Welcome to the show notes for Episode #52 of the Trombone Corner podcast. This episode of features orchestral trombonist, arranger and composer Gerry Pagano.

From a kid digging out his dad’s old trombone case from the closet to 27 years in the St. Louis Symphony, Gerry Pagano shares the hard-won lessons, detours, and lucky breaks that shaped one of the most beloved bass trombonists in the game.

Gerry has great stories, sharp advice, and the kind of honesty only a veteran can deliver. He talks about the “practice at home” wake-up call that changed how he interacted with his fellow musicians, the teachers and colleagues who pushed him forward, and the years freelancing in Georgia, New York and San Francisco before landing the stable orchestral life he had chased.

We also dig into understanding great orchestral playing, the mindset required to thrive as a bass trombone player, and how retirement opened the door to composing, recording, and freelancing again.

And because this is Trombone Corner, there’s plenty for gear fans too: vintage Conns, a favorite Bach 42, an Edwards, contrabass adventures, and a love letter to old horns, music memories, and the sound of a truly great section.

Just a couple of the memorable quotes from Gerry:

“We gave up a really creative, interesting, humorous name for our instrument when we gave up sackbut… Imagine if you could say, ‘I play the sackbut.’ That would have a totally different impact!”

“Before you ever play an instrument, you’re a musician or you’re not. It’s inside of us… You can always learn an instrument, but music has to be a part of you to begin with.”