studioHFL

Behind the Scenes with Mike Sweeney: Composer, Arranger, and Educator

In this episode, we take a deep dive into Mike Sweeney's career as a composer, arranger, and educator. Mike talks about his early days starting the Studio HFL interviews in 2017, his struggle with editing during COVID-19, and his gratitude for sponsors and Patreon subscribers. He details his extensive experience in music education, from his time at the University of Indianapolis to several significant teaching posts. Mike discusses his journey at Hal Leonard, the evolution of the company, and his contributions to the field of music publishing. He also shares his passion for Irish music, his fishing hobby, and his insights into writing music for different skill levels. Timestamped topics include his early career, transition to Hal Leonard, flex band series, and personal interests.

00:00 Mike Sweeney Interview - Podcast
01:24 Introduction & IU Years
08:41 Early Musical Influences
14:49 First Teaching Jobs
19:33 Writing for Young Musicians
25:32 Joining Hal Leonard
38:38 Flex Band Series
44:52 Irish Music Journey
51:05 Life During COVID

Studio HFL Interviews: Rediscovering Hidden Gems and Lifelong Lessons

Inside the World of Classical Music and Jazz with Rob - A Journey from Michigan to L.A. Philharmonic

In this episode, join host Larry and the legendary Rob as they embark on a journey through the world of music in Rob's life. Rob shares the genesis of his interest in music, his diverse experiences from jazz and psychology major in college, to his profound stint in various orchestras, including the Baltimore Symphony and the LA Philharmonic. The pivotal moments include his enthralling South American tour and West Point Band adventures. The discussion delves into the impact of great teachers like Clifford Lilia, the influence of technology like Zoom on music education, and the profound connection cultivated through decades of musical collaboration. Enjoy an enriching insight into what it takes to shape a successful career in classical music.

00:00 Rob Roy McGregor Video
01:24 Introduction
07:52 Teaching Philosophy
14:42 Early Life & University of Michigan
17:37 Dominican Republic Tour
23:43 Studying with Clifford Lilia
34:38 West Point Band
39:36 Baltimore Symphony
42:41 Playing with Tom Stevens
48:06 Retirement & Beyond

Kenny Rampton: Jazz at Lincoln Center, Sesame Street & Finding Positivity Through Music

Join us for an intimate conversation with Kenny Rampton, trumpet player with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and Sesame Street. Kenny shares his journey from growing up in a musical family in Las Vegas to becoming one of New York's most respected jazz musicians.

In this interview, Kenny discusses:
• His 11-year tenure with Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center
• Recording for Sesame Street and the impact of children's television
• Writing and arranging for big bands
• His nonprofit Jazz Outreach Initiative (JOI) and the Las Vegas Youth Jazz Orchestra
• Influences from Clark Terry, Clifford Brown, and Maynard Ferguson
• Navigating the challenges of COVID-19 as a New York musician
• The importance of listening, practice, and finding positivity in difficult times

Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction & Welcome
0:54 - Meeting Kenny & Common Connections
2:44 - The Sesame Street Gig
5:49 - Recording Process & Remote Sessions
10:05 - Lincoln Center & Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
14:48 - How the Lincoln Center Gig Came About
19:50 - Philosophy on Mistakes & Perfection
23:19 - Writing & Arranging for Big Band
27:35 - Early Years & Musical Background
31:28 - Starting Trumpet & Early Improvisation
33:28 - Teaching & Jazz Outreach Initiative
38:35 - Influences & Listening Recommendations
45:05 - Maynard Ferguson & Current Listening
50:10 - Meeting Sergei Nakariakov & Embracing Silence
51:36 - COVID Impact on New York Musicians
58:30 - Finding Positivity in Difficult Times
1:03:30 - Round Table Discussions with Legendary Musicians
1:06:10 - Closing Thoughts & Final Message

Featured Topics:

Jazz education and mentorship
The reality of being a working musician in NYC
Collaboration with world-class artists
Life on the road with a touring big band
The journey vs. the destination in music and life
Connect with Kenny Rampton:
Jazz Outreach Initiative: [Add link if available]

Studio HFL: Diving Deep into Trumpet Insights and Industry Chats

In this engaging episode of Studio HFL, our host reconnects with devoted listeners and shares exciting news about continuing and upcoming interviews. Reflecting on the journey since 2017, the discussion acknowledges the invaluable support from various sponsors such as Eastman Music Company, S.E. Shires, Chopsaver, Austin Custom Brass, Hammond Design Pickett Blackburn, and Messina Covers, along with generous Patreon subscribers. The interview touches on diverse themes including technical difficulties with Zoom, musical projects, teaching experiences, and the evolving technology in the music world. A passionate conversation about musical instruments, warm-up routines, and the interconnectedness of fundamentals and musical artistry offers a wealth of insights for music enthusiasts and aspiring musicians alike.

00:00 Introduction & Technical Setup
02:36 Ham Radio Discussion
06:10 Northwestern Teaching Model
15:09 Commercial vs Classical Playing
19:15 Mouthpieces & Equipment
24:43 Historic Trumpet Collection
37:20 French & Russian Repertoire
46:02 ITG Conference & Community
48:15 The Sachs Routine Book
58:11 Fundamentals & Musicality
01:00:49 String Players & Phrasing
01:02:48 John Mack & Connecting Notes
01:05:26 Listening & Ensemble Skills
01:07:01 Great Soloists & Singers
01:09:23 Wrap-Up & Future Plans

Inside Stories from the Empire Brass Tour Manager - Chuck Wilson's Journey from Hershey to Boston and Beyond

Join us on Studio HFL as host Larry welcomes Chuck Wilson, former tour manager for the iconic Empire Brass Quintet, for a fascinating discussion. Chuck shares his unique experiences working with legendary musicians like Rolf Smedvig, Charles Lewis, and Sam Pilafian. Hear about his early musical influences, his family's background, and his journey from Hershey, Pennsylvania to becoming a vital part of one of the most renowned brass quintets in the world. Chuck also delves into his time at West Point and his continued passion for drum corps. This episode offers an insider’s perspective on the music industry and the life of a touring musician.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:13 Chuck Wilson's Background and Connection to Empire Brass
02:56 Musical Journey and Education
05:21 Drum Corps and Early Influences
08:46 Joining the Empire Brass Quintet
17:21 Touring with Empire Brass
22:10 Challenges and Innovations on the Road
33:29 Reflecting on the Brass Quintet Legacy
33:53 David O'Hanion's Journey and Teaching Philosophy
34:50 Personalities and Practices of Quintet Members
36:28 Memorable Moments and Challenges
41:16 Transition to West Point Band
45:19 Life and Career at West Point
57:20 Drum Corps and Alumni Connections
01:00:45 Final Reflections and Gratitude

This is from an April 22, 2022 interview. Transcripts available upon request. Contact Larry Powell at [email protected] for that and any other questions and/or comments.

Thank you for listening!