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This is Larry's second interview with Rob Roy McGregor on Balquihidder Music, Publishing, and Practicing Trumpet Excerpts
Rob talks about editing, trust, and avoiding gossip. They discuss publishing and distribution, including selling Balquihidder Music to Carl Fischer while keeping the Balquihidder imprint, moving eBooks onto Carl Fischer’s iTunes store, and placing Jean-Michel Pilc’s book It’s About Music for wider exposure. Rob explains how brass publishing relies on one-to-one promotion, social media, and high-profile performers, and why new repertoire struggles to displace standard works in education. He recounts founding Balquihidder in 1991, the origin of its name, expanding from his own excerpt materials to 180 titles, and his process-driven approach to preparing excerpts and piccolo trumpet parts by reducing tension and building range gradually.
00:00 Welcome Back Update
00:39 Sponsors And Support
01:24 Zoom Setup And Greetings
04:22 Interview Goals And Editing
06:16 Trust And Public Image
09:13 Selling To Carl Fischer
11:59 Books Worth Reading
14:24 Why New Music Struggles
21:38 Marketing And Word Of Mouth
25:23 Balquihidder Imprint Today
28:07 Origins Of Balquihidder
32:50 Naming And Early Growth
36:25 From Hobby To 180 Titles
38:31 Early Finale Struggles
40:31 Why Stick With Finale
40:57 Origins of Excerpt Books
42:03 Auditions and Musical Growth
46:45 Building Etudes for Students
48:54 Method Behind the Volumes
51:25 Context Beats Raw Chops
54:52 Practical Tools Approach
57:11 Piccolo Comeback at 70
01:02:20 Stepwise Practice Regimen
01:08:56 Air Management and Patience
01:10:40 Teachers and Growing Up
01:14:19 Closing Thanks and Farewell -
Glenn Drewes on Big Band Road Life, Broadway, Sesame Street & Lessons from Buddy Rich
The host returns to release long-delayed Studio HFL interviews, thanks early sponsors and patrons, and begins a conversation with trumpeter Glenn Drewes (calling from Long Island) about his career and the era’s booming music scene. Drewes recalls high school with Vince DiMartino, influential teacher Ed Delulio, and early gigging before joining Lionel Hampton’s band, including an on-the-road encounter with 17-year-old John Faddis. He describes bus-travel big band life, pay and camaraderie, stints with Buddy Rich (including a tense onstage moment), and how networking led to recording work and meeting Don Sebesky. Drewes discusses Broadway work since 1981, including 13 years on Chicago, advice for young players, his Sesame Street recording job, practice and fitness habits during the pandemic, key influences (Maynard Ferguson, Blue Mitchell, Sweets Edison), and stories from commercial auditions.
00:00 Glenn Drewes Interview - Trumpet Legend on Hampton, Buddy Rich & Broadway
04:20 Early Career & Timing
11:10 Playing with Lionel Hampton
18:33 Buddy Rich Stories
36:18 Broadway & Sesame Street
41:48 Influences & Philosophy
53:09 Power of Positivity -
Fehlende Folgen?
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Wayne Tanabe joins the podcast from outside Waco, Texas after leaving New York City during the COVID-19 shutdown, discussing how the pandemic affected musicians, venues, and safe in-person instrument work. He describes continuing Yamaha-related R&D from home while planning safety protocols for customer visits, including concerns about aerosols and sanitation when testing brass instruments. Tanabe explains misconceptions about brass airflow and shares demonstrations showing that brass playing produces less outgoing airflow than many assume, with flutes posing more concern than brass for room spread. He clarifies that he is not a trumpet player—he studied percussion at DePaul—and recounts formative experiences hearing major trumpet artists and being surrounded by Chicago-area musical icons. Tanabe outlines his path through repair training at Allied Repair (alongside Dave Monette), running a repair-focused business for 24 years, and pursuing technology-driven approaches such as cryogenic freezing, precision valve alignment, computer analysis with the University of Vienna, ultrasonic cleaning, and the patented Magnetic Dent Removal System using rare-earth magnets. He explains how educational writing and online participation under the name Brass Rx helped grow national demand for his specialized services. Tanabe details how his connections with Chicago Symphony players like John Hagstrom and Yamaha prototype work led to Yamaha opportunities, and he describes his philosophy of tailoring instrument response to individual players through reversible adjustments, careful listening, and shared vocabulary about sound and response. He and the host discuss examples of small changes producing major results, including mouthpiece clocking, and Tanabe explains how manufacturing, polishing, plating, and receiver tolerances can create “sweet spots.” He shares repair stories ranging from heavily damaged student instruments to working with historic and iconic instruments and musicians, including visits to the Louis Armstrong House and composer graves in Vienna. Bob Malone briefly joins late, noting his long Yamaha development history dating back to work on the 6310Z trumpet, and the conversation touches on Yamaha’s scale alongside its boutique craftsmanship and the success of the Chicago Artist/Xeno trumpets, before the recording ends amid audio-connection troubleshooting.
00:00 Wayne Tanabe Interview - Yamaha Brass Craftsman
01:32 Introduction
05:15 COVID-19 Impact on Music Industry
15:09 Wayne's Background as Percussionist
17:26 Starting Brass Rx Repair Business
26:25 Joining Yamaha
32:10 Working with Professional Musicians
35:35 The Art of Instrument Customization
01:05:25 Bob Malone Joins the Conversation -
In-Depth Interview: The Evolution and Future of Trumpet Music
Join us in this captivating episode as we dive into the world of trumpet music with a seasoned expert. Starting with early memories linked to military life in Germany, the conversation traverses through a rich tapestry of musical history, focusing on pivotal works and notable composers like Gustav Mahler, Richard Strauss, and Victor Nessler. Discover the intricacies of composing and performing trumpet music from baroque to contemporary times, including the challenges and joys of premiering new compositions. Gain insights into the evolution of the trumpet repertoire and the unique experiences of balancing life as a soloist, teacher, and orchestral musician.
00:00 Introduction & Background
03:24 Blumine CD Project & Gustav Mahler
06:23 Richard Strauss Sonata & New Compositions
09:46 The Romantic Era & Trumpet Repertoire Gap
20:36 Teaching & Learning from Song
21:57 Beethoven & Historical Context
24:27 Mahler's Song Cycles
26:25 New Repertoire & Commissions
32:09 Approaching New Music
36:22 Edison Denisov Commission Story
46:24 Contemporary Music & Technique
56:27 Career Path: Orchestra & Solo Work
01:04:22 Teaching Philosophy & Students
01:07:23 Closing Thoughts -
Behind the Scenes with Mike Sweeney: Composer, Arranger, and Educator
In this episode, we take a deep dive into Mike Sweeney's career as a composer, arranger, and educator. Mike talks about his early days starting the Studio HFL interviews in 2017, his struggle with editing during COVID-19, and his gratitude for sponsors and Patreon subscribers. He details his extensive experience in music education, from his time at the University of Indianapolis to several significant teaching posts. Mike discusses his journey at Hal Leonard, the evolution of the company, and his contributions to the field of music publishing. He also shares his passion for Irish music, his fishing hobby, and his insights into writing music for different skill levels. Timestamped topics include his early career, transition to Hal Leonard, flex band series, and personal interests.
00:00 Mike Sweeney Interview - Podcast
01:24 Introduction & IU Years
08:41 Early Musical Influences
14:49 First Teaching Jobs
19:33 Writing for Young Musicians
25:32 Joining Hal Leonard
38:38 Flex Band Series
44:52 Irish Music Journey
51:05 Life During COVID -
Studio HFL Interviews: Rediscovering Hidden Gems and Lifelong Lessons
Inside the World of Classical Music and Jazz with Rob - A Journey from Michigan to L.A. Philharmonic
In this episode, join host Larry and the legendary Rob as they embark on a journey through the world of music in Rob's life. Rob shares the genesis of his interest in music, his diverse experiences from jazz and psychology major in college, to his profound stint in various orchestras, including the Baltimore Symphony and the LA Philharmonic. The pivotal moments include his enthralling South American tour and West Point Band adventures. The discussion delves into the impact of great teachers like Clifford Lilia, the influence of technology like Zoom on music education, and the profound connection cultivated through decades of musical collaboration. Enjoy an enriching insight into what it takes to shape a successful career in classical music.
00:00 Rob Roy McGregor Video
01:24 Introduction
07:52 Teaching Philosophy
14:42 Early Life & University of Michigan
17:37 Dominican Republic Tour
23:43 Studying with Clifford Lilia
34:38 West Point Band
39:36 Baltimore Symphony
42:41 Playing with Tom Stevens
48:06 Retirement & Beyond -
Kenny Rampton: Jazz at Lincoln Center, Sesame Street & Finding Positivity Through Music
Join us for an intimate conversation with Kenny Rampton, trumpet player with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and Sesame Street. Kenny shares his journey from growing up in a musical family in Las Vegas to becoming one of New York's most respected jazz musicians.
In this interview, Kenny discusses:
• His 11-year tenure with Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center
• Recording for Sesame Street and the impact of children's television
• Writing and arranging for big bands
• His nonprofit Jazz Outreach Initiative (JOI) and the Las Vegas Youth Jazz Orchestra
• Influences from Clark Terry, Clifford Brown, and Maynard Ferguson
• Navigating the challenges of COVID-19 as a New York musician
• The importance of listening, practice, and finding positivity in difficult times
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction & Welcome
0:54 - Meeting Kenny & Common Connections
2:44 - The Sesame Street Gig
5:49 - Recording Process & Remote Sessions
10:05 - Lincoln Center & Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
14:48 - How the Lincoln Center Gig Came About
19:50 - Philosophy on Mistakes & Perfection
23:19 - Writing & Arranging for Big Band
27:35 - Early Years & Musical Background
31:28 - Starting Trumpet & Early Improvisation
33:28 - Teaching & Jazz Outreach Initiative
38:35 - Influences & Listening Recommendations
45:05 - Maynard Ferguson & Current Listening
50:10 - Meeting Sergei Nakariakov & Embracing Silence
51:36 - COVID Impact on New York Musicians
58:30 - Finding Positivity in Difficult Times
1:03:30 - Round Table Discussions with Legendary Musicians
1:06:10 - Closing Thoughts & Final Message
Featured Topics:
Jazz education and mentorship
The reality of being a working musician in NYC
Collaboration with world-class artists
Life on the road with a touring big band
The journey vs. the destination in music and life
Connect with Kenny Rampton:
Jazz Outreach Initiative: [Add link if available] -
Studio HFL: Diving Deep into Trumpet Insights and Industry Chats
In this engaging episode of Studio HFL, our host reconnects with devoted listeners and shares exciting news about continuing and upcoming interviews. Reflecting on the journey since 2017, the discussion acknowledges the invaluable support from various sponsors such as Eastman Music Company, S.E. Shires, Chopsaver, Austin Custom Brass, Hammond Design Pickett Blackburn, and Messina Covers, along with generous Patreon subscribers. The interview touches on diverse themes including technical difficulties with Zoom, musical projects, teaching experiences, and the evolving technology in the music world. A passionate conversation about musical instruments, warm-up routines, and the interconnectedness of fundamentals and musical artistry offers a wealth of insights for music enthusiasts and aspiring musicians alike.
00:00 Introduction & Technical Setup
02:36 Ham Radio Discussion
06:10 Northwestern Teaching Model
15:09 Commercial vs Classical Playing
19:15 Mouthpieces & Equipment
24:43 Historic Trumpet Collection
37:20 French & Russian Repertoire
46:02 ITG Conference & Community
48:15 The Sachs Routine Book
58:11 Fundamentals & Musicality
01:00:49 String Players & Phrasing
01:02:48 John Mack & Connecting Notes
01:05:26 Listening & Ensemble Skills
01:07:01 Great Soloists & Singers
01:09:23 Wrap-Up & Future Plans -
Inside Stories from the Empire Brass Tour Manager - Chuck Wilson's Journey from Hershey to Boston and Beyond
Join us on Studio HFL as host Larry welcomes Chuck Wilson, former tour manager for the iconic Empire Brass Quintet, for a fascinating discussion. Chuck shares his unique experiences working with legendary musicians like Rolf Smedvig, Charles Lewis, and Sam Pilafian. Hear about his early musical influences, his family's background, and his journey from Hershey, Pennsylvania to becoming a vital part of one of the most renowned brass quintets in the world. Chuck also delves into his time at West Point and his continued passion for drum corps. This episode offers an insider’s perspective on the music industry and the life of a touring musician.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:13 Chuck Wilson's Background and Connection to Empire Brass
02:56 Musical Journey and Education
05:21 Drum Corps and Early Influences
08:46 Joining the Empire Brass Quintet
17:21 Touring with Empire Brass
22:10 Challenges and Innovations on the Road
33:29 Reflecting on the Brass Quintet Legacy
33:53 David O'Hanion's Journey and Teaching Philosophy
34:50 Personalities and Practices of Quintet Members
36:28 Memorable Moments and Challenges
41:16 Transition to West Point Band
45:19 Life and Career at West Point
57:20 Drum Corps and Alumni Connections
01:00:45 Final Reflections and Gratitude
This is from an April 22, 2022 interview. Transcripts available upon request. Contact Larry Powell at [email protected] for that and any other questions and/or comments.
Thank you for listening! -
L.A. studios legend Rick Baptist joined me for an interview on October 12, 2020 for this fantastic insight into his career.
Chapters/Key Moments
00:00 My Intro & Sponsor Info
03:54 Interview begins
08:48 Leaving trumpet to lead the AFM local
17:59 His story from the beginning
23:37 Getting to Vegas & rotation bands
32:49 The Brunson Brothers (great story!)
36:42 Playing lead
39:28 Getting to LA
47:08 The opening solo in Pixar’s UP
57:20 Music & the movies
1:06:08 The Simpsons
1:08:53 Advocating for musicians
1:08:13 Studio etiquette
1:23:14 Playing for the Oscars
Rick talks about many of his colleagues and stars he’s worked with in this interview, including Malcolm McNab, Gary Grant, Warren Leuning, John Audino, Wayne Bergeron, Harry James, Placido Domingo, Bill Conti, Graham Young, Tony Turand (sp), Snooky Young, Chuck Findley, and a few more!
Find more interviews at www.studioHFL.com and while you're there sign up for the newsletter. You'll get information on interview releases and new live interviews coming up.
All Rights Reserved
Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
Director of Artist Services at Yamaha, John Wittmann joined me in the studio for a live interview on April 5, 2022.
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Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
University of Utah Professor of Trumpet and member of Mirari, Peyden Shelton joined me in the studio for a live interview on March 29, 2022.
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Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
Recording studio legend Gary Grant joined me in the studio for a live interview on March 22, 2022.
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Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
Jari Villanueva, USAF (ret), and bugle call expert, joined me in the studio for a live interview on March 8, 2022.
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Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
Mnozil Brass trumpeter Roman Rindberger joined me on October 2, 2020 for this fantastic insight into his career.
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(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
Composer Peter Meechan joined me for an interview on December 15, 2020 to talk about Song of Hope, written for Ryan Anthony, and much more. You can find out more about Peter by visiting www.meechanmusic.com.
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Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
Conn-Selmer Artist Morris Northcutt joined me in the studio for a live interview on February 15, 2022 to talk about and promote his new album release, Tonada. You can find that album on Amazon and via the Bob Reeves website at www.bobreeves.com. And, you can find out more about Morris at www.morrisnorthcutt.com.
Find more interviews at www.studioHFL.com and while you're there sign up for the newsletter. You'll get information on interview releases and new live interviews coming up.
Be sure to check out the show sponsors:
Messina Covers - www.messinacovers.net
Karl Hammond Design - www.karlhammonddesign.com
S.E. Shires - www.seshires.com
Eastman Winds - www.eastmanwinds.com
Pickett-Blackburn - www.pickettblackburn.com
Chopsaver - www.chopsaver.com
Austin Custom Brass - www.austincustombrass.biz
You can become a part of the studioHFL community by becoming a financial backer for as little as $3/month. That's only $36/year! There are five tiers of support with a variety of benefits for each level, including full show transcripts. Find out more by visiting www.patreon.com/studiohfl
Produced by Larry Powell
Eastman Winds Performing Artist
S.E. Shires Performing Artist
(C) 2022 Powell Music, LLCAll Rights Reserved
Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
This is my interview with Mark Buselli, Professor of Jazz Studies at Ball State University. This interview was streamed live on February 8, 2022.
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Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
This is my 2nd interview with Conrad Jones, catching up with him after more than two years and finding out what he was up to. You'll enjoy this short interview where he talks about a very cool collaboration with ISO bass trombonist Riley Giampolo, the Two Gabagools.
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Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC -
This is my interview with superstar trumpeter, Louis Dowdeswell. This interview was conducted November 20, 2020.
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Copy, rebroadcast, or any distribution on any platform without expressed consent is forbidden.
(C) 2024 Powell Music, LLC - Mehr anzeigen
