[sound off on whom you're principal inspiration was/is for playing trumpet AND why]
Well. here goes.
I was in fourth grade (many, many years ago) when Doc Severinsen came to perform with the Rochester Orchestra. MAN! was I hooked. I remember turning to my mom and telling her, "I want to play just like that." Well, of course I'm not up to his standards (then again, who is?), but I've done very well for myself. I'm playing in six different groups and soloing quite a bit. Last year I counted 85 gigs. And I'm loving it more and more.
Oh, and the best part. I finally got to meet Doc in March of 2002 at a reception at Orchestra Hall after a concert. I think that's the only time I've gotten really nervous about meeting someone and asking for an autograph. (and I was 41 at the time)
Even after all these years, he's still THE MAN!!!
Warren