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Chase Revisited II
August 28, 2010

Attention all CHASE fans! Members of the jazz-rock group, CHASE, will be reuniting for a concert to be held in Boston on Thursday, October 14, 2010. The band will feature members Alan Ware, Joe Morrissey, Jim Oatts (tpts), Phil Porter (keyboards), Dennis Johnson (bass), Jay Burrid and Gary Smith (drums), and GG Shinn (vocals). Special guest artist will be MF alumni and Sony recording artist Eric Miyashiro on lead trumpet.

In addition to playing a number of favorites such as Get It On, Open Up Wide, and So Many People, Chase Revisited 2010 will perform a number of never recorded charts including Listen To Her Sing and MacArthur Park.

The concert will be performed Boston's premier club, RAIN Nightlife on Route 99 in Malden, Mass. (just 10 minutes north of Boston's Logan airport). The concert will begin at 8:00 p.m. and doors will open at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at www.AceTicket.com (look under "Concerts" and search for "CHASE Revisited"). Purchased tickets are will-call at the club so please bring proper identification.

Don't miss this historic reunion of the CHASE band on October 14th!

Click here to view the poster for the event
Click here for the Facebook event

   

Sleepy Night Records Announces Previously Unreleased Don Ellis Recordings
August 4, 2010

Don Ellis India CDSleepy Night Records, the same company who brought us the Maynard Ferguson Lost Tapes Volumes 1 and 2 CDs, are releasing a Don Ellis CD titled "Live in India", which features 7 tracks that have never before been released. These tracks (that come from Don's personal tapes) were recorded during a 1978 Live appearance in India. The CD comes with a 20 page deluxe booklet full of photos and comments from band members.

This CD is being sold as a limited edition of only 1000 copies worldwide. Sleepy Night Records is a small, independent record label, and as a special thank you to Maynard Ferguson fans for their past support, they are offering a special deal on this CD. For the first two weeks, they have reduced the price to $19.99. After this offer period the price will go up to $24.99. Visit the Sleepy Night Records web site for more details.

 

    

Andrea Tofanelli's "Flamingo" Features Tribute to Maynard
July 17, 2010

Andrea Tofanelli's Flamingo CDFlamingo is Italian trumpeter Andrea Tofanelli's latest CD, featuring exciting big band charts and a heart-felt tribute to Maynard titled "The Last Legend".

Excerpts from AllAboutJazz.com's review: "
The title track could have come right from the Ferguson/Stan Kenton songbook, while the inclusion of showcase selections such as 'Nessun Dorma' and 'Melodia Infinita' frame Tofanelli's high-note chops in a display of all-around-the-horn musicianship. Not since Maynard Ferguson (for whom Tofanelli composed and performs 'The Last Legend') reigning at the Olympus of trumpeting have such sounds been heard.

"Ferguson, Anderson and Brisbois must be smiling in the 'Upper Room,' knowing that the screaming torch passed on is in such marvelously talented and musically artistic hands. Tofanelli can easily add his name to these greats in the pantheon of scream. While music lovers and musicians of all instruments will probably dig the artistry here, trumpeters will surely sit in awe of the talent, skill and musicianship of Andrea Tofanelli. A sky-high phenomenon."

Available now in the Maynard Ferguson store!

  

Jim Manley's New CD is a Return to the 70s
June 28, 2010

Jim Manley's "Brass Poison"Jim Manley's new CD is a throwback to the 70's. He says:

"BRASS POISON" follows in the footsteps of my last recording for The Victoria Company, "EIGHT" which was a tribute to some of the great 60's big bands.
With this project, I wanted to explore some of the great music that was put out in the 70's and beyond. I grew up listening to all the MF and Don Ellis Columbia stuff along with Blood, Sweat & Tears, Chicago, Tom Scott, the Brecker Brothers and so many others - I still love that era and it brings back many great memories when music seemed more creative and exciting.

We've added a little Brass Poison to Elton John, Carole King, Sting, The Isley Brothers and a few others I think you will recognize. All of us had a blast (no pun intended) recording these tunes and I think you'll have some fun listening.
So turn up the volume, sit down between the speakers ,or stick your buds in your ears and hold on to something!

Now available in the Maynard Ferguson store!

  

Photos from the Sherman Jazz Museum Grand Opening and UNT Concert
May 15, 2010

Thanks to Kamalan Selvarajah for providing these excellent pictures from the Sherman Jazz Museum Grand Opening and the University of North Texas One O'Clock Band concert with guests Denis Diblasio and Wayne Bergeron!

You can read several recaps of the event on the Maynard Ferguson Forum.

   

Maynard Ferguson Frisbees now in the Maynard Ferguson Store
May 15, 2010

A batch of Maynard Ferguson frisbees were recently found, leftovers from a late 90s tour! While supplies last, you can buy them in the Maynard Ferguson Store!
Maynard Ferguson Frisbee

   

The Maynard Ferguson Birthday Tribute on WCSK-FM 90.3
May 2, 2010

Once again, WCSK-FM 90.3 in Kingsport, Tennesee is planning to feature Maynard's music. Don't live in the East Tennessee area? No problem...you can stream the program online. They write:

Vote for Maynard!
The Maynard Ferguson Birthday Tribute on
WCSK-FM 90.3
May 4, 2010

May 4th, primary election day in Kingsport, Tennessee. It is also the 82nd birthday of the Boss, Maynard Ferguson. So, cast your vote for Maynard by tuning into WCSK-FM for special programming featuring some of Maynard's best stuff

We'll be running one Maynard tune each hour during the day, highlighting various aspects of Maynard's career. The regular WCSK Jazz/Big Band programming, from 11 AM 10 1 PM (EDT), will consist of two of the finest albums from Maynard's Roulette period-"A Message from Newport" (1958) and "A Message from Maynard" (1963).

Then, at 6 PM WCSK will run 6 consecutive hours of Maynard material, including two fine examples of Maynard on valve trombone, Maynard performing with Charlie Barnett and Bob Keene Big Bands in the 1950s as well as the MF Horn 1 album, the 1964 Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab version of "The Blues Roar", and the first Big Bop Nouveau album from 1990.

So, tune in on Tuesday, May 4, and Vote for Maynard! on WCSK-FM 90.3, the Voice of Kingsport City Schools. And if you don't happen to live in East Tennessee to hear us over the airwaves, join us via the internet at:

http://kingsport.schoolfusion.us/modules/groups/homepagefiles/cms/940474/File/playlist.m3u?sessionid=61573f0e042d8e36dd46f38ea958b388

Questions? Contact Station Manager Jeff Hall (jhall@k12k.com), and Long Live the Boss!


   

Introducing the Maynard Ferguson Podcast!
April 11, 2010

Podcast LogoIntroducing the Maynard Ferguson Podcast! Hosted by Matt Keller, the Maynard Ferguson podcast will feature many topics in the Maynardsphere, including interviews with alumni, album reviews, current events, and music, music, music. The premiere episode includes some Maynard news as well as a multitude of sound clips. Podcasts thrive on word of mouth, so if you enjoy it, please spread the word.

Subscribe on iTunes, or visit the Maynard Ferguson Podcast page to see details about the episodes.

Email podcast (at) MaynardFerguson.com to provide feedback and ideas for future episodes.

   

 

  

Sherman Jazz Museum Opens with the Maynard Ferguson Estate Collection
April 11, 2010

On May 8, 2010, the Sherman Jazz Museum (in Sherman, Texas) will open its doors and display the Maynard Ferguson Estate collection. The Grand Opening begins at 10:00 AM with free admission, and the museum will host two panel discussions. The first (at 11:00) features Stan Mark, Lou Carfa, Brian Mulholland, Jeff Taylor, and Bob Odneal. The second (at 2:00) features Wayne Bergeron, Denis DiBlasio and Steve Wiest.

After a day of investigating the MF collection and listening to the panel discussions, you can listen to the Grammy-nominated University of North Texas One O'Clock Lab Band perform charts from the MF estate collection along with guests Wayne Bergeron, Denis DiBlasio, & Grammy-nominated Steve Wiest (Director).

Visit the Sherman Jazz Museum web site for more details and some photos of the collection.

  

Tribute Concerts Galore in May!
April 11, 2010

May is a popular month for Maynard Ferguson tribute concerts, with three concerts in the first 8 days of May!

May 1, 2010
What: Maynard Ferguson Birthday Bash Concert
Where: Chris' Jazz Cafe - Sansom St, Philadelphia PA
Who: John Hoey Orchestra with guests Denis DiBlasio, Reggie Watkins, Dennis Noday.
Ticket Info: 215-568-3131 or John Hoey Orchestra web site
Details: Come experience the high energy big band jazz that only Maynard Ferguson and his band could deliver on what would have been his 82nd birthday. The alumni will be backed by the John Hoey Orchestra. There may even be some surprises.

May 6, 2010
What: Frank Vardaros Jazz Orchestra Plays the Music of Maynard Ferguson
Where: Gateway Center for the Arts - DeBary, Florida
Who: Frank Vardaros Jazz Orchestra
Ticket Info: $15 at the door. More details at the Gateway Center for the Arts web site.
Details: The Frank Vardaros Jazz Orchestra will pay tribute to Maynard by performing the music from the Live at Jimmy's album.

May 8, 2010
What: Maynard Ferguson Celebration Concert (following the opening of the Sherman Jazz Museum, featuring the MF Estate Collection)
Where: Kidd-Key Auditorium - Sherman, Texas
Who: the Grammy-nominated University of North Texas One O'Clock Lab Band. Guest performers: Wayne Bergeron, Denis DiBlasio, & Grammy-nominated Steve Wiest, Director.
Ticket Info: TicketLeap.com
Details: Calendar of Events at the Sherman Jazz Museum web site.

  

Maynard Ferguson and Social Media
March 7, 2010

The use of social media technology has increased dramatically over the past couple of years, and MaynardFerguson.com has been using Twitter and Facebook to spread Maynard-related information more frequently. To demonstrate the power of these tools, consider this statistic. It took MaynardFerguson.com 9 years to build up a mailing list of 3,500 email addresses to send email updates to. However, in less than a year, the Maynard Ferguson Facebook page has amassed over 9,000 followers. The MaynardFerguson.com Twitter feed has also been adding subscribers at a slower but still steady rate.

If you're not currently following the Maynard Ferguson Facebook page, I would highly encourage you to join. It's a great place to follow Maynard (and alumni) news, meet other fans, and share photos. The MaynardFerguson Facebook page is a very positive place, without the negativity that can sometimes plague traditional message boards.

Last week, the Maynard Ferguson Institute of Jazz Studies at Rowan University (currently helmed by Denis Diblasio) created their own Facebook page, with some great videos and information.

Check out the Maynard Social Media sites:

  

Alumnus Update: Ed Sargent
March 7, 2010

Since Maynard's passing nearly four years ago, Ed has been working with Joan Jett, helping to make sure her tours and day to day operations run smoothly. In talking with Ed over the past few years, I've learned that while many aspects of the job are very similar to his work with Maynard, it's a very different scene.

Joan's demand has been on the rise lately, thanks to the impending release of the film "The Runaways", starting Kristin Stewart and Dakota Fanning. The Runaways chronicles Joan's early career and the impact she made on rock and roll. Ed will be making a trip to Los Angeles this week, as Joan Jett and the Blackhearts will be performing on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno on Tuesday, March 9. Tune in...you never know, you might see Ed standing in the wings!

    

  

Alumnus Update: Reggie Watkins
March 7, 2010

Former Maynard Ferguson trombone player and musical director Reggie Watkins has just released an EP with his horn section called the Grooveline Horns. He says:

The Grooveline Horns have just independently released their debut EP featuring two original songs titled, "Copchase"(included on Jason Mraz’s most recent live album release) and "I'm Done." The EP also features two covers, "One the Serious Side" a new twist to Tower of Powers 1975 release and one of Con Funk Shun’s greatest hits "Ffun."

Listening to the sound clips at the Grooveline Horns web site, it's clear that this EP is full of some serious funk. You can visit http://groovelinehorns.bandcamp.com to order a limited edition physical copy of the EP for $5 or digital download for only $4.

   

Carl Fischer Releases Sophomore Solo Effort
December 31, 2009

Former Maynard Ferguson trumpeter (and fan favorite) Carl Fischer has been busy touring with Billy Joel for the past few years. Fortunately, he found time to record a new solo album, titled "Adverse Times". It features an original song dedicated to Maynard and his wife Flo titled "Flo N Mayn Spirit". This album is currently available on iTunes.

 

   

Rebel Alliance Jazz Ensemble and MF Alumni to Play MF Tribute
December 31, 2009

The Rebel Alliance Jazz Ensemble is a group of Dallas-area musicians that are made up of UNT grads and professional musicians. On Friday, January 8, some special guests and former Maynard Ferguson sidemen will join them for a Maynard Ferguson tribute at the Pearl at Commerce club in Dallas, Texas. Among the guests scheduled to appear are former Maynard Ferguson trumpeters Scott Englebright, Brian MacDonald, Ken Edwards, and Keith Fiala.

Details about the club and showtimes are available at the Pearl at Commerce club website.
Details about the performers and set list are available in the Maynard Ferguson Forum.

Pearl at Commerce club logo

   

  

Fresh Sounds Spain Re-issues (again) Two Maynard Albums
December 31, 2009

Record company Fresh Sounds Spain is once again reissuing two excellent Maynard albums as a double CD set. "Maynard Ferguson Plays Bill Holman's Arrangements" and "I Have But Two Horns" are available as a pre-order import at Amazon right now, with a release date of January 5, 2010.

  Album Cover

From the Fresh Sounds Records web site:

Until the early 50’s, Maynard Ferguson's fantastic technique was often said to obscure every other aspect of his work. With the tracks at hand, he revealed himself as a fine all-round musician, band leader and brilliant soloist, both in trumpet and valve trombone. Bill Homan–whose works can be considered as some of the most representative of the West Coast school of jazz–once said, "I've always tried to write things that sound like jazz, not like Bach revisited." Thanks to his arrangements and to the exceptional musicians who perform them, Ferguson expresses himself in a way he had never previously found possible.

See the full track listing and pre-order at Amazon.com.

 

  

Coming in 2011 - Maynard Ferguson Park
December 31, 2009

According to the Quebec newspaper, The Suburban, construction will soon begin on Maynard Ferguson park, with an anticipated opening of 2011. The park is being constructed in Verdun, Canada, where Maynard was born and raised.

During a recent Verdun borough council meeting, Mayor Claude Trudel told APRIDS (Association des Propriétaires et Résidents de l’Île Des Soeurs) President Pierre Jobin work would soon begin on the borough’s new park located near the posh Pointe du Sud district on Nuns’ Island. City jazz fans will be pleased to know the borough intends to name its new park after the world famous jazz musician, Maynard Ferguson, who was born and raised in Verdun.

The entire article is available here.

 

  

Alumni Update
November 27, 2009

Former Maynard Ferguson and Big Bop Nouveau trumpeter Walter White (he appeared on the "Live From London" album) recently played with the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra, eliciting a rave review from the Tulsa World web site.

White was first a fan, then a protégé of the late Maynard Ferguson, and one could easily hear that influence in the often aggressive attack, the piercing, sustained high notes and the sense of happy exuberance in White's playing in tunes such as "Sweet Georgia Brown" and "Stompin' at the Savoy."

Read the entire article at Tulsa World.

Former 1970s Maynard Ferguson saxophonist Bobby Militello has been playing with Dave Brubeck's band for over 25 years, and was recently featured in a great article on rocnow.com.

Militello is a force on stage. The burly man has no shortage of oxygen as he braids long strings of notes into intricate and unapologetically melodic solos. He finds the right moments, despite the web of harmonies underneath, to jump octaves, trill or splat in such a way that elicits wows from his audiences. And then he does it on a flute, the most feared auxiliary instrument for a saxophonist.

Read the entire article at rocnow.com.

Former Maynard Ferguson lead trumpeter (and current Harry Connick, Jr. lead trumpeter) Roger Ingram has been providing some fascinating insight into the recording of the "Live From London" CD on the Maynard Ferguson Forum, in response to a question from a fan.

Excerpt:

That particular record was a difficult one to do. At the time, there was a heat wave occurring in England. During the entire week we recorded, London was experiencing triple digit temperatures. Because of the relatively small size of Ronnie Scott's, the suboptimal "air conditioning," and the fact the club was standing room only, in that heat, attempts to play in tune became VERY challenging (to say the least.) As I'm sure we all know, in high temperature environments, brass and reed instruments have a tendency to play sharp whereas stringed instruments will go flat: nice combination. ;-) As well, the acoustical nature of Ronnie's is very "dead." I remember sitting in Maynard's dressing room and drinking loads of water with him between sets. Of course, then I had to visit the men's room a lot. Unfortunately I couldn't always do that when I wanted to, because I'd be playing...you know...high A's. ;-)

Read the entire thread on the Maynard Ferguson Forum.

 

Four Doc Severinsen Re-Issues In the Maynard Ferguson Store
October 31, 2009

Wounded Bird Records, the same company that has re-issued more than 10 Maynard Ferguson albums, is in the process of releasing six previously out-of-print Doc Severinsen albums on CD. The first four are "Doc," "Brass Roots," "Rhapsody For Now!" and "Night Journey". I know many Maynard fans out there (like myself) who are also fans of Doc's music, so I have stocked the first four Doc re-issues in the Maynard Ferguson store. You can find them on the Music Merchandise page, under the "Other CDs of Interest" heading.

 

Trumpeter Dan McMillion Releases "Nice N' Juicy"
October 10, 2009

Trumpeter Dan McMillion has paid tribute to Maynard Ferguson over the years by releasing several albums full of his music. His latest, "Nice N' Juicy", features several charts made famous by Maynard's band, including "MacArthur Park," "Surviving Soho," "Hey Jude," and "Vita Bella". AllAboutJazz.com recently profiled Dan and his new album. "Nice N' Juicy" can be purchased form the Sea Breeze Jazz web site.

Joey Pero - Resonance

 

Former Big Bop Nouveau Trumpeter's Debut Album Collecting Praise
October 10, 2009

Joey Pero - ResonanceFormer MF Trumpet Joey Pero's debut album, "Resonance" has been collecting critical praise. The Daily News Online recently interviewed Joey and rounded up much of the praise he's been receiving in a recent article.

Joey will be performing two shows as New York supper club Feinstein's on October 15 and 16.

You can listen to sound clips and order the album in the MaynardFerguson.com Merchandise page.

   

Alumni Update: Ed Sargent
September 27, 2009

Maynard's long time tour manager and friend Ed Sargent was recently interviewed for an article in the Tennessee Alumnus. Check it out to see how Ed became involved in the Maynard Ferguson organization in the first place, and what he's up to now.
   

Alumni Update: Tom Garling
September 19, 2009

Tom Garling played trombone in Big Bop Nouveau for six years, and appeared on several of Maynard's Concord albums. He also composed and arranged several charts that Maynard recorded. The Macomb Journal recently published an article about Tom, as he was preparing to guest with the Western Illinois University Jazz Studio Orchestra.
   

"MAYNARD!" by Ralph Jungheim
September 5, 2009

In 1978, Ralph Jungheim sat down with thirty people (mostly musicians) who knew Maynard Ferguson, and rolled tape. Ralph's new book, "MAYNARD!", collects those interviews and gives the reader thirty different perspectives on Maynard Ferguson the man, musician, and bandleader.

"MAYNARD!" is a 240 page paperback, and includes interviews with Charlie Barnet, Shelly Manne, Bud Shank, Don Ellis, Rufus "Speedy" Jones, Lanny Morgan, Don Menza, Lew Tabackin, Bob Summers, Stan Mark, Dennis Noday, Lynn Nicholson, Joe Mosello, Mike Migliore, Peter Erskine, and more.

For more details, you can read Matt Keller's review of the book, and purchase it in the Maynard Ferguson store.

Maynard book

   

"M.F. Horn Two" in 60 Seconds
September 3, 2009

Enjoy this slideshow that condenses the classic "M.F. Horn Two" album to 60 seconds.

 

Remembering Maynard
August 23, 2009

Today marks the three year anniversary of Maynard's passing. We can reminisce about Maynard by revisiting the amazing photo thread on the Maynard Ferguson forum. In the days following Maynard's death, fans posted hundreds of their favorite photographs of The Boss in action.

 

Maynard's Daughter Wilder Still Collecting Fan Stories
August 15, 2009

Not long after Maynard passed, his daughter Wilder began asking fans for their Maynard stories, with the intention of turning them into a project. Wilder is still interested in stories, and has provided the following update.

As you might expect it turned out to be a bit overwhelming to take on this project so soon after my father’s passing, so I set the project aside for a while. Now I have started the project again and re-read all the stories that I already have. Wow! You guys are all fantastic and I am so grateful for your help. I received letters from doctors, lawyers, firemen, soldiers, teachers, musicians, computer techs and the list goes on.

The project still needs more stories though, and I hope that if you haven’t already written one, you will contribute your story and photos to the collection.

PS Please do not contribute a story and then post it on the web, I know that sounds a little unfair, but if you do then the collection will turn out to be a bunch or stories that everyone has already read.

-Wilder Ferguson-Jacob

Submit your Maynard story here.

 

Maynard Pianist Jeff Lashway's CD "Reunion" Now Available
August 15, 2009

MF Pianist Jeff Lashway's debut solo CD, "Reunion", is now available in the Maynard Ferguson Store. If you saw Maynard Ferguson perform in the last few years of his life, odds are good that you saw Jeff Lashway sitting at the piano. Lashway quickly became a fan favorite, and his appearance on Maynard's all-star "The One and Only" CD tells us what Maynard thought of his playing. Reunion is Jeff's first solo CD, and it features an impressive collection of sidemen, including former MF tenor sax player Jeff Rupert. A recent review of this recording on AllAboutJazz.com says, "With Reunion, his first CD as leader, ex-Ferguson pianist Jeff Lashway steps out—and up—to brilliantly demonstrate that he is an outstanding jazz pianist, composer and leader deserving of wider recognition. Accompanied by an all-star line-up, Lashway and friends deliver ten marvelously entertaining selections. This reunion is an intelligent, involving jazz swingfest." Random Act Records is donating 10% of their proceeds from the sale of this album to the Jazz Foundation of America. Order today!

Jeff Lashway - Reunion CD Cover

  

WCSK-FM To Feature Maynard Ferguson For 10 Days
August 15, 2009

Tennessee-based WCSK-FM is continuing their annual tradition of paying tribute to the music of Maynard Ferguson. The following announcement was recently posted in the Maynard Ferguson Forum:

For the third consecutive year, WCSK-FM 90.3 will celebrate the life and music of Maynard Ferguson. This year's gala will stretch over 10 days, beginning on Sunday, August 16 and conclude on Tuesday, August 25, and will touch on all aspects of the six decade career of the Boss.

Beginning with the earliest recordings with Jimmy Dorsey and Charlie Barnet, going through the Kenton years, the Birdland Dream Band, the Roulette, pre-Columbia, Columbia, post-Columbia, and Concord years up until "The One and Only" release recorded just weeks before Maynard's passing in 2006.

A new feature of this year's program will be the inclusion of Maynard's work in Hollywood for major movie soundtracks, as well as the significant body of work Maynard recorded backing up major vocalists such as Harry Belafonte, Ella Fitzgerald, Bing Crosby, Chris Connor and Jerry Lewis (yes, THAT Jerry Lewis). Also included will be the work of some of Maynard's sidemen through the years, including Wayne Bergeron, Chuck Mangione, Rob McConnell, Lew Soloff, Slide Hampton, Tom Garling, and Christian Jacob.

So, tune in, beginning Sunday, August 16th at 11 AM EDT for the start of the 2009 Maynard Ferguson Gala. Additional details on broadcast times and playlists for all 10 days of the gala are available at WCSK-FM 90.3's website, http://kcs.k12k.com/about-us/wcsk-radio/listen-live or by contacting station manager Jeff Hall at jhall@k12k.com.


 

Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert DVD On Sale
August 15, 2009

The double-DVD set of the Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert (including an hour of rare MF bonus footage) is temporarily on sale in the Maynard Ferguson Store.

MF Tribute Concert DVD

  

"Top 5 Scream Trumpet Solos in Hollywood Films" YouTube Video
August 15, 2009

A Maynard Ferguson Forum member has put together this great compilation of his top 5 "scream trumpet" solos in major Hollywood films. Take a look to see where Maynard landed on this list.
  

Maynard Tribute CD by The Loudhorns Now Available
June 28, 2009

The Loudhorns are a Nashville-based jazz-rock band made up of seven brass instruments (3 trumpets, 1 french horn, 2 trombones, 1 tuba) and a four person rhythm section (keyboard, guitars, electric bass, and drums). Their latest CD, "One For Maynard" features 9 fun and tight arrangements, more than half of which are Maynard Ferguson covers. Says band leader Joe Murphy, "Band Directors - This is your WAKE UP CALL!! Play great CDs in your bandroom. Your students need to know who Maynard Ferguson is, who Bill Chase is, who Doc Severinsen is, who Frank Rosolino is, who Carl Fontana is, who Bill Watrous is, who Stan Getz is, who Don Menza is, who Howard Johnson is, etc... And...Teach your kids to move air!! If you've forgotten what it's like to play loud, just listen to a Stan Kenton CD." You can order now in the Maynard Ferguson Store.

The Loudhorns CD Cover
  

Rare MF Interview Provided by Southern California Radio Station
June 28, 2009

Southern California radio station The SPA recently produced a two hour special on Maynard. The first hour features some of Maynard's music, and a new interview with Maynard's final manager, Steve Schankman. Hour two is a rare interview with Maynard, recorded 22 years ago. Both hours of this special are available for free download at The SPA's web site (just look for Maynard's picture).


  

Limited Copies of Re-Issued "Uncle Joe Shannon" Soundtrack Available
June 2, 2009

In 1978, Maynard teamed up with Bill Conti (composer of "Gonna Fly Now") to record the soundtrack to "Uncle Joe Shannon" a film about a jazz trumpeter who is down on his luck. This soundtrack has never before been on CD until it was recently re-released by Intrada as a limited edition 1,000 copy run. Intrada has already sold out, but MaynardFerguson.com managed to get 50 copies from them before they were gone. Get your copy while supplies last!
Update on 6/5: This item is sold out

Uncle Joe Shannon CD

 

Maynard Marathon on WCSK-FM 90.3 to Commemorate Maynard's Birthday
May 1, 2009

Once again, WCSK-FM (of Kingsport Schools in TN) will feature a Maynard Ferguson music marathon in honor of what would have been the boss's 81st birthday. For those of us who don't live within the range of this station, the station also streams on their web site. In previous years, many visitors to this site have tuned in and have been very supportive of this excellent effort to spread the word about MF. This year, they plan to feature some extremely rare Maynard music (see press release below for full information):

Press Release

WCSK-FM 90.3, The Voice of the Kingsport (TN) Schools, is once again proud to sponsor a 13 hour birthday celebration of the live and music of Maynard Ferguson. In keeping with the theme, "Long Live the Boss", the program (Sunday, May 3, 2009 from 11 AM - Midnight EDT) will feature a number of Maynard's Live albums (Live from Peacock Lane, MF Horn 4&5 Live from Jimmy's, Live from San Francisco, Live from London and MF Horn VI Live from Ronny's), interspersed with studio albums from different segments of his long performance career, including the Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab cut of The Blues Roar, MF Horn 1, It's My Time, High Voltage 1, Big Bop Nouveau, and both discs of The Essential Maynard Ferguson compilation.

This program will feature two very rare items that even many hard-core Maynard fans may never have heard: The first are two 1970 tracks performed with Marsha Hunt (an American author and singer, who is also the mother of Mick Jagger's only child) from a British 45 that was never released in the US. Hunt was in the original cast of the musical "Hair," and she was skyrocketing to fame as this 45 was released. The first track was the Paul Simon (of Simon and Garfunkel fame) tune Keeping the Customer Satisfied, reissued in a wailing bluesy R&B style. Maynard can be heard screaming in the high register throughout most of the tune. On the flip side, Lonesome Holy Roller is credited to Hunt/Ferguson, so it appears that Marsha and Maynard wrote it there in the studio and laid it down in an improvised style. Likewise, Maynard screams in a number of spots.

The other is the 1972 soundtrack from the Italian motion picture La Prima Notte di Quiete, released in USA as "Indian Summer." This recording is the RARE, out-of-print Japanese pressing of the Italian movie soundtrack! MF solos beautifully on a number of tracks, and these are very hard to find. Note to Maynard fans-this is not traditional-sounding Maynard, but a very nice, lyrical portrayal of the movie theme.

As always, if you don't happen to live in the Upper East Tennessee/Southwest Virginia geographical area, you can catch the program on line at WCSK's website: http://kcs.k12k.com/about-us/wcsk-radio/listen-live

And if you like what you hear, drop station manager Jeff Hall (jhall@k12k.com) a note to encourage him to keep the Maynard marathon's coming. Long Live the Boss!

 

MaynardFerguson.com Now on Twitter
April 23, 2009

Now you can follow MaynardFerguson.com on Twitter. Keep track of Maynard news, along with news about former Maynard alumni, as well as players of interest such as Jim Manley, Eric Miyashiroy, Joey Pero, and more!

Twitter
 

New In the Maynard Ferguson Store: Joey Pero's "Resonance"
April 11, 2009

Joey Pero - ResonanceOver the years, Maynard attracted some extremely talented musicians to his band. Often, after leaving Maynard's band, these musicians have gone on to have impressive careers of their own. One of the fun things about administering MaynardFerguson.com is that I am often contacted by former band members when they have a new project or recording. Recently Joey Pero, a former trumpet player with Maynard and Big Bop Nouveau, let me know about his debut album, "Resonance". I had heard Joey's name come up a few times in the Maynard Ferguson forum, but I never had the chance to catch him when he was on Maynard's band, so he wasn't really on my radar. I received a copy of his CD with no real expectation of what I was about to hear.

I didn't know what I was in for. This CD is one of the most interesting and creative trumpet albums that I've heard in a long time. Simultaneously modern and traditional, the album is full of influences ranging from traditional jazz to hip-hop, rock, pop, classical, and even some drum corps. I highly recommend heading over to the Merchandise page to listen to the sound clips that I've posted. I think we'll be hearing a lot more from Joey in the years to come.

 

New Items in the Maynard Ferguson Store
March 21, 2009

I'm excited to announce that two new items have been added to the Maynard Ferguson store. The first is a new Maynard tee shirt called "Maynard Lives". It's a black tee with a white MF logo over a white MF photo design. Directly underneath is the slogan "Maynard Lives". It can be found in the Maynard Ferguson Store's clothing page.
"Maynard Lives" Tee

A new CD by Swedish trumpeter Lasse Lindgren is also available in the Maynard Ferguson Store. The album is titled "Spirits: Lasse Lindgren Big Constellation Plays in the Spirit of Maynard Ferguson". I heard this CD about a month ago, and immediately contacted Lasse to get copies for the Maynard Ferguson store. Lasse has managed to very accurately capture the showmanship and joy that was inherent in Maynard's performances. This CD was produced by the legendary Ernie Garside, and Lasse even played one of Maynard's Conn Connstellation trumpets throughout the session. I have limited quantities of this CD, and I highly recommend it. You can see the track listing and hear sound clips on the Maynard Ferguson Store's music page.

 

Alumni Update - Tim Ries
March 21, 2009

Tim Ries played saxophone for Maynard in the 1980s, appearing on both the "Live From San Francisco" and "Body and Soul" albums. Since his time with Maynard, he has traveled the world with the Rolling Stones and also pursued some of his own projects. You can read about Tim in this recent Edmonton Journal article, "Dreams come true for Tim Ries".

   

Kurt Thompson and Boss Nouveau's Debut Performance: March 20
March 15, 2009

Kurt Thompson, a California trumpet player, has put together a jazz band that he calls "Boss Nouveau". The purpose of this band, according to Kurt, is to pay tribute to many of his trumpet heroes, including Maynard, Doc Severinsen, Bud Brisbois, and Bill Chase. You can visit Boss Nouveau's MySpace page for more information and sound clips.

Boss Nouveau's first performance will be on March 20th in Walnut Creek, California. For more information, visit Boss Nouveau's MySpace page or you can send email to bossnouveau@yahoo.com.

 

Keith FialaFormer Maynard Trumpeter Keith Fiala Releases Book
March 15, 2009

Former Big Bop Nouveau trumpeter Keith Fiala has just released a new book titled "Secrets to Efficient Brass Playing". Keith is offering this book as an e-book directly from his web site, http://www.brassplayersolution.com, which makes it available for immediate download after purchase.

Keith's book was recently given some glowing reviews from some regular members of the Maynard Ferguson Forum, which is no easy audience. New York trumpet Nick Mondello writes, "While Fiala's terrific contribution here is not about secrets - there is nothing radical or revolutionary - but rather he provides a very well-presented emphasis on using one's common sense to get the most out of our trumpeting selves. (Somehow it seems that when we were lining up to play the horn, we all went to the trumpeter's line, forsaking the common sense line!) His easy going, me-you verbal style gives one the impression that you're in a casual hang with him in the shed room. He knows his stuff. The "Chop Doc," Jeanne Pocius is also a Master (Mistress?) of this gift, as is Bobby Shew and Clint "Pops" McLaughlin, who Fiala credits admirably."

Check out Keith's new book at his web site: http://www.brassplayersolution.com.

  

Mike DubaniewiczFormer Maynard Saxophonist Mike Dubaniewicz Releases New CD
February 12, 2009

Former Maynard Ferguson and Big Bop Nouveau saxophonist Mike Dubaniewicz has just released his new CD entitled "Drive Time". Maynard fans will remember Mike's playing from Maynard's "The One and Only Maynard Ferguson" CD as well as the "Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert" DVD recorded shortly after Maynard's death. According to Mike's press release, "This project features Mike on a diverse selection of tunes ranging from straight ahead jazz to afro-Cuban to soul. Admirers of the Hammond B3 will enjoy the driving organ playing of Ron Oswanski (MF, BS&T) who grooves with the best of them on this session. On drums is Vince Ector who is no stranger to funky organ units having played with Charles Earland, as well as Bobby Watson and Freddie Hubbard."

The album, which includes "I Can't Get Started" as a tribute to Maynard, has already received a 4 star review from Audiophile Audition. You can listen to sound clips and buy the new CD at Mike's web site, http://www.mdsax.net (one of the better musician web sites I've seen).

Track listing:

  1. Hubtones
  2. Along Came Betty
  3. I Can't Get Started
  4. 20-20-11
  5. Woman Across the River
  6. Just Friends
  7. Wee
  8. Red Snapper
  9. Gigue
  10. Moontrane
  11. Drive Time

 

 

Reggie WatkinsFormer Maynard Trombonist/Musical Director on SNL Tonight
January 31, 2009

Former Maynard Ferguson and Big Bop Nouveau trombonist Reggie Watkins is on tour with rock/pop artist Jason Mraz (probably best known for his song Remedy). Tonight, Mraz is the musical guest on Saturday Night Live. If you saw Maynard play during his last 6 or 7 years of touring, there's a good chance that you saw Reggie perform. In addition to playing, Reggie was also the band's musical director also did some arranging. His arrangement of Girl From Ipanema appeared on the MF Horn 6: Live at Ronnie's album.

You can find more information about Reggie at http://www.reggiewatkins.net and take a look at Jason Mraz's tour dates at jasonmraz.com.

 

Peter OlstadFormer Maynard Trumpeter Peter Olstad Endorses New Trumpet
January 4, 2009

Former Big Bop Nouveau trumpeter Peter Olstad (who played in Big Bop Nouveau with Wayne Bergeron and Roger Ingram...what a line-up!) is endorsing a new trumpet that will be available early this year. The manufacturer is P. Mauriat, and they have released the following statement:

The P. Mauriat company is coming out with a line of trumpets. Their first endorser is Maynard alumni Peter Olstad. This company has been making fine saxophones for a few years and is debuting it's trumpet line at the NAMM show January, 2009.

Jazz and lead trumpet player Peter Olstad has toured and performed with the bands of Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich, Woody Herman, Blood Sweat and Tears, Mel Torme, and Brian Setzer. In 1999, Peter was hired by Tom Jones and played lead trumpet for 9 years, touring 35 weeks a year for that period of time. From Carnige Hall to Royal Albert hall; the Hollywood Bowl to Wembley Stadium, he has played them all.

Born in Burbank California and later moving to Evergreen Colorado , Peter attended Berklee College of music in Boston and the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley . While in college, Peter received the Downbeat magazine's best jazz soloist college division 3 years in a row, and later went on to become one of the five finalists in the Thelonious Monk Institute's Louis Armstrong jazz trumpet competition in Washington D.C.

Settling back in the Los Angles area after college, Peter spent the next 15 years as a freelance trumpet player and later relocated to New York for another 10 years before settling back in Denver Colorado where he now resides.

Mr. Olstad himself has this to say:

"...I am debuting horn at the NAMM show in January. A note about the horn:

In the 30 or so years that I have been a working trumpet player, I have either owned or played just about every trumpet out there on the market. My search was to find one horn to do all of my work on.

Guess what? The search is over. I have found what I was looking for in the P. Mauriat trumpet. I was knocked out by how great the sound was from the first note I played. Also I was impressed by how well in tune the horn played and the ease and stability of the upper register. This is a great trumpet.

In fact I feel that it will become the "new standard" on which other companies in the future will gauge their own horns by. "

More information can be found at the P. Mauriat web site and at Peter Olstad's web site.

 

Arturo Sandoval Plays National Anthem at Orange Bowl
January 4, 2009

Grammy winning trumpeter Arturo Sandoval played the Star Spangled Banner at the Orange Bowl this year, helping to raise the profile of trumpet playing again on a national stage. It's a very impressive rendition, and I think it would have made Maynard smile.

 

Jim Manley's "Eight" Receives Glowing Review from AllAboutJazz.com
January 3, 2009

AllAboutJazz.com has reviewed Jim Manley's new CD, "Eight", and had nothing but praise. An excerpt:

High-note trumpeting is rarified air. Many are called to scream and fly, but few are indeed chosen. They are the ones having the chops and musicianship to make the altissimo bravissimo. Manley marvelously proves he can indeed do it "up there" and "out there"—as a musician first and foremost and monster lead and scream trumpeter. This album is a gem of trumpet scream skills, great jazz improvisations, tight ensemble playing, and terrific musicianship.

Jim Manley's "Eight" is available in the Maynard Ferguson Store.

 

Lynn Nicholson Web Site
December 8, 2008

Lynn Nicholson was a popular trumpeter in Maynard's band of the mid 1970s. The DVD "At The Top" shows Maynard bringing Lynn down to the front of the stage to show off his chops. Now, Lynn has a web site that features a personal gallery of Maynard photos, along with some beautiful photography available for purchase. Visit Lynn's site at http://www.isasitis.com.

 

Jim Manley - EightJim Manley's New CD Available in MF Store
December 8, 2008

St. Louis trumpeter Jim Manley has a new CD, and it's fantastic. Inspired by Maynard's style and endorsed by Maynard's friend and tour manager, Ed Sargent, "Eight" swings from beginning to end. Visit the Maynard Ferguson Store for sound clips and track listing.

From the liner notes: "I also love Maynard Ferguson's LP's from the 60's and wanted to capture the excitement of his bands in that era which prominently featured his sidemen and fantastic arrangers - all of which we have here."

 

Maynard Ferguson Tribute Band Forming in California Bay Area
November 28, 2008

Bay area trumpeter Kurt Thompson is currently rehearsing a Maynard Ferguson tribute band. They are hoping to be ready to perform in February of 2009. Says Kurt: "This is not a band about lead trumpet players tastelessly belting out Maynard charts, but rather, coming as close as possible to the sounds and styles of Maynard. His antics, movements, etc...are also being inserted in the performance. We are trying to present a broad history of his songs starting with Maynard Ferguson by Shorty Rogers, Tenderly, of course Give it One, Birdland, etc.....We will close our shows with BLUE BIRDLAND....just like Maynard did."

Rehearsals are open to anyone who wants to watch. Just email Kurt at yourbrassinstructor@yahoo.com for information.

MaynardFerguson.com will post details of scheduled performances when they become available. To receive updates, make sure that you are on our mailing list.

  

Maynard Ferguson Alumni Update
November 28, 2008

Ken Robinson
Let The Trumpet SoundKen Robinson was a trumpet player in one of the last incarnations of Big Bop Nouveau. Ken has just released a beautiful new classical CD titled "Let The Trumpet Sound" featuring himself on trumpet and Dave Wagner on organ. The entire CD is impressive, but what really makes this CD special is the last track, titled "Farewell Maynard". This is a touching tribute to Maynard, based on the melody "Caruso", arranged for eight trumpets, two trombones, and organ. Ken didn't stop there. He recruited some trumpet heavyweights to play on this track. The eight trumpets in this recording are: Ken Robinson, Walter White, Adolph "Bud" Herseth, Charles Schlueter, Patrick Hession, Arturo Sandoval, Brian Moon, and John Davidson. To me, this track perfectly captures both the romanticism and wild abandon of Maynard's approach to music. Listen to a clip of this tribute track, and then buy the album in the Maynard Ferguson store.

Wayne Bergeron
Trumpeter Wayne Bergeron has made quite a name for himself in the years since he played with Maynard, even garnering a Grammy nomination for his first solo album. This Christmas season, Wayne appears on new CD by the After Hours Brass titled "Music and Mistletoe". You can listen to sound clips and order at the After Hour Brass web site.

  

New Don Ellis DVD (featuring Maynard) Released Today
November 28, 2008

"Electric Heart", the new Don Ellis DVD from Sleepy Night Records is released today. You might remember from my previous story that this DVD features over 150 minutes of special features and an interview with Maynard himself. The DVD can be ordered at Sleepy Night Records.   [screen caps]

 

Maynard Ferguson Store Prices Slashed
November 28, 2008

Several items in the Maynard Ferguson Store have just had their prices permanently slashed! Some newly discounted items include Maynard Ferguson Christmas Ornaments, Newsletters, stocking hats, DVDs, and more! Browse through the store's Accessories, Clothing, and Music sections and look for the red Price Reduced wording next to the item names.

 

Maynard Featured on Upcoming Don Ellis DVD
November 1, 2008

Sleepy Night Records, who brought us the two Maynard Ferguson "Lost Tapes" CDs, are releasing a Don Ellis DVD thatfeatures an interview with Maynard. This DVD is coming on November 28 and can be pre-ordered at http://www.sleepynightrecords.com/shop.php.

From Sleepy Night Records:
"We are now taking pre-orders for the Don Ellis DVD "Electric Heart", the award winning documentary by John Vizzusi about the life and music of this great musician. Many of his band and friends are interviewed in this DVD along with the great Maynard Ferguson who, as always, had some great things to say about his involvement with Don over the years. The special features are massive: over 150 minutes containing "Extra Ellis," more unseen footage and interviews, "The Reunion Concert" and rehearsal at the Whisky a Go Go in 2005, and a special audio track recorded as a tribute to Don and his Mum and Dad by friend and trumpet player Gary Gillies of Sleepy Night Records.

Don Ellis was a jazz trumpeter, drummer, bandleader, recording artist, arranger and composer ( The French Connection is one of his best scores). Born in Los Angeles on July 25, 1934, he died of a heart attack at his home in North Hollywood on December 17, 1978.

Don Ellis is perhaps best known for his unusual and complex meters. He often used 9/4, 5/8, 7/8, 9/8, and 19/4 time signatures, he also worked in quarter-tone melodic structures and had his own 4 valve quarter tone trumpet. In later years, he played a "superbone," a combination valve/slide trombone also the "Firebird Trumpet", slide trumpet both instruments designed by Maynard Ferguson.

 


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