Our esteemed guest, Jim Olcott, is someone whose work I've long admired. He's the retired professor of trumpet at Miami University of Ohio, the founder of Triplo Press, and the musical director of the Twin Cities Trumpet Ensemble. His extensive background in trumpet music promised an enriching conversation.
In this episode, we touched on several fascinating topics:
For those interested in diving deeper into Jim's world, our show notes at trumpetdynamics.com/olcott, which contain links to some of his recent recordings.
Jim candidly admitted that he might not be at the peak of his playing abilities compared to his younger years. However, I assured you, dear listener, that his performance remains outstanding, reflecting the nuanced reality of aging in the arts.
This episode is a beautiful blend of personal stories, professional insights, and even some music for you listening pleasure at the very end. With my wife Sana adding adding a few of her thoughts in the middle, it's the perfect way to get your mind focused on making some great music!
This is more than just a podcast episode; it's a journey through the realms of trumpet music, teaching, and the art of living a life deeply intertwined with music.
A few highlights from this episode:
Resources mentioned:
Trumpet Dynamics podcast w/ Chris Botti
Trumpet Dynamics podcast tribute to William Vacchiano
Overdubs recently recorded by JO:
It’s the Most Beautiful Time of the Year (arr. Michael Halstenson, ed. Olcott)
Picc trpt, three Bb’s, 10 flugelhorns, three, bass trumpets, opt. string bass
Little Drummer Boy (arr. Mitchell Dietz, ed. Olcott)
Eb trpt, three Bb’s, four flugelhorns, three bass trumpets, timpani, snare drum
Christmas Time is Here (arr. Michael Halstenson, ed. Olcott)
C trumpet, three Bb’s, five flugelhorns, three bass trumpets, opt. string bass
About the Guest:
James Olcott was professor of trumpet for 35 years at Miami University (Ohio), where he led a dynamic trumpet studio with several top-notch ensembles. While at Miami he was an active player throughout the area and around the country in both jazz and classical genres, including holding the position of principal trumpet of the Cincinnati Ballet Orchestra for nearly 25 years.
With an abiding interest in trumpet ensemble as a musical and pedagogical tool, he founded trumpet ensembles at Miami University, began the Cincinnati Herald Trumpet Ensemble in the early '80s, and has been a leading and ongoing proponent of the idiom throughout his adult life. It was partly for this reason that he was awarded the International Trumpet Guild's Award of Merit in 2005.
He has conducted jazz bands and brass groups throughout his 45-year teaching career, including professional, semi-pro, amateur, and student trumpet ensembles in Europe, Asia, and the United States.
As a composer and arranger of music for trumpet ensemble, his works are performed worldwide and are published by Crown Music Press of Chicago, Tromba Publications of Denver, and by his own publishing firm, Triplo Press, which he founded in 1991.
Thank you for joining us on "Trumpet Dynamics" – telling the story of the trumpet, in the words of those who play it.
For more captivating episodes and exclusive content, visit our official website at trumpetdynamics.com. There you can dive deeper into the interviews, discover additional resources, and connect with your fellow trumpeters.
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Until we meet again, may your fingers be fluid, your breath unimpeded, and your chops ever fresh.
Play hard!
Many thanks to the great Alexis Baro (listen to his interview on the podcast here) for allowing the use of "Come Together" from his outstanding album Sandstorm for the intro and closing music for the podcast.
Discover Alexis' incredible playing and his terrific contributions to the music world at alexisbaro.com