trpt2345

I just got back from seeing the Mingus Big Band at Orchestra Hall in Chicago playing Mingus' Epitaph with Gunther Schuller conducting. WOW! The trumpet section was Ryan Kisor, splitting lead with Walter White, Dave Ballou, Alex Sipiagin (short little Russian who played most of the solos) Dave Ballou, Kenny Rampton (who had a killed plunger solo on Freedom) and Jack Walrath (who curiously was the only trumpet player who played with Mingus and he was the only one who didn't solo). That's right, six trumpets. And six bones, seven saxes, two basses, two pianos, three percussionists besides drumset, tuba, bassoon, and contrabass clarinet. A dense three hours of unbelieveably awesome music. The trumpet writing was ridiculous, and they killed it. I've rarely had such an enjoyable evening listening to a band. If they come to your town, go!

Michael McLaughlin

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Chicago MM

NickD

My son was at the concert with Mike. He echoed mike's enthusiasm. He also said that these people were taking their music really seriously.

I'm sorry I couldn't be at the Mingus concert. I'm glad my son was able to be there.

BTW, that's further tribute to the Merit Music school. They're exposing those kids to som great stuff! Kudos, Mike!

Nick

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NickD
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