The Other Side Of The Bell - A Trumpet Podcast

Bob Reeves Brass Mouthpieces
  • 4.9 (195)
  • Performing Arts
  • Updated Semimonthly

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

  1. Kris Tiner: Improvise Something Every Day. Ep. 160

    8h ago

    Kris Tiner: Improvise Something Every Day. Ep. 160

    This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet educator, improviser and composer Kris Tiner, 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: "Kris Tiner Trumpet Interview" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here --- 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. About Kris Tiner: KRIS TINER is a California-based trumpet artist, composer, and educator. His music has been performed on five continents, his 100+ recordings have been enthusiastically reviewed in the international jazz press, and he has performance credits on MTV, NBC, PBS and Comedy Central. Tiner has received awards from ASCAP, the American Composers Forum, Chamber Music America, Montalvo Arts Center, and in 2023 was recognized as the CMEA statewide jazz educator of the year. He is a member of the Empty Cage Quartet with recordings on Portugal's Clean Feed label, and he collaborates with guitarist Mike Baggetta in the duo Tin/Bag. Tiner also performs with the Cathlene Pineda Quartet, Psychic Temple, the Industrial Jazz Group, and the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra. He is the Director of Jazz Studies at Bakersfield College, and has also taught at CalArts and CSU Bakersfield. Tiner is the founder of Epigraph Records, an independent label dedicated to new creative music recorded in Bakersfield. Episode Links: Sung, the new album: https://orendarecords.bandcamp.com/album/sung Website: www.kristiner.com Bandcamp: https://epigraph.bandcamp.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/kctiner Facebook: https://facebook.com/kctiner Instagram: @kris.tiner Bob Reeves Brass Events and Appearances: William Adam Trumpet Festival July 9-12, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Ill. Book your trumpet alignment here: https://trumpetmouthpiece.com/products/william-adam-trumpet-festival-valve-alignment-presale Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Photo Credits - AJ Rodriguez, Aviva Diamond, Talley Sherwood, Corey Stock Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

    1h 10m
  2. Gabriel Johnson: You've Got to be Real with People. Ep. 159

    Jun 10

    Gabriel Johnson: You've Got to be Real with People. Ep. 159

    This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet composer, performer and producer Gabriel Johnson, 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: "Gabriel Johnson Trumpet Interview" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here --- 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. About Gabriel Johnson:  Gabriel Johnson is an American jazz trumpeter whose lyrical sound and deep musical fluency have earned praise from artists, including David Foster, Clint Eastwood, and Chris Botti.  Gabe studied at New England Conservatory and then moved to Los Angeles and built a wide ranging career as a solo artist, session musician and featured performer. Recording and performing with artists such as Gladys Knight, Steven Tyler, David Foster, Chris Botti , Andrea Bocelli, Lyle Lovett, and Burt Bacharach, he was featured by Clint Eastwood as a trumpet soloist on the film scores for Changeling and Invictus, and has released a substantial catalog of recordings on his Sunset Horn label, blending jazz tradition with cinematic electronic and modern production influences. Episode Links: Website: www.gabrieljohnsonmusic.com Bandcamp: https://gabrieljohnson.bandcamp.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GJTrumpet Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gabriel-johnson/336452318 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gjtrumpet/?hl=en Bob Reeves Brass Events and Appearances: William Adam Trumpet Festival July 9-12, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Ill. Book your trumpet alignment here: https://trumpetmouthpiece.com/products/william-adam-trumpet-festival-valve-alignment-presale Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Photo Credits - Courtesty Brian Shaw and Equinox Publishing Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

    1h 30m
  3. Brian Shaw: Versatility, Baroque Trumpet and Serendipity. Ep. 158

    May 27

    Brian Shaw: Versatility, Baroque Trumpet and Serendipity. Ep. 158

    This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring historical, classical and jazz trumpeter 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: "Brian Shaw Trumpet Interview" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here --- Whether it's big band jazz, classical baroque, or any number of styles in between, Brian Shaw's trumpet career is a reflection of the word, "versatility." Brian is the type of musician who, when having trouble deciding whether to major in classical or jazz, decided to simply do both! Hence a double major in jazz studies and classical performance, which yes, did result in him having to do two senior recitals. But Brian embraced the challenge, just as he did in finishing his doctorate in one year instead of three, so that he would have more time to pursue all the various avenues he wanted to explore. Today, Brian pursues teaching, writing, performance, arrangement and more from his home base near Seattle, WA. And, as you'll know from our recent "Kenny Wheeler Special," he and Nick Smart recently collaborated on a biography of inspirational trumpeter Kenny Wheeler, Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler, which added published author to Brian's resume as well. Brian joins us today to talk about his early inspirations coming from a non-musical family in small town southern Illinois, to being the first in his family to attend college, taking control of your musical education, and the various stops and projects he's pursued along his trailblazing journey. 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. He 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. Brian has also served as guest Principal Trumpet of the Oregon Symphony, Kansas City Symphony, St. Louis Symphony, and Pacific Northwest Ballet Orchestra (US). A noted Baroque trumpet player, Shaw's 2008 recording Virtuoso Concertos for Clarino includes some of the most difficult pieces ever written for the instrument. Early Music America observed: "Shaw's tone is beautiful, and his playing unfailingly musical… His is a voice that will make a major mark on Baroque trumpet playing." His critically-acclaimed 2014 solo trumpet recording redshift was accompanied by the Dallas Wind Symphony and conductor Jerry Junkin. Brian has also released a collaborative album of classic recital pieces with pianist Jan Grimes called Sonatas and Fantasies: A Century of Standards for Trumpet and Piano, and has just completed another recording project called Virtuosic Versatility, outlining the history of the trumpet, from early music to modern jazz.  As a jazz musician, Brian plays solo and lead trumpet professionally in the Seattle area and leads a big band in Baton Rouge every December, which released a holiday-themed album titled Christmas at the Manship! in 2017. He is in demand as an arranger as well, with many scores for jazz band, brass ensemble, studio orchestra, and wind ensemble to his credit. Brian Shaw lives near Seattle with his wife Lana, their sons Thomas and Elliot, and their dog, Ernie. Episode Links: www.brianshawmusic.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/bshawmusic Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/brian-shaw/1564984803 Kenny Wheeler book: https://equinoxonlinelibrary.com/book/58282/song-for-someone Bob Reeves Brass Events and Appearances: William Adam Trumpet Festival July 9-12, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Ill. Book your trumpet alignment here: https://trumpetmouthpiece.com/products/william-adam-trumpet-festival-valve-alignment-presale Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Photo Credits - Courtesty Brian Shaw and Equinox Publishing Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

    1h 40m
  4. Thomas Gansch: Crafting Innovative Performances and Instruments! Ep. 157

    May 13

    Thomas Gansch: Crafting Innovative Performances and Instruments! Ep. 157

    This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet performer, composer and designer Thomas Gansch, 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: "Thomas Gansch Trumpet Interview" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here From his groundbreaking Mnozil Brass to his original take on a rotary valve trumpet, the "Gansch Horn," Thomas Gansch has made an indelible impact on professional music. Thomas joins us today to share his musical journey from a young boy, surrounded by instruments in a musician's family, to becoming a prominent trumpet player in Austria and beyond. He opens up quite honestly about his struggles with classical music education, and family expectations, before eventually making his transition towards jazz, which he embraced as part of his wide-range of musical interests. Growing up as the son of renowned Austrian composer Johann Gansch, and as the much younger brother of Hans Gansch, a prominent trumpet soloist and professor himself (and principal trumpeter of the Vienna Philharmonic), there was a lot of push and pull as both brothers sought their own place of identity, creativity and freedom to pursue their musical dreams. It was through humor and originality that Thomas truly found his wings, particularly with the Mnozil Brass septet, considered the "Monty Python of the musical world." Going strong since 1992, Mnozil forms just part of Thomas' busy schedule that comprises all sorts of musical styles and groups. And he gives us a tour of the original Gansch Horn, a rotary trumpet that can be played with one hand, which gives it its distinctive arced bell shape. Thomas worked directly with the noted Austrian manufacturer Schagerl in the early 2000's to create the horn that has become his identity. From practice routines to juggling gigs, jamming with Wynton Marsalis and Jerry Hey to looking after your body and mind, this is a wonderful conversation of breadth and inspiration! About Thomas Gansch: Thomas Gansch, born in 1975, has always successfully eluded any categorisation. Whether in the formation "Mnozil Brass", which he co-founded and with which he has been performing around the world for thirty years, in the legendary "Vienna Art Orchestra", as a soloist with a large orchestra or as part of a family theatrical ensemble with his wife Theresia and the joint programme "Doppelgansch", whether as a composer, arranger, compere, pop singer, big band leader or brass band conductor, the native of Lower Austria does not allow himself to be confined to any musical genre. He likes to summarise all varieties of his art under the term "music" that "either touches him or doesn't touch him" in order to put all prejudices to one side and to give listeners an intuitive approach to listening. Various projects have taken Gansch to over 45 countries and his first musical experiences in the brass band of his father Johann Gansch S. (1925 - 1998), which he - in the spirit of the gifted improviser - always integrates directly into his work. Today, Gansch draws on his wealth of artistic experience and also brings his engaging personality to every project, from symphony orchestras to chamber music ensembles, from jazz to new music, from pop acts to musical theatre and comedy programmes, into his performances. There are no hierarchies in his understanding of art, and so he manages to inspire and "pick up" the audience again and again. Episode Links: Mnozil Brass: https://mnozilbrass.at/en YouTube: @ThomasGanschOFFICIAL Instagram: @thomasgansch  Facebook: @thomasganschofficial  Bob Reeves Brass Events and Appearances: Next Up! Concert Series: Watch the live streamed premier of Dan Rosenboom's special composition, "In a World Like This," with the Los Angeles Brass Alliance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xfR6Gwtyw4 And stay tuned for the fully HD version coming soon! 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 Photo Credits - ©Daniela Matejschek Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

    1h 17m
  5. Star Wars Special, with the Star Wars Orchestra Trumpet Section! Ep. 156

    May 4

    Star Wars Special, with the Star Wars Orchestra Trumpet Section! Ep. 156

    This special episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring the trumpet section of the Star Wars Orchestra: Jon Lewis, Barry Perkins, David Washburn, Daniel Rosenboom, Jim Grinta and Rob Schaer, 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: "Star Wars Special" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here --- It's Star Wars Day, and wouldn't you know it, we have a a great way to celebrate: our live stream conversation with the members of the Star Wars Orchestra trumpet section! Joining us are  Jon Lewis, Barry Perkins, David Washburn, Daniel Rosenboom, Jim Grinta and Rob Schaer, who recorded the soundtrack for Episodes 7, 8 and 9 of the Star Wars universe. The only one missing in fact was Wayne Bergeron, who has made other appearances on The Other Side of the Bell, but that comes back to the backstory of getting this live stream together: The date was May 4th, 2020. We were in the depths of Covid lockdown. John Snell thought to himself that morning, "Maybe I'll see if my friend Jon Lewis is around and we can chat trumpet and Star Wars, and put out a little live stream." He got a hold of Jon, who basically said, "Hold my beer (or coffee) - " and an hour later had gathered six of the seven members of the section for a wholly spontaneous, gregarious conversation on recording techniques for orchestras, practice and warm up tips, playing for John Williams, and life during lockdown. So as much as this episode is a celebration of a remarkable series of films, and their iconic music, it's also a blast from the past of what life was like just a few years ago, and a chance to reflect on how things have changed since. Bob Reeves Brass Upcoming Events and Appearances: Next Up! Concert Series: Los Angeles Brass Alliance, with special composition by Dan Rosenboom Pasadena Presbyterian Church, May 9, 7:00 pm PDT https://www.labrassalliance.org/events/next-up-2026 Streaming link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xfR6Gwtyw4 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 Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

    1h 5m
  6. Song For Someone: The Musical Life of Kenny Wheeler. With Nick Smart & Brian Shaw. Ep. 155

    Apr 15

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

    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

    1h 39m
  7. Kellin Hanas: Find People who Align with You and Your Values, and Stick With Them. Ep. 154

    Apr 1

    Kellin Hanas: Find People who Align with You and Your Values, and Stick With Them. Ep. 154

    This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet performer, producer and creator Louis Dowdeswell, 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: "Kellin Hanas Trumpet Interview" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here It all started with a dream, at four years old: an actual dream, that sticks in her memory to this day.   Kellin Hanas is known for her social media presence, her combination of comedy and trumpet, and her recognition as a bright young star on the jazz trumpet circuit.   She joins us today to share her back story of having that first light bulb moment in a vivid dream, to then picking up the trumpet at seven years old and forcing the adults in the room to let her play it, and on through her years in elementary and high school, sharing the profound yet tragic story of her teacher and mentor. Someone who remains a tremendous influence.   Starting college at the Manhattan School of Music during the peak of COVID, Kellin navigated the bizarre and unprecedented challenges of those years with perseverance and grace, leading to professional contacts and opportunities right out of the gate.   But you probably recognize her most from her social media, which has gone viral to the tune of over 100,00 followers on Instagram and TikTok, thanks to her unique combination of professional jazz trumpet and stand-up comedy.   Learn all about the stories and inspirations that make up Kellin Hanas in this inspiring conversation!   About Kellin Hanas: Hailed in the International Trumpet Guild Journal as "one of the best up and coming jazz musicians on the globe", 24 year old Kellin Hanas is a trumpeter, composer, educator and comedian based out of New York City and Chicago. A recent graduate of the Manhattan School of Music, she has studied under legendary trumpeters such as Ingrid Jensen and Scott Wendholt. Kellin can currently be seen on tour with her own band, as well as The DIVA Jazz Orchestra, The Carnegie Hall Ensemble, the Grace Fox Big Band, Ted Nash Big Band, and actor and fashion legend Isaac Mizrahi. Kellin is also thrilled to be holding the trumpet chair for Heathers The Musical in NYC at New World Stages, and occasionally you can see her at Broadway's Just In Time as well. She is the recipient of the 2024 Laurie Frink Career Grant, and was also the 1st place winner of the 2024 ITG Ryan Anthony Memorial Jazz Improvisation Competition. Since 2022, Hanas has been the leader of her own band, the Kellin Hanas Quintet, which debuted in the upstairs of the iconic Birdland Jazz Club. Since then, she has taken her band to many venues and festivals, as well as colleges and universities around the US. An accomplished composer and arranger, her music has been performed across the country. She has also performed with celebrities such as Darren Criss, Titus Burgess, the Manhattan Transfer, and Michael Feinstein. As a side-woman, Hanas has shared the stage with many jazz legends, such as Sean Jones, Christian McBride, Melissa Aldana, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Chad LB, Ted Nash and Arturo Sandoval. Kellin was also a musician in the 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade with Jonathan Groff and the Just In Time Band.  As an educator, Hanas has been invited to several colleges, universities and festivals to perform and teach. Some past visits include Ohio State University, Louisiana State University, Kennesaw State University and University of Wisconsin Eau-Claire, as well as regional Essentially Ellington festivals. As of 2026, Hanas has released 3 books and 1 video course with Jazz Lesson Videos, and continues to create educational content with them. As of January 2026, Hanas has amassed a following of over 250k fans online, from her musical and comedic content. She hopes to use her platform to inspire, connect with others, and spread laughter and joy. Hanas is a Bach and Conn-Selmer endorsed artist. Episode Links: www.kellinhanas.com  TikTok Instagram  Bob Reeves Brass Upcoming Events and Appearances: Metropolitan Music, April 10-11, Kirkland, WA https://calendly.com/bobreevesbrass/metropolitan-music-valve-alignment-appointment  International Trumpet Guild, Washington Chapter, April 12, Bellingham, WA Valve alignments: First come, first served! Arkansas Trumpet Day, April 18th, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR Valve alignments: First come, first served!   Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Cover Photo Credit - Courtesy Kellin Hanas Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

    1h 7m
  8. Louis Dowdeswell: Finding Your "Why" for Playing Trumpet. Ep. 153

    Mar 18

    Louis Dowdeswell: Finding Your "Why" for Playing Trumpet. Ep. 153

    This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet performer, producer and creator Louis Dowdeswell, 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: "Louis Dowdeswell Trumpet Interview" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here   Louis Dowdeswell has an invitation for you, especially if you're embarking on a career as a professional musician:   Find your Why.   It may not be as obvious as you think!   It'll take time, hard work and introspection. But you're a trumpet player: you already know what that's like!   Louis joins us today for what evolves into a deep conversation with tremendous insight. This episode creeps up on you. As Louis' stories and perspectives sink in, it'll get you thinking.   He's a YouTube star, founder of a successful trumpet academy, and a productive working musician. But Louis has been through his share of doubts, challenges and uncertainties - he almost gave the trumpet up in 2023.   If though you've ever needed inspiration to do something, to just start, and ignore what anyone might say or think about it: listen to this episode. Louis' endearingly positive and thoughtful personality will help you along your way.   In the words of Tim McGraw: "When you get where you're going, turn back around and take a look. Help the next one in line. Always be humble and kind."   About Louis Dowdeswell: Louis Dowdeswell is one of the most in-demand trumpeters of his generation, known for his powerful lead playing, versatility, and distinctive sound. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music and later awarded Associate of the Royal Academy of Music (ARAM), he has built a career that bridges jazz, classical, pop, and film.   Louis performed lead trumpet on Michael Bublé's Grammy Award-winning track Higher and has played for King Charles at Buckingham Palace. His Louis Dowdeswell Big Band has attracted millions of listeners worldwide, with over 30 million views online.   As a performer, Louis has appeared with the London Symphony Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, and the BBC Concert Orchestra, and has played in numerous West End productions, including Wicked, Book of Mormon, Dreamgirls, and MJ the Musical. He has also shared the stage with artists such as Robbie Williams, Michael Bublé, Katherine Jenkins, Brian May, Teddy Swims, and Franz Ferdinand.   On the recording front, Louis has worked with Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Robbie Williams, Gary Barlow, Celeste, Seal, Michael Ball & Alfie Boe, and more. His trumpet can be heard on blockbuster films including James Bond – No Time To Die, Barbie, Aladdin, Cats, and Don't Look Up, where he was the featured soloist.   Louis is an International Conn Selmer / Vincent Bach Artist and the founder of Louis' Trumpet Academy, a global education platform awarded the Skool Games Q1 Prize for innovation in 2025.   He lives with his wife, Milly, an opera singer, and their two boys, Reggie and Stanley, grounding his busy career in faith and family.   Episode Links: www.louisdowdeswell.com www.worldoftrumpet.com YouTube Instagram Spotify  Bob Reeves Brass Upcoming Events and Appearances: National Trumpet Festival, March 20-22, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA https://trumpetmouthpiece.com/products/national-trumpet-competition-valve-alignment-special Metropolitan Music, April 10-11, Kirkland, WA https://calendly.com/bobreevesbrass/metropolitan-music-valve-alignment-appointment  Arkansas Trumpet Day, April 18th, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR   Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Cover Photo Credit - Courtesy Louis Dowdeswell Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

    1h 36m
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This podcast features trumpet tips, trumpet player interviews, and stories from Bob Reeves.

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