAT-y1kZA0g" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jerry Hey playlist</a></li> <li><a href="https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/2874972" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Other Side of the Bell Episode #15 - William "Bill" Adam Tribute</a></li> <li><a href="https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/3311582" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Other Side of the Bell Episode #22 - Jerry Hey</a></li> </ul> Podcast Credits: <ul> <li>"A Room with a View" - composed and performed by <a title="Howie Shear" href="http://www.howieshear.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Howie Shear</a></li> <li>Podcast Host - <a href="https://bobreeves.com/about/" rel="noopener noreferrer">John Snell</a></li> <li>Cover Photo Credit - Jerry Hey/Megan Noller</li> <li>Audio Engineer - <a href="https://www.quickeditpodcasts.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ted Cragg</a></li> </ul>

Michael Jackson, Earth, Wind & Fire, Quincy Jones: Stories from the Studio, with Jerry Hey. Ep. 146

Bob Reeves shares his experiences with the original Canadian Brass. David Bilger, principal trumpet of the Philadelphia Orchestra talks about trumpet, auditions, and his online lessons through ArtistWorks.com.

Bob Reeves shares his experiences with the original Canadian Brass. David Bilger, principal trumpet of the Philadelphia Orchestra talks about trumpet, auditions, and his online lessons through ArtistWorks.com.

Episode 5 - David Bilger, Canadian Brass

This episode features an interview with Hollywood's first-call trumpet player, Malcolm McNab. Malcolm discusses his career, his studies with James "Jimmy" Stamp, and his new Camp McNab.

This episode features an interview with Hollywood's first-call trumpet player, Malcolm McNab. Malcolm discusses his career, his studies with James "Jimmy" Stamp, and his new Camp McNab.

Episode #4: Malcolm McNab

This episode features Bob Reeves sharing some stories about Hollywood legend John Clyman. Our special guest in the studio is Jay Daversa (www.jaydaversa.com). Jay's career started at a young age with appearances on TV. Later, he joined Stan Kenton's band before settling in Los Angeles and becoming one of the most in demand studio session players around.

This episode features Bob Reeves sharing some stories about Hollywood legend John Clyman. Our special guest in the studio is Jay Daversa (www.jaydaversa.com). Jay's career started at a young age with appearances on TV. Later, he joined Stan Kenton's band before settling in Los Angeles and becoming one of the most in demand studio session players around.

Episode 3 - John Clyman, Jay Daversa

In this episode of The Other Side Of The Bell - A Trumpet Podcast, we interview Hollywood studio trumpet player Charley Davis. Charley talks about starting on trumpet, going to Indiana University with Bill Adam, hitting the road with Woody Herman and Buddy Rich, then eventually growing roots in Los Angeles in the studios. Charley also talks about how and why he developed his successful trumpet mute line. Bob Reeves joins us to share some stories about Bud Brisbois.

In this episode of The Other Side Of The Bell - A Trumpet Podcast, we interview Hollywood studio trumpet player Charley Davis. Charley talks about starting on trumpet, going to Indiana University with Bill Adam, hitting the road with Woody Herman and Buddy Rich, then eventually growing roots in Los Angeles in the studios. Charley also talks about how and why he developed his successful trumpet mute line. Bob Reeves joins us to share some stories about Bud Brisbois.

Episode 2 - Bud Brisbois, Charley Davis

In this episode of The Other Side Of The Bell, we interview Paul Panichi, one of Australia's top commercial trumpet players. He shares his insights into the music business and his emergence onto the Hong Kong scene. Bob Reeves joins us to share some stories of Hollywood legend John Audino. Also, we give you nine easy trumpet tips to help your playing.

In this episode of The Other Side Of The Bell, we interview Paul Panichi, one of Australia's top commercial trumpet players. He shares his insights into the music business and his emergence onto the Hong Kong scene. Bob Reeves joins us to share some stories of Hollywood legend John Audino. Also, we give you nine easy trumpet tips to help your playing.

Episode 1 - Paul Panichi, John Audino, 9 Trumpet Tips

This podcast features trumpet tips, trumpet player interviews, and stories from Bob Reeves.

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