In The Other Side of the Bell trumpet podcast

Cameron Johnson Trumpet Interview – The Other Side of the Bell #166

Cameron Johnson Trumpet Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #166 of The Other Side of the Bell – A Trumpet Podcast. This episode features performer and recording artist Cameron Johnson.

Cameron Johnson has built a dynamic career as a professional trumpeter, touring internationally, leading big bands, and working across jazz, pop, R&B, and studio sessions.

Cameron recently came off the road touring with Lenny Kravitz on his Blue Electric Light tour, and we caught up with him at his home base in Los Angeles. Which in fact relates back to a central part of his story: the move from New York to LA, forging relationships, trusting his instincts and abilities, and making himself someone in demand. He explains the difference between jazz work, commercial work, and major pop tours, and why each requires a different kind of stamina, confidence, and preparation.

We reflect on the discipline behind great playing, the realities of life on the road, staying physically and mentally prepared for demanding performances, and why genuine relationships matter as much as talent. Cameron shares how he learned trumpet mostly by ear, developed his reading later, and built a career by combining musicianship with business sense, consistency, and genuine relationships.

His core advice: talent is not enough, the real edge is learning how to out think the competition while staying honest and building trust.

I’ve  had the gift of good relationships, and I’ve always been around good people that wanted to see me do well. That’s very important when you’re  trying to make something out of any business. You have to figure out who’s for you, who’s against you, who’s going to tell you what you need to hear, who’s going to tell you why you’re not getting that call. So I’d rather be around honest people, and I try to pride myself of being honest with people too.” – Cameron Johnson

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In The Trombone Corner trombone podcast

Fred Wesley Trombone Interview – Trombone Corner #51

Fred Wesley Trombone Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #51 of the Trombone Corner podcast. This episode features trombonist, band leader and recording artist Fred Wesley.

He’s one of the trailblazers of funk, the man who helped define the sound of James Brown, Parliament and Funkadelic, working with Maceo Parker and Bootsy Collins, amongst so many more.

But he didn’t set out to be known as “Funky Fred.” In fact, the funk came to him very much by accident. Jazz was his first love: JJ Johnson, Kai Winding, Carl Fontana, Miles Davis – Fred knew every note Kind of Blue.

Fred Wesley joins Noah and John to talk about his path from a musically rich childhood in Mobile, Alabama to becoming one of the defining trombone voices in funk and jazz. We learn about the early gigs that shaped him, the demands of touring with Ike & Tina Turner, James Brown and George Clinton, and how he later returned to jazz and big band work.

Along the way, Fred learned tons of practical advice that he shares with younger players: learn your instrument, learn the business, and show up prepared.

Fred continues to record and tour, including shows this fall in Europe and Australia, and he shares the recent work with his Fred Wesley Generations Trio featuring Leonardo Corradi and Tony Match. Truly an inspiration to generations of musicians, and a man who put the trombone on the map!

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In The Other Side of the Bell trumpet podcast

Dr. Chris Keach Trumpet Interview – The Other Side of the Bell #165

Dr. Chris Keach Trumpet Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #165 of The Other Side of the Bell – A Trumpet Podcast. This episode features educator, performer and composer Dr. Christopher Keach.

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

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In The Trombone Corner trombone podcast

Callum Au Trombone Interview – Trombone Corner #50

Callum Au Trombone Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #50 of the Trombone Corner podcast. This episode features British trombonist, composer and arranger Callum Au.

It was an accident of school band placement that has led to a brilliant musical career, and brought Callum Au to our stages and speakers. Because he could reach the sixth position when other kids couldn’t, Callum’s music teacher suggested the trombone, and the rest is history.

The National Youth Jazz Orchestra gave Callum a practical education in arranging, writing around 120 charts, hearing them played immediately, and learning what worked in real time. Callum credits much of his growth not just to formal lessons, but to sitting next to experienced players like Jon Stokes and Andy Flaxman and learning from their sound, phrasing, etiquette, and professionalism. Indeed, you’ll never guess what he studied for his university degree!

Today, Callum is a leader and inspiration himself, collaborating with international artists on Grammy-winning albums, and writing and recording his own material, including the stunning new release, Sing Seven Seas.

Our conversation today also unlocks the secret of arranging and transcribing: the surest path to a sustainable, successful and influential career.

And check out the latest episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpeter James Davison, a frequent collaborator with Callum Au.

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In The Other Side of the Bell trumpet podcast

James Davison Trumpet Interview – The Other Side of the Bell #164

James Davison Trumpet Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #164 of The Other Side of the Bell – A Trumpet Podcast. This episode features trumpet performer, band leader and recording artist James Davison.

James Davison had a misconception that trumpeters should only have one mouthpiece, that any professional should be able to do everything with only one, and if you used more you were “cheating.”

It was Chris Deacon in fact who finally asked him one day, in a moment of struggle, “ Why don’t you just try a slightly narrower mouthpiece?”

From there, a whole new world opened up.

Jim was already well on a path to building a career in music, having become enraptured by the trumpet and cornet as a child, playing Dixieland jazz with his father and learning to play by ear, and then studying at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Royal Academy of Music.

But sometimes, we just need a little kick, a new perspective from an outside source, to shift our understanding and mindset.

Since that crossroads, Jim has gone on to become a regular player in the British music scene, from musicals and big bands to studio sessions film soundtracks. Earlier this year, Jim released his long-awaited trumpet & bass collaboration with Misha Mullov-Abbado, “Moon Beans,” a mix of original compositions and collaborative arrangements. And he features on Callum Au’s ambitious new recording of original music, “Sing Seven Seas.”

“If you sing down the horn and you make people smile, and there’s a connection for the audience with your playing, then I think that’s the only thing that really matters.” – James Davison

In fact, Callum Au is also this month’s feature interview on The Trombone Corner podcast, so after you’ve heard Jim’s story, head over to the Corner and hear from Callum as well!

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In The Other Side of the Bell trumpet podcast

Liva Strazdina Trumpet Interview – The Other Side of the Bell #163

Liva Strazdina Trumpet Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #163 of The Other Side of the Bell – A Trumpet Podcast. This episode features trumpet performer, composer and recording artist Liva Strazdina.

Liva Strazdina made the decision to pursue post-secondary studies in jazz music, and had been accepted to the Carl Maria von Weber Dresden University of Music, but there remained one crucial thing that she had to tackle first:

Changing her embouchure.

She had heard the suggestions before, the recommendations to do something about it before it got worse and created excessive fatigue. But the time had come.

Liva was guided by the acclaimed yet demanding instructor Malte Burba, showing her breathing and muscle-building techniques that embraced the full body, not just the lips, mouth and lungs. Which led to Liva spending a solid three months practicing with only a mouthpiece, while her new classmates were progressing with her studies. Undoubtedly a test of perseverance and commitment!

Liva compares her training to that of an athlete, who must see the bigger picture and the ultimate trajectory, particularly during the repetitive and even painful days of practice and repetition.

Fortunately for her, and all of us, her commitment has led to a burgeoning career in jazz music, and the debut of her first album, Unbalanced, featuring a mixture of original compositions and interpretations. Listen in for a thoughtful conversation, and a thoughtful album, about trumpet, creativity, resilience, and building a life in music.

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In The Other Side of the Bell trumpet podcast

CJ Camerieri Trumpet Interview – The Other Side of the Bell #162

CJ Camerieri Trumpet Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #162 of The Other Side of the Bell – A Trumpet Podcast. This episode features trumpet performer, ensemble leader and recording artist CJ Camerieri.

“If you want to have a career in this, you have to know why you’re the right person to call, and why you have a skill set that’s exactly right for this particular thing. It’s hard to make a living at it if they can just hire a different person and pay ’em less.” – CJ Camerieri

Julliard grad, Grammy winner, collaborator with Bon Iver, Paul Simon, Rufus Wainwright, Sufjan Stevens, Ben Folds, Bruce Hornsby and so many more, CJ Camerieri is the personification of passion: starting piano lessons at 4 years old and never looking back.

But it’s one thing to be music-obsessed from childhood, it’s another to forge a successful, sustainable career in a cutthroat industry. Our conversation today is a fascinating and introspective look into the the business side of music: the back end, the royalties, the songwriting credits, the mindset and the versatility required to succeed and thrive.

For CJ, this has meant being adaptable, embracing different styles of music, being open to change and doing things that others may be less interested in.

But also, always, doing it for joy, not just a paycheque. You’ll rarely meet someone more passionate about trying new things and taking on new challenges. Hence the formation in 2008 of yMusic, “A chamber ensemble with a unique mission: to work on both sides of the classical/popular music divide, without sacrificing rigor, virtuosity, charisma or style.”

The threads of yMusic are woven throughout our conversation today. Transitioning to a new music scene can reignite your passion, while touring teaches practical lessons about maintaining your craft. CJ will inspire you with his insight and innovation!

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In The Other Side of the Bell trumpet podcast

Nick Smart Trumpet Interview – The Other Side of the Bell #161

Nick Smart Trumpet Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #161 of The Other Side of the Bell – A Trumpet Podcast. This episode features trumpet educator, conductor and performer Nick Smart.

When Nick Smart was a teenager in Toddington, England, a retired professional trumpet player bought a local pub and turned it into a venue for daily jazz performances, from big band to traditional, mainstream and more, 8 shows per week. Nick was hooked, and set off on a career in music.

But although that career has involved lots of composing, performing, touring and recording, he ultimately found his passion (and a steady gig) as an educator, eventually becoming Head of Jazz Programmes at the Royal Academy of Music in London.

Nick is thus in excellent position to give us solid advice on not just being a student in higher education, but pursuing a career as a professional music educator. Nick’s approach is carefully centred around what will ultimately be of best service to students, and understanding your role as the member of an academic department.

How do you prepare for such roles? Like any job application, do your research, read the posting carefully, and identify what they are looking for.

But for music specifically, there are further nuances. Do you understand the role and placement of the department within the broader community? What are their objectives and priorities when it comes to music education and reputation? What do they want to be known for? How would you fit into that scene?

As a student applicant, remember that a program may not be judging you so much on your ability as to how well you’ll work together with others, and integrate into the spirit of the program.

We talk about jazz education, music theory, the construct of scales and arpeggios, and understanding structure: to then dance and improvise around that structure. That’s what makes theory so fascinating.

Nick was with us recently alongside Brian Shaw, talking about their recent biography of Kenny Wheeler: Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler 

Now, they’ve each had their own spotlight on The Other Side of the Bell, make sure to check out both episodes! Brian Shaw: Versatility, Baroque Trumpet and Serendipity. Ep. 158

“As an educator, get your ego out of the way too.  It’s about the  students and it’s about their range of experience and what you’re into doesn’t have to be important. It’s only part of it.” – Nick Smart

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In The Other Side of the Bell trumpet podcast

Kris Tiner Trumpet Interview – The Other Side of the Bell #160

Kris Tiner Trumpet Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #160 of The Other Side of the Bell – A Trumpet Podcast. This episode features trumpet educator, improviser and composer Kris Tiner.

How do you turn improvisation into an album, without taking forever to finish? How do you know when it’s ready and complete?

Kris Tiner has been improvising his whole life, in fact, he would point out that we all are:  ”We’re all improvising right now. You get up and walk to the door, and which room do you go into next? That’s an improvisation. What are you going to have for dinner?  You get in your car and you drive down the highway, that’s an improvisation.”

Improvisation is a natural state of being for musicians, just witness when kids pick up an instrument and start exploring.

But as adults (and professional recording musicians), well, time is money, the album’s gotta get released, and you’ve got to decide when to stamp that recording and send it out into the zeitgeist.

Kris shares some of the fascinating mindset of recording improvisational jazz pieces, as reflected on his brand new album, “Sung,” a collaboration with pianist Cathlene Pineda.

We also talk about the experience of providing music education in a small city, not a big urban hub, and the connections and community that can be found therein. Kris teaches trumpet, jazz, composition and improvisation as Professor of Music at Bakersfield College in California, helping students gain access to music and opportunities that they may not receive otherwise.

Of whom one of those students was himself, having embarked on his musical education at CSU Bakersfield in the 1990s. A full circle journey, indeed.

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In The Horn Signal french horn podcast

David Cooper Horn Interview – Horn Signal #17

David Cooper Horn Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #17 of Horn Signal! This episode features an interview with Los Angeles Philharmonic associate principal horn, David Cooper.

About David Cooper

David Cooper is recognized as one of the best horn players of his generation, known for his lyrical phrasing and exceptional technique. He was appointed Principal Horn of the New York Philharmonic in May 2026 by Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel.

Cooper’s orchestral career began as Acting Principal Horn with the Victoria Symphony and Co-Associate Principal Horn of the Fort Worth Symphony. He then served as Principal Horn of the Dallas Symphony (joining as Third Horn in 2011 and becoming Principal Horn in 2013), Solo Horn of the Berlin Philharmonic,  Principal Horn of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Associate Principal Horn of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

He has won Principal Horn positions with the National Symphony Orchestra (2013) and the San Francisco Symphony (2023), and has been guest Principal Horn with numerous orchestras worldwide, including the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Hong Kong Philharmonic, Seoul Philharmonic, Sinfónica de Minería in Mexico, Liceu Opera in Barcelona, London Symphony Orchestra, Utopia Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, Baltimore Symphony, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. He joined the Oslo Philharmonic on its 2024 European Tour as Principal Horn under Chief Conductor Klaus Mäkelä.

Cooper maintains an active schedule as an international soloist, recitalist, chamber musician, and festival orchestra performer. He has also participated in numerous film and TV soundtracks, including the most recent Superman, Moana 2, Hoppers, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and The Mandalorian and Grogu.

Dedicated to inspiring and cultivating the next generation of musicians, Cooper coaches and presents masterclasses internationally. He founded Horns for Hope, Inc., a non-profit supporting young musicians in underserved communities, and served as Artist Faculty at Roosevelt University and the Civic Orchestra of Chicago.

Born in Lansing, Michigan, into a musical family, Cooper began horn studies with Dr. Dale Bartlett and joined the Michigan State University Orchestra while in high school. He received his Bachelor’s degree from The Curtis Institute of Music, where he received a Tanglewood Fellowship, and spent three summers at Marlboro Music Festival. His primary instructors are Jerome Ashby and Eric Ruske.

Cooper’s discography includes the album “Berkeley, Brahms, Leshnoff: Horn Trios” with violinist Alexander Kerr and pianist Orion Weiss, and two solo albums, “Impressions” and “A French Horn and Piano Collaboration” with pianist Cary Chow. These are available on all streaming platforms.

David Cooper Links

Podcast Credits

  • “Haydn Symphony #31 “Horn Signal““, “Hornpipe” Water Music by Handel and “Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral” from Wagner’s Lohengrin
  • Audio Engineer – Preston Shepard
  • Cover Art – Meg Ryia
  • Podcast Hosts – John Snell and Preston Shepard

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In The Other Side of the Bell trumpet podcast

Gabriel Johnson Trumpet Interview – The Other Side of the Bell #159

Gabriel Johnson Trumpet Interview

Welcome to the show notes for Episode #159 of The Other Side of the Bell – A Trumpet Podcast. This episode features trumpet composer, performer and producer Gabriel Johnson.

Gabriel Johnson went to the Monterey Jazz Festival at 9 years old – by himself – and witnessed Dizzy Gillespie and Freddie Hubbard on stage.

He went home, switched instruments to the trumpet, and the rest is history.

Gabe learned to play the trumpet by ear, playing along to Miles Davis, learning “the excitement inside the sadness.” A glimmer of hope for Gabe during a difficult childhood. Self taught until later in high school, it wasn’t until he was at the New England Conservatory when he learned that what seemed second-nature all along was in fact perfect pitch.

A chance encounter with Chris Botti on Gabe’s last night in Boston before moving to Los Angeles led to a friendship of over 20 years, and pivotal connections including meeting the manager of Blood, Sweat & Tears, who invited him to be the band’s musical director for a year. From hanging out with Clint Eastwood and Robert Redford, to learning recording techniques and producer psychology from David Foster, Gabe has built a remarkable career full of originality and spontaneity, covering soundtracks, jazz, pop and more.

With AI creeping into musicians’ livelihood, Gabriel has some pertinent advice: individual artist expression is something that can never be replicated, whether by artificial intelligence or another human. Be yourself, be creative, be original. The rest will follow.

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