| Hi Mark,
Joe Rodriquez was at NTS in 77-78 , lead trumpet in the 1 O'Clock band and was with Woody's band in '79 . He's got the lead chair on the album " Woody and Friends from the Monterey Jazz Festival " .Woody had a small band then - 3 trumpets, 2 trombones, and I also have Joe playing on a Dallas Jazz Orchestra CD, plus other less known groups.
As far as lead trumpet chronology in that era of Woody's band, I recall Jay Sollenberger playing lead trumpet after Al V. left the band, then Joe Rodriquez , then Howie. Joe's playing on the live at Monterey album is great.
Also, Walt Blanton of UNLV fame was playing lead trumpet on Woody's band ( with Gil Rathel ) in the very late 60's / early 70's , before Al Porcino , Tommy Porello , Charlie Davis and Dave Stahl took charge up til the mid / late 70's
Maybe someone out there can find or compile a Woody Herman Lead trumpet chronology starting with Bill Chase in the late 50's.
I'll check the '77 records for you and get back to you and Joe trumpet purchase.
Larry |