| "Trumpets Sound for Maynard" International Musician Feature Article |
| September 1st, 2009 00:00 |
 The International Musician, the official journal of the American Federation of Musicians, has published a feature article about Ken's CD "Let the Trumpet Sound" in the September 2009 issue. The article is mentioned on the front cover as "Trumpets Sound for Maynard" and is in the "Upbeat" section titled "Detroit Musician Assembles All-Star Team to Honor a Legend." It talks about the people involved, some of the material, the place as well as some of the challenges that took place in the making of the album.
"I really wanted to do something special and different that would include my best friend Patrick Hession [of Local 5], who was very close to Maynard," Robinson says. "So, I got the idea to put a loose arrangement of 'Caruso' on the album as sort of a requiem to a legend." The song was later titled "Farewell Maynard."
Read the Reviews!
|
| View full Article |
| John Clayton debuts a new work rooted in Detroit jazz history at festival |
| August 30th, 2009 00:00 |
 BY MARK STRYKER
FREE PRESS MUSIC WRITER
John Clayton leads the Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra of Detroit through a recent rehearsal at the Detroit Institute of Arts. (REGINA H. BOONE/Detroit Free Press)
John Clayton is a large, handsome man, with an athletic, 6-foot-4-inch frame, dignified carriage and massive hands that seem engineered specifically for the double bass. He also has one of the great smiles in jazz. When he strikes a groove, walking a blues line on his bass or conducting one of his natty arrangements in front of a big band, Clayton's ultrabrights spread across his dimpled face like an invitation to a party.
He had a full house feeling the spirit at Cliff Bell's in downtown Detroit two weeks ago on the eve of his 57th birthday. Clayton, artist-in-residence at the 2009 Detroit International Jazz Festival, was presiding over an open dress rehearsal of the ambitious 30-minute commission he has written for the 30th annual festival, which opens Friday.
Titled "T.H.E. Family, Detroit," the piece honors the Pontiac-bred jazz legends Thad, Hank and Elvin Jones, with a nod to the downtown Guardian Building, whose art deco grandeur provides a metaphor for Detroit's golden age of jazz. The suite, scored for the Clayton Brothers Quintet and the 18-piece Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra of Detroit, will have its official premiere on Labor Day at Hart Plaza.
Clayton counted off the band with a flourish, inaugurating a souped-up Motown boogaloo with a basement churn of baritone sax, bass, guitar and piano and a dense, brassy strut -- the "Guardian Fanfare." Gwinnell stepped in to conduct and Clayton dashed to the corner of the stage. He picked up his bass and -- bam! -- the quintet sprinted into a swinging, minor-key theme. Clayton smiled, and the club smiled back.
"I'm a conduit," Clayton said before the rehearsal. "I don't feel I'm capable of creating what people think I'm capable of creating. It comes from another source, be it the universe, God, a tree, a Cadillac, a woman, whatever. You're kidding yourself if you think otherwise."
A consummate pro, Clayton has mastered just about every facet of the jazz life. Based in his native Los Angeles, he's a first-call bassist who cut his teeth with pianist Monty Alexander and Count Basie in the '70s and whose calling cards remain a swinging pulse, bear-hug tone, impeccable diction and taste and an infectious spirit he channels from his mentor, the late Ray Brown.
On another front, he's the charismatic chief composer-arranger for the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, one of the top big bands in jazz, which he leads with his brother Jeff, an alto saxophonist, and drummer Jeff Hamilton. Clayton is a Grammy Award-winning arranger who has written for Diana Krall, Queen Latifah and many others, and he's a noted jazz educator and a top administrator at jazz festivals.
He even had his own, albeit anonymous, pop culture moment, writing the orchestral arrangement of the National Anthem sung by Whitney Houston at the 1991 Super Bowl during the Gulf War, a performance that became a Top 20 hit when it was released as a single.
Still, it has been easy for critics and others to take Clayton for granted, partly because standard bearers for mainstream values like Clayton don't get the ink of cutting-edge innovators and partly because the jazz press has always been biased in favor of the East Coast.
But make no mistake: Clayton's musicianship takes a back seat to no one's, and his Zen-like focus, intelligence, humility, generosity and decency in an industry that often rewards the opposite have earned him universal respect among his peers.
"He makes you feel like the most important person in the world in his presence," said Hamilton. "You walk out of a meeting feeling like he treated you with the utmost respect and heard everything you said and feeling really good about yourself -- even though later you might realize that he didn't agree with anything you said! But he was a gentleman."
At peace with life and art
Clayton speaks in a resonant baritone, his easy humor and sincerity suggesting a man at peace with his life and art. He lives with his Dutch-born wife, Tineke Scholten, a linguist, in Altadena at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains. When he's working on a piece, he likes to take hikes to clear his head and entice the muse.
Clayton met his wife in the Netherlands on tour in the '70s, and when he left Basie in 1979, they settled in Utrecht, where Clayton made his living as principal bassist of the Amsterdam Philharmonic while also playing jazz. The family moved to Los Angeles in 1984. Today the Claytons are empty nesters, with a son, Gerald, 25, making a splash as a jazz pianist and an older daughter studying at Harvard Law School.
Clayton maintains his relaxed countenance when he plays, though he grows more visibly intense when he steps in front of a big band. His shoulders sway back and forth to the beat, he leans in to cue the saxophones, sings along and gestures broadly and expressively; his wingspan seems to stretch across the entire stage.
His rehearsal manner is direct, detailed, polite and encouraging but firmly in command. "Let's make sure we cut off our chords together," he told Gwinnell's band after a sloppy passage during a rehearsal at the Detroit Institute of Arts in June. "No hangover. Then you get a wall of sound with no jagged edges."
Aggravations that might drive others over the brink barely raise his temperature. At the DIA, a young sound engineer with an attitude refused to follow Clayton's instructions for miking his bass. Clayton kept repeating his request, subtly increasing pressure without raising his voice or escalating the confrontation until the engineer surrendered.
"I don't do stress," Clayton said. "Stress is a choice. I don't want an accelerated heart rate."
Jeff Clayton said his brother's personality was forged as the eldest of seven children raised by a single mother: You learn to be organized when you have to help iron three dresses, make six lunches and get the entire posse off to school. The Claytons' mother worked at the post office, cleaned houses, played piano and organ in church and directed the choirs, oversaw the renovation of a house and took classes for years in her spare time to get a college degree.
"She was amazing, and by example very clear, focused and pragmatic," said Jeff Clayton.
'The joy of discovery'
Clayton's career as a composer-arranger traced a very different arc than his development as a bassist. He picked up the bass at 13, began playing gigs in high school and studied formally with classical teachers and Ray Brown, a seminal bebop bassist, before attending Indiana University.
Clayton didn't begin to seriously pursue composing and arranging until his two years with Basie beginning in 1977. Largely self-taught, he learned the old-fashioned way: by embarrassing himself. "I'd write something, bring it in, think I knew what I was doing, discover I didn't and go back to the drawing board," he said.
His first arrangement was a muddy mess. "It sucked," said Clayton, laughing. Then he transcribed Neal Hefti's "Splanky" from a Basie LP. The roaring shout chorus was a tutorial. Among other details, Clayton discovered that the lead trumpet, lead trombone and lead alto saxophone all were playing the same notes.
"That's where I learned the power of the triple lead," he said. "I didn't read about it in a book. That's one of the things I try to do as a teacher. I don't give students the answers. I try to allow them to experience the joy of discovery. When you find out something for yourself, you don't forget it for life."
Clayton's second arrangement was an original song called "Blues for Stephanie," a groove maker with a curlicue saxophone melody and driving shout chorus that fit Basie like a custom suit. During the first run-through, players tapped their feet, and at the end Basie uttered his highest praise: "Let's do that one more time."
Clayton's vocabulary remains deeply rooted in tradition. Like Basie's stable of arrangers, he loves blues forms and contrasting dynamics and builds swing into his charts via punchy rhythms and riffs. Like Thad Jones, who wrote for Basie before pursuing a more modern idiom, Clayton uncoils complex, astringent harmonies through the ensemble and puffs his chest with peacock bravura. Like Duke Ellington, Clayton writes for individuals, not instruments -- so much so that when players retire or leave his band, Clayton retires arrangements written for them.
Along the way, he sought out elders for lessons, including ex-Basie-ite Frank Foster and Hollywood giant Johnny Mandel, who warned against writing at the piano. "When you sit at the piano, you end up playing the piano," said Mandel. "People don't sing hip chord changes. They sing melodies."
Above all, Clayton's writing is defined by clarity, honest emotionalism and a meticulous craftsmanship that at its most inspired turns regal and sublime. Sophisticated, yes. Cerebral, no.
"John isn't writing to show off himself, he's writing to show off the band," said Dennis Wilson, a trombonist and composer-arranger who played with Clayton in the Basie band and now teaches at the University of Michigan. "He's not trying to show that he's a great arranger -- although he is."
Back at Cliff Bell's, the restored art deco club in Foxtown, Clayton celebrated the maiden voyage of his suite with a post-performance bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Wine has been a passion since his band mates in Diana Krall's group introduced him to its pleasures on a plane bound for Paris in 2001.
Clayton's smile beckoned. He greeted well-wishers at the back of the club, looking each in the eye and giving each their moment. He refilled friends' glasses and delved into conversation, traversing classical music performance styles, criticism, the endless quest to master composition and what, for him, is the ultimate payoff.
"I don't get goose bumps when I write," he said. "I get goose bumps when I hear what the musicians do with what I've written."
RELATED INFORMATION
30th annual Detroit International Jazz Festival
Fri.-Sept. 7
Hart Plaza, Woodward Corridor, Campus Martius, Cadillac Square in downtown Detroit
www.detroitjazzfest.com
The Clayton Brothers Quintet and Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra's performance will include the premiere of John Clayton's "T.H.E. Family, Detroit" at 8:30 p.m. Mon., Carhartt Amphitheatre
John Clayton also appears with fellow bassists Christian McBride and Rodney Whitaker at 6 p.m. Mon., Mack Avenue Pyramid Stage
Contact MARK STRYKER: 313-222-6459 or
stryker@freepress.com
Copyright © 2009 ... Use of this site signifies your agreement to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy/Your California Privacy Rights, updated March 2009.
|
| Detroit Free Press |
| Super GigLight is Here! |
| July 27th, 2009 00:00 |
 Super GigLight - Breakthrough Technology Produces 4 Times More Light! - The result of new advances in LED technology, the Super GigLight utilizes an advanced chip that is both more powerful and more efficient than those previously available. Operates on 4 AA batteries (included) and comes with soft carry pouch.
Super GigLight with AC adapter - 4 Times Brighter yet lightweight, compact and handy, operates on 4 AA batteries (included) and comes with soft carry pouch. Includes AC adapter.
Super GigLight & Super GigLight with AC adapter are now available on the Products Page. |
| Buy Super GigLight! |
| Detroit International Jazz Festival Announces 2009 Detroit-based Performers |
| June 22nd, 2009 12:15 |
 DJF Announces 2009 Detroit-based Performers
The Detroit Jazz Fest is pleased to announce the ’09 lineup of Detroit-based artists who will be performing on Labor Day Weekend.
This year’s lineup includes Johnny O’Neal, Marcus Belgrave, Dennis Coffey Quartet, Straight Ahead, Global Jazz Project, Dave Bennett Quartet, Sheila Jordan & Tad Weed Trio, Wendell Harrison’s Detroit Swing Ensemble, Measured Chaos, Jesse Palter Quartet, Johnnie Bassett & the Blues Insurgents, Carolyn Striho-Rayse Biggs Project, Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra, T Money Green’s Road Work, The Clark Sisters, and the Northwestern High School 1980 Alumni Band – one of the first Detroit high school bands to play the festival and perform in Switzerland (as part of the Montreux-Detroit International Jazz Festival) 30 years ago.
In addition, many of Detroit’s finest musicians will be featured in the Gerald Wilson Orchestra. And guitarist Perry Hughes and pianist Rick Roe will perform in a re-creation of Donald Byrd’s Blue Note gospel-jazz recording, A New Perspective.
In keeping with a recent tradition, we are also presenting several special projects, including:
Lyman Woodard Tribute Organization directed by Leonard King Jr., and Ron English: A salute to Detroit legend Lyman Woodard, led by Leonard King and Ron English and featuring Chris Codish, Dwight Adams, Cornelius “JuJu” Johnson, Steve Hunter and Diego Melendez.
McKinfolks: A reunion of Detroit’s McKinney family and tribute to Harold McKinney– with GayeLynn McKinney, Michelle McKinney, Carlos McKinney and Kiane Zawadi.
Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra in a world premiere of a commissioned work by John Clayton with the Clayton Brothers Quintet.
Ernie Krivda’s Detroit Connection featuring Marion Hayden, Claude Black and Renell Gonsalves in a tribute to John Coltrane, Dexter Gordon and Sonny Rollins.
For more information about the 2009 Lineup and more, go to www.detroitjazzfest.com.
Supporters of the Detroit International Jazz Festival (DJF) include Chase, Mack Avenue Records, Carhartt Clothing Company, the Joyce Foundation, the Kresge Foundation, Absopure, DTE Energy Foundation, Whole Foods, Wayne County, Fox 2, the Michigan Council on Arts & Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. With an annual attendance of 750,000, DJF contributes approximately $90 million to the local economy.
Forward email:
This email was sent to patrick@hessionssessions.com by detroitjazzfest@detroitjazzfest.com.
Update Profile/Email Address | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe™ | Privacy Policy. Email Marketing by
Detroit International Jazz Festival | 660 Woodward Avenue, Suite 13 | Detroit | MI | 48226
|
| Detroit International Jazz Festival |
| PATRICK HESSION... TRUMPET PLAYER! - A Dave Monette Interview |
| May 26th, 2009 00:00 |
 Patrick Hession had a stunning intuition the first time he heard Maynard Ferguson play. Even at that early age, he intuitively knew he would play the lead book on Maynard’s band - and even more, that he would be Maynard’s last lead player. That powerful psychic glimpse of the future helped propel Patrick into a career most lead trumpet players have only experienced in their dreams.
|
| Watch the Interview! |
| Monette 25th Anniversary Party! - Shop Concert - June 30 ~ July 2, 2008 |
| May 26th, 2009 00:00 |
 Night one opened with a piece titled “Fanfare for Dave”, written by trumpeter Phil Snedecor. The fanfare covered most of the notes playable on the trumpet and then some. It starts on a concert F below the staff and ended on a D above double high C on the Bb trumpet. Let me tell you it was a kick to play with these guys. I (Mike Thompson) played the low part on my Prana 1 C, Urban Agnas on part 3 playing his Prana LT C, Charlie Schlueter on the top C trumpet part playing his Raja Samadhi and Patrick Hession burning the 8va part on his MF Prana.
Day 1 - Part 1 of 3
Patrick Hession shows us that he can play with control and a beautiful sound in all registers of the trumpet, low, middle, high and OMG!
Day 2 - Part 2 of 6 (8:52)
The night ended with an all-star jam including the Gary Hobbs Trio and trumpeters Adam Rapa, Patrick Hession, Urban Agnas, Marlon Jordan and Antoine Drye. The place caught fire and burnt down.
Day 2 - Part 5 of 6
Day 2 - Part 6 of 6
Here are some informal moments during the three days of rehearsals, plus performers being witty, funny and sometimes just plain goofy for the camera. Included is video of Ron Miles playing his SATTVA informally for Wynton just before Wynton's concert.
Extra Video, Rehearsal Goofs and Funny Moments...
|
| View All of the Videos! |
| The 2009 Detroit Music Award Winners! |
| April 18th, 2009 00:00 |
 OUTSTANDING CLASSICAL RECORDING & OUTSTANDING CLASSICAL SMALL ENSEMBLE
"Let the Trumpet Sound," Kenneth Robinson, Dave Wagner & Special Guests - Arturo Sandoval, Adolph Herseth, Charles Schlueter, Patrick Hession, Walter White, Randall Hawes, John Rutherford, Michael McGowan, Brian Moon, John Davidson and Luis Rusto.
"Let the Trumpet Sound!" is available at CD Baby and KGRMUSIC.COM. Check out the clips on Ken's Music Page.
OUTSTANDING JAZZ COMPOSER & OUTSTANDING TRADITIONAL JAZZ ARTIST/GROUP
Scott Gwinnell & Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra
www.wsgmusic.com
www.myspace.com/scottgwinnell
www.myspace.com/scottgwinnelljazzorchestra
www.facebook.com/people/Scott-Gwinnell/617633551
|
| 2009 DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS WINNERS LIST! |
| "Brush Fire" is Now Available! |
| March 11th, 2009 09:30 |
 The 16 piece, award-winning, internationally-acclaimed, Detroit-based Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra is a modern-jazz ensemble that performs original compositions and arrangements by their leader Scott Gwinnell and other creative arrangers.
This new album, Brush Fire, is their second album, released by WSG Records. It has met rave reviews so far. Read the Review!
Recent highlights of the Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra include:
A performance at the International Association of Jazz Educators Conference with saxophonist, Dave Liebman.
Performances at Cliff Bells with trumpeter Dominick Farinacci, and vocalist Aria Hendricks.
Awards and nominations from Detroit Music Awards in 2007, 08, and 09.
Upcoming performance with bassist, John Clayton, at the Detroit Jazz Festival.
www.wsgmusic.com
www.myspace.com/scottgwinnell
www.myspace.com/scottgwinnelljazzorchestra
www.facebook.com/people/Scott-Gwinnell/617633551
|
| "Brush Fire" |
| 'Tis the Season with PAS/CAL |
| November 28th, 2008 00:00 |
 Here are two Christmas songs that Patrick and Dan Ladouceur, Patrick's web designer, recorded with Casimer Pascal in December 2002. Dan, who had not touched his trumpet since the last Christmas season, took Patrick to Casimer Pascal's basement one night and came up with all of the trumpet tracks for the following two Christmas songs. Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays from PAS/CAL, Dan and Patrick!
Jingle Bell Rock-a-Nova (2:08)
Blue Christmas (2:35)
Lead and solo tracks written and played by Patrick. |
| Visit PAS/CAL's Website! |
| "Let the Trumpet Sound" is Now Available! |
| November 2nd, 2008 21:08 |
 Kenneth Robinson has just finished his second full length CD for trumpet and pipe organ, now available at CD Baby and KGRMUSIC.COM. Check out the clips on Ken's Music Page. The CD features several special guests. These guests include Arturo Sandoval, Adolph Herseth, Charles Schlueter, Patrick Hession, Walter White, Randall Hawes, John Rutherford, Michael McGowan, Brian Moon, John Davidson and Luis Rusto all accompanied with the incredible virtuosity of Dr. Dave Wagner on the pipe organ. The CD was recorded in the beautiful acoustics of the Blessed Sacrement Cathedral in Detroit, Michigan. The CD has a beautiful musical tribute, in the classical style, from alumni and friends to Maynard Ferguson based on the melody, "Caruso," by Lucio Dalla and features all of these wonderful musicians. It is titled, "Farewell Maynard." Patrick plays trumpet 5, 1st & 2nd solos at beginning and "spirit of Maynard" (high notes) just before the end. Patrick also plays trumpet 2 on the Sonata "Sancti Polycarpi" for 8 trumpets, timpani, 2 trombones & organ by Heinrich Ignaz Franz Biber.
|
| "Let the Trumpet Sound" |
| HESSION'S SESSIONS Guide Reviews! |
| October 15th, 2008 00:00 |
 Patrick is very pleased to report that the method book is being well recieved all around the world! Here are the reviews:
Patrick,
Your book has kept me in shape when school is off, when work is slow, and when I really need to strengthen my chops for shows or lead gigs. I have had it for about 2 years and slowly progressed my way through it. I would love to have a lesson and work out of it, to help alleviate my bad habits (pressure for one), and to learn how YOU do the excercises.
I also recently picked up the BL4 S6 "XLT" Monette piece. It is awesome, the best I have ever played. I like it more than my B4L, and way more than my Bob Reeves. It is perfect for me; shallow bowl shape, huge throat, and big backbore, but not too big.
Kudos on everything man. You're one of the greats in my book.
Bill Jarvis
Montclair State University
NJ
HI EVERYONE,
I'm writing this message simply because I want to express how brilliant PATRICK HESSION'S BOOK is: I've been playing the TRUMPET professionally now since 1981. Up until January 2005, I was always trying to find the perfect trumpet book that would help me DEVELOP my range and endurance. PATRICK'S book is BRILLIANT. I've increased my range from a HIGH 'F' above HIGH C to 'A' above HIGH 'C'. On some days, I also can play above HIGH 'A's. I also feel that PATRICK'S approach to the instrument is what ALL brass players should use, including other brass players like trombone players, etc. I'm also now playing in a six piece band supporting one of the rudest swearing comedians in the world called 'ROY CHUBBY BROWN.' I highly recommend his book to any young or old trumpeter who wants to develop their RANGE, POWER & ENDURANCE
TONY CORISH
Thanks for your excellent method book - it's been very helpful.
Ed Trujillo
Patrick,
I just want you to know how much I appreciate all of your help. You took me with only 2 months of trumpet experience this year and now after 7 months of lessons from you (not to mention your 24/7 trumpet help phone line) I have received a scholarship to the Interlochen Center for the Arts High School. You taught me a foundation that I can build on for the rest of my life.
Thank You!!!
Curtis J.
Hi Patrick,
I bought your method book some time ago and am really enjoying it. It's all good stuff mate.
I was on the Monette site just now and saw the OCTAV-EYE-ZER! cilp. Very funny, would be even better at a gig, with a dead straight face of course.
Cool thanks mate, and maybe one day when I'm over there (or you here) we'll run into each other.
Ashley Markey
Hi Patrick!
Thank you for, "Hessions Sessions"... there are no high notes, just fast air...
Do you plan any concerts in Europe (e.g. Switzerland)?
Regards,
Juergen, Lead Trumpet
"Big Band Liechtenstein"
Hi!
I've been reading your book and the first exercises have helped me a lot. The relaxers are a big help. I hope to see you some day.
Montgomery Anthony
Patrick,
Fabulous show in Ames, IA tonight. Thanks so much for the tips on using your technique book and on playing in general, breathing, etc. You happily spent time helping fellow trumpet players and I really appreciate it!
Perry Beeman
Your Hessions Sessions is the best method I ever used. I do it just as you state and I feel great. Dec 5 is 1 year that I have the book. Were are you playing and is the Maynard band going to proform ?
Yours truly,
Pio Beltrami
Hi Patrick,
I received your book last week. I have to say that I enjoy your playing and
professionalism very much - keep on holding the torch high!
I believe we may have met back in your Glen Miller days as I was playing
lead for Artie Shaw (for 15 years) and the two bands played a number of gigs
on the same bill.
I have played lead with many of the big bands (Woody, Buddy, T Dorsey, etc.)
as well as in many singers road crews (T. Bennet, Sinatra, Rosmary Clooney,
etc.) and am still playing full time doing the shows and sessions in the
Boston area. I tell you this because I believe I know what I'm talking about
when I say that I think your book is timely, very informative and well
written.!!
I studied early with Dock Reinhardt and then Dave Stahl and Carmine Caruso
throughout jr. high and high school, and then found Bill Adam later after
Berklee when I went on the road. I really like and appreciate your
approach/philosophy and have found the book (in a short time) very
refreshing and helpful to my playing! I am rejuvenated in reading your book
and look forward to following your routine for a while...
Congratulations on writing a wonderful and necessary book - I wish I had
written it myself!
Best of luck in the future and I'll look for your next one...
Keith Kostick
Your book is right on. Each lesson is very clear. From DEC 5 to now I made a lot of progess.
THANK YOU
PIO
Dear Mr. Hession, A couple of months ago I bought your methodbook "Hessions Sessions - Guide to consistent, reliable and sometimes, Invincible Chops" from your website. I..m a big fan of yours and I work as a leadtrumpetplayer at one of the theaters in Stockholm, Sweden, playing musicals 5 nights a week. I always go and listen to you when you play in my hometown. The reason I..m writing to you is that I want to thank you. About 5 weeks ago I had to go through a big operation in my stomach. The recovery was very hard and painful but the recordings I have of you helped me a lot to get through that period of time. Now when I have started practising again I have been using your methodbook and the progress to get my chops back has been much easier than I expected. So what can I say more than THANK YOU! The next time you are in stockholm you might recognise me in the audience because I..m the guy in the front row applauding more than the others... God bless you JOHAN
I received your book MONDAY and played the exercises Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and I feel terrific! The best book I ever used.
Pio
Thank you Patrick!
Your book really helps me play more consistently.
David
I am really glad to hear of your recent acheivements. Your book has greatly helped me with my upper register while playing with the Marine Band. I am transfering from San Diego to Parris Island, South Carolina on May 1, 2005. Please let me know when you will be performing in the Carolina area. I would love to catch one of your shows again. Take care and good luck.
Sincerely,
Jamie Walton
Lead Trumpet
Marine Band San Diego
You have inspired me with your book and your bio. i am a freshman in high school and i use the b4l its amzing!!! it helps me out not only pitch wise but also playing long jobs. i play lead for my high school and i use your book. I can play an easy dubba "A". thank you for the book patrick YOUR AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jake nelson
Hi Pattrick your BOOK IS Great cant wait for the NEXT keep up the good work with MAYNARD..
CHEERS!
TONY CORISH
Dear Patrick:
I wanted to follow up with you on your Trumpet book. I'm the guy who bought your book for a double scotch and a few bucks at the Stratospheric event in Los Angeles at the LAX Four Points Sheraton. The book is really great. Kind of a one-stop, systematic distillation of a lot of playing concepts. I have managed to work my way through about half of the exercises and look forward to attacking the rest.
One of the things I found very helpful was your suggestion to sub-divide the beat while counting and breathing. By breaking the beat into sixteenths my mind could no longer wander to thoughts of insecurity, etc. It is a wonderful way to gain the focus your book preaches. There is a book out called The Inner Game Of Music that provides some exercises for focusing, but I found your approach much more helpful.
Thanks and I hope to catch one of your shows soon.
See ya,
MJC
Hey Patrick!
Great site! I saw you down at Croce's two weeks ago and I was so blown away! Your books is great too! a lot of your tips have helped my playing ability! Keep on playing! Nice new horn by the way! David makes some great horns... and mouthpieces too!
Bradley Saunders
Patrick -
The book looks great. Nice to have the emphasis on fundamental trumpet concepts. Relaxed breathing, subdividing, air speed. Good stuff!
Keith Holder
Okay....by no means am I a pro player....but I thought I would like to add my thoughts to this book since I just read it.
Pat's book has a lot to offer. Being a person who has gone through college and I myself always striving to be better, I always am looking for new Ideas...or changes on old ideas.
Pat's book goes into great detail about the mental side of trumpet playing. Which I love. He talks about dedication from the very first note to the last.
Without going into too much detail about the book, it is a very interesting read.
The Warm-up/routine excersices are pretty simple if you know your stuff. A lot of focusing on the air movement. It involves a lot of pedal tone playing as well as moving the air and supporting into the upper register.
I also would like to say that the excersises are put together well, and for the most part the directions are written right with the excersise it self....telling you what to do when you breath, and what to strive for. All in all....it's a great book.
Thanks Pat....
Matt
Hey Patrick,
I'm enjoying your "Hessions Sessions" book I just bought - nice format!
Thanks,
Andy Stobie
PATRICK, I HAVE TO SAY IM HOOKED!I'VE SEEN YOU AND THE BOSS 5 TIMES THIS YEAR AND AND THE BOSS COUNTLESS TIMES THE LAST TWENTY SOME YEARS ALREADY AND LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING THE BAND AT LAX SHERITON AND VA. AND AT BLUES ALLEY IN WACH DC. FOR TWO MORE SHOWS. ANY WAY YOUR BOOK HAS HELPED ME IN RANGE, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO HIT DOUBLE G'S FOR PASS TWENTY YEARS, BUT I CAN DOUBLE C FOR THE FRIST TIME AND CAN DO IT REGULARLY, THANKS. I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT WAS HOLDING ME BACK UNTIL READING AND UNDERSTANDIMG WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS. THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR TIME AND LEADERSHIP ON HOW TO BECOME A BETTER PLAYER. HARD WORK DOES PAY OFF!!!!
MICHAEL SANDERS
Hey Patrick,
I 'm glad to see that you are getting such rave reviews. I too received your book a few months ago. It has proved to be a valuable addition to my practice routine. I've had the privilege to study with Roger Ingram a few times and am a regular student of Vaughn Nark. Your approach fits nicely with their basic principals and adds a few touches that I find helpful.
As a professional martial arts instructor I can relate to your emphasis on the mental aspect of playing and the importance of giving just the right amount of intensity to the task at hand. Efficiency of movement and clarity of intention is what I teach to my students also. I've come back to trumpet after several years of putting it down. I'm finding playing to not only be a release for me, but also a different way of integrating the philosophical and physiological concepts that I practice and teach.
I met you briefly in Phili in July at Zanzibar Blue. I've heard you play about 4 times now and every time you get better! Not only were you smoking' on the bandstand, you were certainly kind enough to chat with me for a few moments. I only hope that I can catch up with you in the future and get some personal insight into how I can better utilize your approach into my daily routine.
Best of luck to you!
Jose Johnson
Chief Instructor
Jose Johnson's Chinese Martial Arts and Wellness Center
www.dowellness.com
No one 'method' book is going to be a silver bullet in terms of making anyone a vastly improved player. Being exposed to a range of ideas and approaches generally helps you form your own personalized approach, and I think Patrick's book has a lot to offer in this manner. It is very well written, and is based on sound, fundamental principles. You also get a sense of his enthusiasm for trumpet; he talks a lot about focusing your mind while practicing, and constantly striving to improve; valuable perspective for any aspiring player. I'm inclined to listen to anyone that has spent as much time as he has playing alongside the boss, and apparently has the same basic approach to the instrument. Every night he walks on stage he entering "the lab" in terms of applying the rules and principles, and has a chance to continually modify the approach based on his results. A very good read.
I ordered Patrick's book through the mail, and it came to me in a very timely fashion (unlike Tommy Martin, but I don't want to get started on that again) ... anyway I think the book is great, and offers a few new twists on a topic that has been written about much ... chops!
I rotate "chop" stuff I got from Bob McCoy, Joe Mosello, Schlossberg, Flow Studies, and Patrick's book as part of my daily routines .. I find giving the chops different things to work on keeps them in the best shape.
It's also laid out very well, and everything is explained well .. and obviously .. it works for Patrick!
I'd say go for it ... I think it's worth the money.
Alan
Great web site...Great book, I bought it...Looking forward to seeing you in Pittsburgh in Nov. My all time favorite Trumpet players, Maynard, Stan Mark, yourself & The Pgh. Symphony Trumpet section. I met you in Pgh. last year, besides being a great trumpet player, you are also a great person.
Don Taylor
Hi. After a week of using your book I have seen amazing progress. I always wonder why my high register lack volume and support. My practice time is more focus and rewarding. I thank you for an excellent book.
Harry
Hession's Sessions Guide to consistent, reliable and somtimes, Invincible Chops! For the sake of lead trumpet playing.
I don't typically review books on this site, particularly trumpet "method" books, and this is no exception. I haven't played trumpet since college, I'm no expert. However, I did recently get a chance to read Maynard Ferguson lead player Patrick Hession's new trumpet book, and it interested me enough to write a little segment on it.
Upon reading this book, you are left with one resounding impression about Patrick: he is deadly serious and extraordinarily committed to being the best trumpet player he can be. This book focuses on attitude and mental approach to playing the trumpet (or any brass instrument, really) more than any other method book I've seen. Rather than discuss minute technical specifics ("eee" vs "aah", for instance), Patrick focuses on concepts that he recommends players visualize and internalize. Granted, there are dozens and dozens of specific exercises in the book designed to improve your range, stamina and control, but what interested me more (since I no longer play) were Patrick's philosophies.
Both Patrick's writings and the "testimonials" in the book feel much more honest than most writing you would tend to find in a trumpet book. Nearly all of the testimonials mention Patrick's ability to shut obstacles out of his mind (such as criticism, fatigue, etc...) and focus purely on the task at hand. Many mentioned that Patrick does not have a lead trumpeter's stereotypical ego, but is genuinely interested in learning from every musical experience.
Patrick's chapter on breathing was particularly interesting, as he uses Maynard as an example of "breathing perfection" when it comes to trumpet playing. We've all suspected as much, but it's fascinating to hear these thoughts expressed by someone who stands 15 feet behind him on every gig.
If you're interested in reading the book (and trying out the exercises), the book is now available to order on Patrick's website (click the image below to visit).
-Matt
Hi Patrick.
It's Andrew from Plaistow NH. I would like to say thanks for the new book you have out. I bought one a few months ago and after spending time reading, I have learned a lot from it. I like how you talk about breathing exercises and different studies for warming up. It has helped my lead playing alot and I can hit notes that are insane and they are easy to play. Once again, thank you for your book and please stay in touch. See you later!
Your friend,
Andrew Giragosian
Hi Patrick,
I took your book and my horn on a week's holiday on a remote island off Greece last week - I spent 4 hours a day with the book -I couldn't put it down. I've found myself doing the breathing exercises wherever I am! - it has already made a big difference to my playing, I play with much more control and confidence already - so I'm sure after 12 months hard work it will be an amazing improvement. Already the guys in a 10 piece Latin band I'm in have said - wow, you're hot tonight - which for a guy that has never played above a high G, or struggled with my breathing was a fantastic boost - thank you Patrick.
I will be coming up from Wales to London on Friday 28th May to see you with MF at Ronnie Scotts Club - are you in a position to maybe give me a half hour or 15 minute lesson / chat? - it would mean so much to make sure I'm understanding the book correctly, I feel very secluded tucked away in Wales. Whatever the cost is not a problem, but I understand how busy you are, and how tiring your week there would be - I could come up the day before if it helps. Many thanks for this guiding light - I just hope I can do your book justice and achieve the notes as well as the exercise someday.
Thank you
Derek Lawton
Hi Patrick,
I've got your book thank you - I'm on my 3rd read before I start work with it - I'm off for a well earned week in a Greek villa next week, I'm taking an old horn, and that's where I'll start work with it. I'm a little scared, as I've never played a double C, but I really believe in your writing, and even if I never do, I'll be a far better player using this book!
The link below is a post I've put onto Trumpet Forum, under the post about your book - I hope that's OK. My handle is 'billystronghorn'
I hope that you will be with MF at Ronnie Scotts London this May, I will be up with my trumpet friends from Wales on Friday 28th May.
Are you available for a lesson on the Thursday / Friday / Saturday? - I would love to have one if so.
Many thanks Patrick.
brian125
I have purchased his method book and in reading the "General Approach", a light went on for me. I too March in a Drum and Bugle corps (Kilties) and have been told about about the importance of air for the upper register as opposed to pressure by various instructors in various terms. Maybe it's just the culmination of the all termonology used by all of those people and then how Patrick Hession phrases it that it just pushed it deeper into my brain where I coould understand what everyone else meant. In any event I've incorporated his thoughts in the prefaces of each of his excercises, where he explains what the goal of the excesise is and how to do it properly to get results, into my regular routine (lip slurs in Arbans or Clarks technical studies excersises and etudes for example) as well as the excersises he's provided. The bottom line is this book is working for me and I look forward to the day that my chops too will be "invincible."
BellsSuperLube
I just recieved Patrick Hession's book on Wed. I had a few hours to kill before a concert so I thought I would start reading his book. First of all I think it contains some excellent information about trumpet playing. Second, his emphasis on concentration helped me realize that I wasn't concentrating like I should be. As a result, my performance on Wednesday night was much better than I had expected. I'm really glad to add this book to my practice routine.
chetbaker
I, also, recently received Patrick's new method book and, after a quick read-through, I think it is going to work very well FOR ME. Not knowing all of the methods Patrick, himself, went through (and I'm sure there were many!) it appears to me that besides the breathing , relaxing, range, sound aspect the book also seems to have strong influences from John Glasel's method, "Relaxation Techniques"...and from another extremely well-known method of one of MY biggest influences/teachers...Carmine Caruso. Since I've been "into" both of these methods for the past 30 some years, or so, I can't see how this book could do anything BUT help me given that there are MANY more insights from Patrick's own experience/career assembled all in one book in a logical, easy to understand method. Thank you, Patrick!!!
Butch
It is a very good book.
Gnostic |
| Buy The Guide! |
| Michael J. Hession, 35 |
| July 9th, 2008 10:52 |
(Brothers Philip, Michael and Patrick)
Michael J. Hession, 35, died Wednesday, July 9, 2008, in his Lafayette residence.
Born May 27, 1973, in Lafayette, he was the son of the late Michael L. and Anna M. Yorko Hession, and graduated from Jefferson High School.
Mr. Hession was a local musician and also worked at Radio Shack. His hobbies were music, electronics, fixing things around the house and cooking.
He was a member of St. Mary Cathedral.
Surviving are his fiancée, Rachelle Lawson of Lafayette; three brothers, Philip M. Hession of Lombard, Ill., Stephen J. Hession of Antioch, Ill., and Patrick E. Hession of Harrison Township, Mich.
Visitation is 5-8 p.m. Monday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Funeral Home, 400 Twyckenham Blvd., with Scripture service at 4:45 p.m. Funeral Mass 10 a.m. Tuesday, St. Mary Cathedral, with Father Dan Gartland officiating. Interment St. Mary Cemetery. Also surviving are several aunts and cousins. Memorials to charity of choice. www.soller-baker.com |
| MONETTE'S 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION! |
| July 3rd, 2008 00:00 |
 The Monette shop just spent the week celebrating the 25th anniversary of the completion of the first Monette trumpet! Great players came in from four continents for three days of concerts, great food and a seriously fun hang! More on this will follow soon, including lots of video from the shop concerts and video interviews with Wynton Marsalis, Charlie Schlueter, Ron Miles, Charles Gorham, Adam Rapa, Marlon Jordon, Urban and Joakim Agnas, Scotty Barnhart, Patrick Hession, Katsu Kameshima, Alfred Willener, Antoine Drye and more. |
| Sneak Preview Video Slideshow! |
| Cinco De Mayo Precelebraton |
| May 2nd, 2008 00:00 |
 May 03, 2008
Hosted By: Salsa Detroit & Club TV (Half Past 3)
When: Saturday May 03, 2008 at 11:00PM
Where: Club TV (Half Past 3)
2548 Grand River Ave.
Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: 313-965-4789
United States
www.myspace.com/hp3detroit
The debut of Orquesta Iré @ Club TV (Half Past 3) on Saturday, May 03, 2008. An all-star cast from several local orchestras will be performing LIVE!
www.myspace.com/orquestaire
|
| View this Event! |
| The 2008 Detroit Music Awards - April 25, 2008 - 7:00PM |
| April 22nd, 2008 00:00 |
 April 25, 2008
The Fillmore Detroit
2115 Woodward Ave.
Detroit, MI 48201
313-961-5451, ext. 21
www.livenation.com
Main Floor VIP Tables are $1,000.00 for a table of 10. Two Valet Parking passes are included.
Main Floor 4 Top Tables are $200.00 and $100.00.
8 Ft. Inner Lobby Space tables for Companies are available for $500.00. Subject to product approval.
Please contact Terri Koggenhop at: immunitymgt@hotmail.com or 248-360-2455 to purchase any of the above tables.
General Admission tickets are $20.00 and will be available only through Ticketmaster and at the door the night of the event.
|
| DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS - 2008 |
| "Back to Balboa: The Music of Stan Kenton" |
| March 27th, 2008 00:00 |
 April 5, 2008
"Back to Balboa: The Music of Stan Kenton" The Toledo Jazz Orchestra wraps up the 2007-2008 Harold Jaffe Concert Series with great flair as it performs its annual tribute to Stan Kenton. Always one of the most eagerly anticipated concerts on the TJO calendar, the band will once again pay tribute to Kenton’s vast legacy of fresh, innovative musicmaking. With screaming horns, progressive grooves and brilliant arrangements aplenty! |
| Visit Toledo.com! |
| DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS - 2008 - NOMINATIONS FOR THE SCOTT GWINNELL JAZZ ORCHESTRA |
| March 26th, 2008 00:00 |
OUTSTANDING JAZZ COMPOSER
Scott Gwinell (spelled wrong on ballot)
OUTSTANDING JAZZ INSTRUMENTALIST
Scott Gwinnell, (KEYBOARDS) - Scott Gwinnell Orquestra
OUTSTANDING TRADITIONAL JAZZ ARTIST/GROUP
Scott Gwinnell Jazz Orchestra
Voting closes at midnight on April 4th and is FREE at the following link: |
| DETROIT MUSIC AWARDS - 2008 |
| The Interlochen Center for the Arts Scholarshop is stocking the HESSIONS SESSIONS Guide! |
| February 16th, 2008 00:00 |
The Interlochen Center for the Arts Scholarshop is stocking Patrick's book, "For the sake of lead trumpet playing - Hession's Sessions Guide to consistent, reliable and sometimes, Invincible Chops!"
Martin Van Maanen
Music Department Manager
Scholarshop
Interlochen Center for the Arts
P.O. Box 199
Interlochen, MI 49643
www.interlochen.org
vanmaanenmd@interlochen.org
Phone: 231-276-7383
Fax: 231-276-7883
A Review by Matt Keller |
| Buy The Guide! |
| Toledo Jazz Orchestra's Tribute to Maynard Ferguson |
| January 13th, 2008 11:16 |
 Review by Rick
This doesn't have a lot to do with running, but I went to the Toledo Jazz Orchestra's Tribute to Maynard Ferguson featuring Patrick Hession and Ric Wolkins with my pals from CrossRoads Community Church's worship band brass, Jeremy, Leo, and Vicki. It was phenomenal! Brought back a lot of memories of high school when we listened to the album Chameleon perpetually, the Interlochen concert, and camping road trips with Mom and Dad and Vicky listening to the album, Carnival, over and over and over again. The screaming trumpets last night courtesy of Mr. Hession and Mr. Wolkins definitely jacked me up for today's race so, I guess this does have a bit to do with running. My trumpeting pal, Leo, has run 6 marathons in his now ended running career including the Toledo, Columbus, and Boston. I've been gleaning some tips from him. My other band-pal, Vicki, is also a marathoner having done one in her college days. Dad, wish you coulda gone to the concert with us, you would have loved it! |
| View full Thread |
| Annual Local 5 Orientation & Holiday Open House |
| December 26th, 2007 11:19 |
 The Annual Local 5 Orientation & Holiday Open House will happen on Monday, January 7 in the Hospitality Room at Local 5 Headquarters. The Orientation begins at 7:00 PM, followed by the Open House at around 8:00 PM. Come to enjoy refreshments and hang with old and new Local 5 colleagues.
|
| Visit Detroit Musicians Entertainment Website! |
| Toledo Jazz Orchestra, continues with a salute to trumpeter Maynard Ferguson |
| December 3rd, 2007 00:00 |
January 12, 2008
The 2007-2008 Harold Jaffe Concert Series featuring Toledo's premier big band, the Toledo Jazz Orchestra, continues with a salute to trumpeter Maynard Ferguson. Patrick Hession, who performed with Ferguson, will be the special guest, and the TJO's own Ric Wolkins will be featured as well. Join us for a salute to the great Maynard Ferguson by the best big band in town!
|
| Visit Toledo.com! |
| 'Tis the Season with PAS/CAL |
| November 23rd, 2007 00:00 |
 Here are two Christmas songs that Patrick and Dan Ladouceur, Patrick's web designer, recorded with Casimer Pascal in December 2002. Dan, who had not touched his trumpet since the last Christmas season, took Patrick to Casimer Pascal's basement one night and came up with all of the trumpet tracks for the following two Christmas songs. Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays from PAS/CAL, Dan and Patrick!
Jingle Bell Rock-a-Nova (2:08)
Blue Christmas (2:35)
Lead and solo tracks written and played by Patrick.
|
| Visit PAS/CAL's Website! |
| NEW Monette FALL 2007 NEWSLETTER! |
| November 20th, 2007 00:00 |
 Dave Monette has just finished his FALL 2007 NEWSLETTER and has nine stories that include ten videos and four audio clips to showcase their work and the talents of some of the players they work with. There are three new audio clips of Patrick's live performance with the Jeff Holmes Big Band, using his XLT BL4 S6 on his MF PRANA Bb TRUMPET, and a new video clip of "Fanfare for Dave" written for Patrick Hession, Charles Schlueter, Manny Laureano and Phil Snedecor (arranger) at the 2007 ITG Conference.
|
| Visit Monette's Website! |
| Young Composers Music Forum > Discussion > Performance - Trumpet vs. Trombone? |
| November 19th, 2007 07:44 |
There is no method out there that will increase your range to a high C in any 'short' amount of time, but there are several that will get you there correctly, strongly, and effectively. Patrick Hession, possibly the greatest high note player alive today (RIP Maynard), has a method out, too.
|
| View full Thread |
| Detroit Federation of Musicians, Local 5 Meeting on Monday, November 19, at 7:00PM |
| October 23rd, 2007 02:15 |
Detroit Federation of Musicians, Local 5
If you are Jazz Musician please see letter below. Please share with other interested Jazz Musicians
Dear Patrick,
There’s no question that the 28th annual Detroit Jazz Fest was a tremendous success. While the lineup, publicity and weather were a big part of it, the improved relationship with Local 5 also played a significant role.
Great strides were made this year between the local musicians and the festival. Being a musician and a member of Local 4 in Cleveland, I reached out to implement a collective bargaining agreement with Local 5 to ensure that musicians would be compensated fairly. In this new agreement, the festival also makes a contribution to the Pension Fund. Kudos to Gordon for his eagerness to work with me, help his musicians and repair the relationship with the Festival.
This year we also established a committee and policies to identify, review and select performers from the area. You may be interested to know that while 260 national musicians performed at Detroit Jazz Fest, 160 local/regional musicians were featured as well.
Another improvement in ’07 was the engagement of Terri Koggenhop in artist relations, who contracted musicians, sent detailed directions and passes in a timely way and basically stayed in touch with the performers throughout the summer.
I would like to meet with all of you to talk about programming, special projects and other issues that may be on your minds.
I hope you can join us at the Union Monday, Nov. 19, at 7pm.
Looking forward –
Terri Pontremoli
Executive Director
Detroit Jazz Fest
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright Detroit Federation of Musicians, Local 5 2007. All rights reserved. www.detroitmusicians.net Powered by GroupMail
|
| Visit Detroit Musicians Entertainment Website! |
| JazzTimes CD Review of "The One and Only Maynard Ferguson" from the September 2007 issue |
| September 1st, 2007 00:00 |
 MAYNARD FERGUSON AND HIS BIG BOP NOUVEAU BAND
The One and Only Maynard Ferguson (Maynard Ferguson Trust)
The reduced big band (four trumpets, three saxophones, trombone and rhythm), steered by lead trumpeters Wayne Bergeron and Patrick Hession, performs the collection of fresh-sounding standards and originals with precision and utmost musicality.
|
| View full Review |
| Lafayette Citizens Band Performs a Spectacular July 4 Concert! |
| July 5th, 2007 00:00 |
 There was a lot of red, white and blue music at the concert, and some special soloists and groups were featured. Lafayette's native son Patrick Hession, who played for six years with the Maynard Ferguson Band, and his brother Phil, were featured on a Bill Kisinger arrangement of "MacArthur Park," and the "Theme from Rocky."
|
| Visit Lafayette Citizens Band Website! |
| fan fare - umass amherst department of music & dance - summer 2007 |
| June 21st, 2007 00:00 |
| Outstanding visiting artists and ensembles joined with Department of Music & Dance faculty and student performers for five evening concerts that included UMass Amherst Professor Jeff Holmes’ Big Band with Wayne Bergeron and Patrick Hession, The Washington Symphonic Brass, The New England Brass Band with Terry Everson, Philip Cobb and Rene Hernandez, and Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band. |
| View full Article |
| Monette PRANA "XLT" BL4 S6, Standard "XLT" BL4 S6 & Signature Double Trumpet Mouthpiece Cases are Here! |
| June 12th, 2007 00:00 |
Patrick's Monette PRANA "XLT" BL4 S6 B-flat Lead Trumpet Mouthpiece, Monette Standard "XLT" BL4 S6 B-flat Lead Trumpet Mouthpiece & Monette Signature Double Trumpet Mouthpiece Cases are now available on the Products Page.
 
(These mouthpieces are NOT bent, so if you would like, the Monette Shop will bend them for you for FREE! All you have to do is pay for shipping & handling).
|
| ITG 2007 Event Reports - Friday |
| June 1st, 2007 17:00 |
 5:00 pm - David Monette: Design, Fabrication and Performance - A Guided Video Tour
Written by Elisa Koehler
A large crowd gathered to hear the latest information from custom trumpet maker David Monette about his new innovations in instrument design and manufacture. Following the traditional ITG trumpet ensemble prelude by students from Drake University, Phil Snedecor introduced another trumpet ensemble playing one of his own compositions, Fanfare for David. Performing with Snedecor were fellow Monette players Charles Schlueter, Manny Laureano, and Patrick Hession, who wowed the audience with his white hot lead playing.
|
| View full Article |
| ITG 2007 Event Reports - Thursday |
| May 31st, 2007 19:00 |
7:00 pm - Washington Symphonic Brass "At The Movies!"
Written by Neville Young
For a moment I was surprised when the "Rocky" fanfare started up again - surely they're not just going to repeat that? - but all was explained when the music took a turn in the direction marked "loud" and Patrick Hession strolled on stage - my goodness, what a Maynard-style extravaganza this last tune became. Like the rest of the audience I left bowled over by the versatility and skill of the Washington Symphonic Brass and with the memory of a really great concert full of variety and flair. Nice one, Milt and the WSB.
|
| View full Article |
| ITG 2007 Event Reports - Wednesday |
| May 30th, 2007 19:00 |
 7:00 pm - Jeff Holmes Big Band
Written by Gary Mortenson
If you like to hear lead trumpet playing featured in the jazz ensemble setting, then this concert had to make you feel like a kid in a candy store. Patrick Hession (Maynard Ferguson's last lead trumpet player) was featured on three tunes on the first half including arrangements of "Danny Boy," "Superman," and "Rocky." It was obvious to all why Maynard hired Patrick as his last lead trumpet player. Through all three tunes he displayed great power, presence, range, and volume. Hession's ability to "power-up" the trumpet in the highest register and still play a nice melody in the middle and extremely low registers is astounding. Maynard fans got exactly what they wanted, and audience members who might not have been familiar with that type of trumpet playing got a true initiation into what that special fraternity is all about. The last tune of Hession's set, "Rocky," really brought me back to my youth as a high school trumpet player in mid 1970s suburban Chicago, and to the many times I went to various area high schools to see Maynard with his big band perform for his fanatic following (of which I was a fully-vested member). Thank you Patrick, for bringing back those great memories...
|
| View full Article |
| ITG 2007 Event Reports - Wednesday |
| May 30th, 2007 09:00 |
 9:00 am - Maynard Ferguson Tribute
Written by John Irish
How does one sum up the career, importance, influence, or the person as unique as Maynard Ferguson. A panel discussion led By Ed Sargent, paid tribute to the great Maynard who passed away in August, 2006. Contributors on the panel included Wayne Bergeron (started in the band 1986), Carl Fischer (started in 1993), and Patrick Hession (from 2000—Maynard’s last lead trumpet player), and Dan Potts, who helped with the video montage and historical information. Maynard’s daughters, Lisa and Wilder were also in attendance.
|
| View full Article |
| "Maynard Ferguson Tribute" DVD |
| May 4th, 2007 00:00 |
 This Double DVD Tribute Package includes the Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert held September 20, 2006 at the University of Missouri Touhill Performing Arts Center in St. Louis and over 60 minutes of Historical Bonus Footage.
The featured concert from St. Louis brought together more than 30 alumni artists from Maynard's sixty plus years of entertaining audiences around the world. In a manner of words, the tribute was the ultimate symphony dedicated to a man so many called “The Boss”. The DVD of the concert has a running time of over 120 minutes and also includes many great photos of Maynard throughout the years.
The second DVD includes more than an hour of bonus footage excerpts, many of which have never before been seen, from performances all over the world. Recorded between 1950-2006, these excerpts demonstrate Maynard's trumpet artistry and trademark exuberance as a world renowned bandleader.
A portion of the net proceeds from the DVD sales will go to the Maynard Ferguson Music Scholarship Fund at the University of Missouri - St. Louis.
|
| "Maynard Ferguson Tribute" DVD |
| "The One And Only Maynard Ferguson" CD |
| May 4th, 2007 00:00 |
Recorded in July of 2006 (only weeks before Maynard's passing), The One and Only Maynard Ferguson is Maynard's final studio recording. The musicians on this album are a collection of old friends and alumni from Maynard's amazing career.
Personnel:
Maynard Ferguson - Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Bandleader
Wayne Bergeron - Trumpet and Flugelhorn (lead on tracks 1, 2, 3, 4, 6)
Patrick Hession - Trumpet and Flugelhorn (lead on tracks 5, 7, 8, 9)
Serafin Aguilar - Trumpet and Flugelhorn
Ken Edwards - Trumpet and Flugelhorn
Mike Dubaniewicz - Alto Saxophone
Chip McNeill - Tenor and Soprano Saxophones
Denis DiBlasio - Baritone Saxophone
Steve Wiest - Trombone
Jeff Lashway - Piano
Brian Mulholland - Bass
Stockton Helbing - Drums and Cymbals/Music Director
Special Guest: Christian Jacob - Piano
Track Listing:
1. Without A Song - Arranged by Chip McNeill
2. Besame Mucho - Arranged By Steve Wiest
3. Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone - Arranged by Steve Wiest
4. Vita Bella - Composed and Arranged by Denis DiBlasio
5. Dr. Fox PHD - Composed and Arranged by Denis DiBlasio
6. Lost Horizons - Composed and Arranged by Christian Jacob
7. Surviving Soho - Composed and Arranged by Denis DiBlasio
8. The Days of Wine and Roses - Arranged by Denis DiBlasio
9. Darn that Dream - Arranged by Denis DiBlasio
|
| "The One And Only Maynard Ferguson" CD |
| My lesson with Patrick Hession |
| April 28th, 2007 04:55 |
By Mikester
Patrick’s breath capacity is amazing! We would breath at a constant rate for 7 beats. Even though we were breathing at close to the same rate, I was completely full before 5 beats. Patrick went all the way through 7 beats. To give you some idea of the difference in our sizes, Patrick is about 5’7” medium-athletic. I am 6’6” large frame. So, I was shocked at how much more air he could intake.
Other items he stressed in the exercises were the breath attacks versus the tongue attacks. As we worked on the breath attack, Patrick demonstrated his mastery of “whisper tones.” I have heard of them, but have not witnessed a demonstration. Patrick can begin a note that is so faint it is barely audible. Hence their name. He begins these notes and crescendos to double forte and back to whisper. Tremendous control. |
| View full Thread |
| 4th Edition HESSIONS SESSIONS Guides Coming Soon! |
| April 1st, 2007 00:00 |
 SPECIAL APRIL 1ST ANNOUNCEMENT: THE MONETTE OCTAV-EYE-ZER!
If you have been looking for a way to improve your upper register and really "zero-in" on those troublesome high notes, consider our special April 1st edition Monette "OCTAV-EYE-ZER."
|
| View Outrageous Monette OCTAV-EYE-ZER Video! |
| UVSC JAZZ ENSEMBLE PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE LATE MAYNARD FERGUSON |
| March 21st, 2007 00:00 |
Thanks again for the remarkable job last December. You and Reggie made a great team. The alumni magazine at UVSC picked up the story of the MF tribute and published a short article. It is on page 12 of the online version found at: Click and turn to page 12.
Director of Jazz Studies, David Fullmer, recently led his UVSC jazz and percussion students on an unforgettable journey into the life and talent of the late jazz trumpet player and bandleader, Walter Maynard Ferguson.
Concluding the phenomenal concert in the Ragan Theater, students who idolized Ferguson (many their entire musical careers) had the opportunity to showcase their talents by performing a variety of Ferguson pieces. The highlight of the experience, however, was when Patrick Hession and Reggie Watkins, two longtime members of the Maynard Ferguson Band, traveled to UVSC to conduct a workshop and then perform with UVSC students.
According to Jared Herald, UVSC student trumpet player and member of the jazz ensemble, "We not only saw a great display of brass wizardry, but we actually had the opportunity to learn from two terrific performers. Except for Maynard, I have never heard anyone nail the songs the way Patrick did."
According to Fullmer, who has a doctorate of musical arts from the University of Washington, "Maynard was a very important historical figure in jazz history. Many jazz purists looked down on Ferguson's rock-style jazz, but he was a heavy influence that sparked in many young musicians a lifelong affinity and desire to learn and play jazz."
Today, Ferguson is known as one of the most influential musicians in Jazz history. He passed away Aug. 23, 2006, in Ventura, Calif., at age 78. He is known for playing with big band pioneers including Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Dizzy Gillespie. Ferguson recorded more than 60 albums.
|
| UVSC Sequel - Spring 2007 |
| South Medford High School in Medford, Oregon annual Jazz Celebration in May 2007! |
| March 3rd, 2007 13:40 |
 Hey Patrick,
I just learned that you will be gracing the stage of South Medford High School in Medford, Oregon, for our annual Jazz Celebration in May 2007! What a thrill it will be to have you play with our outstanding students musicians and WOW our community with your music! We still revel in the memory of a couple years ago, when Maynard , himself, came to our school and set it ablaze with his trumpet! (When my son, the trombonist in The Suitz, lost his Razr cell phone last year, his greatest grief was that it had his only photo of him and Maynard on it!)
Our school is blessed to have the invaluable services of the amazing Stan Mark as coach for The Suitz, and we love him and what has has done for all our bands and for music in our community! In a time when public schools are slowly losing music education, our community still works hard to support music!
If anyone out there wants to hear pure Jazz Music deeply honored in small-town America, come to Medford, Oregon, on Saturday, May 12, 2007, for a stunning evening of Jazz, as it deepens its roots in our stellar student musicians, accompanied by the famous Patrick Hession!!
See you in May, Patrick--and this time we'll have the cameras ready!!
Tricia
|
| Patrick Hession and Reggie Watkins performed at Utah Valley State College in Orem, Utah |
| February 26th, 2007 10:21 |
Review by Jared Hearld
Concert Date: December 8, 2006
Utah Valley State College, Orem, Utah
Patrick Hession and Reggie Watkins recently performed at Utah Valley State in Orem, Utah. They arrived in town on thursday just in time for one rehearsal before the show on friday. On tap for rehearsal was "Chameleon," "Rocky," "Gospel John," "MacArthur Park," "Danny Boy," "Birdland," "Superbone Meets the Badman," "The Way We Were," and "Frame For the Blues." Through the three hour rehearsal the band was no less than amazed at the talent of Patrick and Reggie. We not only saw a great display of brass wizardry, but saw two great educators. The night rehearsal ended with powerful and slick soloing from Reggie and Patrick just wasting Double C's on "Chameleon." I could have swore these two had enough chops for another three hour rehearsal.
The show started with Reggie and Patrick on "Chameleon." The band started it's groove on "Chameleon" and within just a minute or so in came Patrick with ear bleeding descending lines starting on Double G. Just as we were ending up the 'A' section Patrick led us in to the 'B' section with a Maynardesque Double C. Reggie soon took over with his JB's inspired solo. I believe he even threw in a quote from "Pass the Peas Please." Put some pounds on Reggie and I swear I was listening to Fred Wesley with more grace. To end the song Patrick electrified the crowd with his over Double C usage.
Just in case the crowd didn't get enough of Patrick's high wire act he began playing "Frame For the Blues." Except for Maynard I have never heard anyone nail the beginning and end of this song the way Patrick did. Maynard would be proud! The soloing moments again belonged to Reggie. This guy is so diverse with his playing. I could just imagine myself being at Birdland listening to Slide Hampton playing his own arrangement.
Next on the list was a favorite ballad of Maynard's, "Danny Boy." Patrick's chops just never seem to quit. Patrick gets to show his delicate side as well as his lyrical playing in all registers. Remember, this is all after a long rehearsal the night before and a dress rehearsal the day of. This piece really does show how complete a player Patrick is. The descending lines from G, A, and finally Double C were all done with such grace. If I didn't know which notes he was playing from seeing them on the page I would have never guessed they were that high. He just played with such ease all the way to low F# at end the song.
Next up was "Superbone Meets the Badman," featuring Reggie. This hard swinging chart was just more evidence of Reggie's diversity. As Utah Valley's bari player and Reggie went head to head it was fun to hear the mingling of ideas. Always a playful conversation! What a spark that was given to the band through Reggie's heavy swingin', hard hittin' solo. Reggie was also featured on "The Way We Were." Reggie demonstrated a great lesson in ballad playing to the packed house.
To end the show Reggie, Patrick, and the Band hit the packed house hard with "MacArthur Park," "Gonna Fly Now," and "Birdland." Throughout the night there was flawless execution on the part of Patrick and Reggie. The love for the audience, music, and Maynard Ferguson were all very apparent in their playing. The crowd was left electrified!
|
| Patrick's personal statement about Maynard Ferguson |
| February 23rd, 2007 04:29 |
 "The first time I saw Maynard Ferguson, GOD told me in a very loud and clear voice, 'That is what you are going to do!' So, from that day forward, I always dreamed about being a trumpet player. When I finally started playing the trumpet, I always had faith in the fact that I just knew that I would play lead trumpet for Maynard Ferguson and that I would be his very last lead trumpet player. With this faithful knowledge, I then dedicated my entire life to Maynard and his band. As a result of my dedication, it got me on a lot of other gigs, but all I really wanted to do was be there for Maynard. I really miss hangin' out with Maynard (Walter) until 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM in the morning, playing a gig that same day and then doing it all over again that night! What times! Maynard taught me to laugh, make people happy and have fun while doing it! He used to say to the band, 'This is not a moment in modern American music history, so just play and have fun.' I was on the road with Maynard Ferguson a little over six years (June 23, 2000 - August 23, 2006) and it was the best, happiest, most musically satisfying time of my life! Thank you GOD and thank you BOSS!"
Patrick E. Hession, Lead Trumpet
Maynard Ferguson & Big Bop Nouveau
|
| "MF Horn VI: Live at Ronnie's" |
| January 13th, 2007 00:00 |
 all about jazz
By Jack Bowers | MF Music (2007)
There are some talented newcomers in this edition of BBN and a few holdovers including trombonist/music director Reggie Watkins and lead trumpeter Patrick Hession. There’s even a distinguished alumnus, Denis DiBlasio, sitting in on baritone sax. One of the newbies, pianist Jeff Lashway, is a real find, while veteran drummer Stockton Helbing continues his steady improvement.
|
| View full Review |
| The HESSIONS SESSIONS Upcoming Events Calendar is here! |
| January 1st, 2007 00:00 |
Due to the overrun of spam on the HESSIONS SESSIONS Forum, Patrick has decided to replace the forum with the "All-New" HESSIONS SESSIONS Upcoming Events Calendar! 
(The Upcoming Events Calendar is also located at the top of this News Page).
|
| View Calendar |
| 'Tis the Season with PAS/CAL |
| November 24th, 2006 00:00 |
Here are two Christmas songs that Patrick and Dan Ladouceur, Patrick's web designer, recorded with Casimer Pascal in December 2002. Dan, who had not touched his trumpet since the last Christmas season, took Patrick to Casimer Pascal's basement one night and came up with all of the trumpet tracks for the following two Christmas songs. Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays from PAS/CAL, Dan and Patrick!
Jingle Bell Rock-a-Nova (2:08)
Blue Christmas (2:35)
Lead and solo tracks written and played by Patrick.
|
| Visit PAS/CAL's Website! |
| The Louisville All-Star Big Band: Remembering Maynard Ferguson |
| September 27th, 2006 06:56 |
 The show was incredible!!!
By The BST Blast
What a show! I mean, WOW!!! I'm not just blowing my own horn (pun intended). Sure, I put it together - but I take no credit for all the musicians' talents. Patrick Hession (Maynard Ferguson's last lead trumpet) was absolutely phenomenal. His tone and mastery of the stratosphere immediately made jaws drop. Many couldn't believe their ears. His double-C at the end of "Danny Boy" was held out longer than I've ever heard! It really made the audience reminisce about their favoite Maynard concert/recording. The only thing that would've been better? Maynard himself. It was obvious more than a little of M.F. rubbed off on Patrick in the 6+ years he occupied the most gruelling chair in jazz!
|
| View full Article |
| Maynard Ferguson, 78; Trumpeter, Big Band Leader Achieved Pop Success |
| August 25th, 2006 00:00 |
 By Jon Thurber, Times Staff Writer
August 25, 2006
Maynard Ferguson, the big band leader and trumpeter whose screaming, high-register solos and pop-tinged arrangements thrilled his fans and sometimes appalled his critics, died Thursday. He was 78.
Ferguson died of kidney and liver failure, brought on by an abdominal infection, at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura, said Steve Schankman, his manager.
FOR THE RECORD:
Maynard Ferguson obituary: The obituary of jazz trumpeter Maynard Ferguson in Friday's California section said he died Thursday. He died Aug. 23rd.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An active musician, Ferguson recorded 60 albums in his long career and generally played about 150 annual engagements up until last year, Schankman said.
He had a weeklong run at the Blue Note in New York City last month, which he followed up by recording a new album with his Big Bop Nouveau band. He was due to begin a tour of Japan with the band in mid-September.
He started experiencing health problems on his return to his home in Ojai, Schankman said, and was hospitalized as his condition deteriorated.
Schankman said he spoke to Ferguson by phone on Monday and the musician told him, "Don't cancel anything . we are going to beat this."
Ferguson was nominated for a Grammy award in 1978 for his soaring recording of Bill Conti's composition "Gonna Fly Now," the theme from the film "Rocky." The song, on Ferguson's album "Conquistador," was one of his few chart-hitting recordings. It reached No. 22 on the pop album charts in 1977.
He also made commercially appealing recordings of the Jimmy Webb tune "MacArthur Park" and the Beatles' "Hey Jude."
His success with pop tunes was unusual for a player who cut his teeth on the classic jazz ensemble: the big band.
Ferguson was born May 4, 1928, in a suburb of Montreal. A child prodigy, Ferguson was playing violin and piano at age 4. At 13, he was soloing with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. Orchestra. By 16, he was playing trumpet and leading a dance band that featured a young pianist named Oscar Peterson.
His band was often the opening act for visiting American big bands, including those led by Count Basie and Stan Kenton. The Americans were impressed with Ferguson's trumpet.
"I got a lot of offers to go out on the road," Ferguson told The Times some years ago. "Kenton told me I had a place as a featured trumpet player any time I wanted it."
By 1949, Ferguson had moved across the border, but Kenton was taking a break from touring and recording. So Ferguson made his U.S. debut in saxophonist Boyd Raeburn's big band. He also played in Jimmy Dorsey's band and Charlie Barnet's band before Kenton went back to work in 1950 with Ferguson in the trumpet section.
From 1950 to 1953, Ferguson was arguably the hottest trumpeter in jazz. His screaming, high-register trumpet was the cornerstone of Kenton's noted brass section. His dramatic style is featured on the tune "Maynard Ferguson," written by Ferguson, Kenton and Shorty Rogers and featured on the now-classic album "Stan Kenton Presents."
Ferguson was taking individual honors as well as being named best trumpeter in Down Beat magazine's annual poll for three consecutive years starting in 1950.
After leaving Kenton in 1953, he set out for Hollywood and got a job with Paramount Pictures playing on soundtracks. But he quickly found that work unsatisfying and returned to jazz. He led the Birdland Dreamband in New York and then formed what would be one in a series of 13-piece touring bands known for their biting brass sections.
His bands also would be known as great training grounds for some noted players. Over the years, his alumni would include saxophonist Wayne Shorter and keyboardist Joe Zawinul, who were founding members of Weather Report; pianist Chick Corea, trumpeter Chuck Mangione and arrangers such as Don Sebesky and Don Menza.
By 1967, however, big bands took a sharp dip in popularity and Ferguson disbanded his group.
His life took some sharp turns as well.
He moved his family to India on a spiritual quest and then lived in England. He began forming bands that used more pop-oriented material. This paved the way for his success in the 1970s with the theme from "Rocky."
And though this formula proved commercially viable over the next two decades, it often didn't play well with critics, who faulted the lack of subtlety in his playing and some dubious material.
Reviewing a 1979 performance at the Roxy, critic Leonard Feather wrote that "Ferguson's audiences, seeking the ultimate in pyrotechnical displays by a trumpeter with chops of steel, need look no further. On the other hand, music lovers searching for taste, dynamic contrast and sensitivity will have to look elsewhere."
Critics had a generally more sympathetic view of his later ensembles, notably the Big Bop Noveau band, which focused on straight-ahead jazz.
The spiritual quest Ferguson started in India in the 1960s led him to move his family to Ojai, then the base of operations for the Indian philosopher J. Krishnamurti.
Ferguson was also a noted jazz teacher at the high school and college levels.
He is survived by his daughters Kim, Lisa, Corby and Wilder.
A memorial service, to be held in St. Louis, is being planned for mid-September. Memorial contributions may be made to the Maynard Ferguson Scholarship Fund at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright (c) 2006 Los Angeles Times
|
| Jazz trumpeter Maynard Ferguson dies at 78 |
| August 24th, 2006 08:40 |
 Musician found mainstream success on "Gonna Fly Now" solo in 'Rocky'
Efrem Lukatsky / AP
Updated: 8:40 p.m. ET Aug 24, 2006
Jazz star Maynard Ferguson, known for his soaring high notes and for his hit recording of "Gonna Fly Now," which lent the musical muscle to the "Rocky" movies, died Wednesday night. He was 78.
Updated: 8:40 p.m. ET Aug 24, 2006
LOS ANGELES - Jazz trumpeter Maynard Ferguson, known for his soaring high notes and for his recording of "Gonna Fly Now," a hit version of the theme from the "Rocky" movies, has died. He was 78.
|
| View full Article |
| Jazz Improv Magazine |
| August 23rd, 2006 00:00 |
Maynard Ferguson - Interview
by Joe Patitucci
MF: There are changes that go on. For instance, when we’re at the Blue Note in New York, I’ll have Mike Dubanowitz, Chip McNeil, and Dennis DiBlasio in the sax section. The trumpets are Patrick Hession, Michael Manthey and Serafin Aguilar who’s fantastic. Steve Weist is the only trombone. My long-time rhythm section of Jeff Lashway, piano Brian Mulholland, bass and Stockton Helbing, drums will be there. Stockton is also the musical director. Some have been with me for a long time and some are coming back.
|
| View full Article |
| Patrick Hession - The Trumpet is a Soprano Instrument |
| June 9th, 2006 00:00 |
 Friday, June 9 - 9:30 am
By Chuck Tumlinson
The clinic included several ideas for high range playing. If you improve in the normal range, this will also help your higher range. Also practice pretty melodies in higher keys. Either practice up in half steps, or take those melodies up an octave. (Hession learned this from Maynard!).
These are just a few of the ideas that Patrick Hession imparted to the receptive audience. He is obviously a strong player with an easygoing, pleasant personality. Hession is a goldmine with regard to his perceptive insights in the lead and bravura tradition of trumpet playing.
|
| View full Article |
| FYI - Patrick is available for Trumpet Lessons, Clinics/Concerts and even your Wedding Ceremony! |
| May 27th, 2006 00:00 |
 Patrick's MySpace Music
Patrick's MySpace
Patrick just loves giving lessons to eager trumpet students and he also loves giving trumpet clinics/concerts and even play for your wedding ceremony! So, if you are interested in any of these services, please feel free to contact Patrick Hession or Daniel Falcone through the information below:
For Trumpet Lessons, Weddings, etc. - Email Patrick Hession at: patrick@hessionssessions.com or call Patrick at: 248-770-0560.
For Clinics/Concerts - Email Daniel Falcone at: danielfalcone@earthlink.net.
(This information is also located on the Contact Page).
|
| Maynard Ferguson and his Big Bop Nouveau Band |
| May 7th, 2006 00:00 |
 Even with the unusually long performance, lead trumpet player Patrick Hession never flinched. He continued to perform amazing feats of stratospheric trumpet work all the way to the end of the performance. He has a command of technique, style, range, and endurance that the rest of us can only dream of.
|
| View full Article |
| Michael L. Hession, 61 |
| April 8th, 2006 00:00 |
 Journal and Courier (Lafayette, IN)
April 8, 2006
Section: OBIT
Page: 2C
Michael L. Hession, 61
Author: AR
Michael Lawrence Hession, 61, of 1009 Southlea Drive, was overjoyed to depart from this life to meet his Maker and others on the other side at 8:35 p.m. Thursday, April 6, 2006, at his residence, after suffering over 10 years with cardio obstructive pulmonary disease.
Born on March 1, 1945, to Leo Lawrence and Mary (Klinker) Hession he was the fourth of six children. He was raised in Lafayette, educated at St. Mary's Elementary School and Central Catholic High School, graduating in 1963. Prior to his senior year, he joined the Indiana Army National Guard, and served until he underwent 6 months of basic training and clerk school at Ft. Knox, Ky., following graduation. He then served as battalion medical clerk, battalion armorer and company clerk for Headquarters Company A,113th Medical Company, 38th Infantry Division from 1962-1968.
His first venture into the outside world was served in the timekeeping department of Ross Gear Division of TRW, Inc., from 1964-1966, where he left to serve as a professional letter carrier for nearly 30 years at the United States Postal Service. He retired on disability in 1995.
A lifelong member of St. Mary's Cathedral Church, he served as an altar boy there and at the Sisters Adorers Precious Blood Monastery during his elementary years, as well as sang in the boy's choir. He then became the 50-year ranking member of the Cathedral Adult Traditional Choir, giving up due to failing health.
Married on July 29, 1967, in St. Mary Cathedral Church to Anna Maxine Yorko of Punxsutawney, Pa., she was a ninth twin-sister of nine children. She preceded in death, following nearly 23 years of marriage and a 10-year battle with breast cancer at the young age of 44, after blessing him with four handsome and successful sons.
He served proudly as the third generation Grand Knight of Lafayette Council #456 of the Knights of Columbus from 1987-1988, when he was appointed Indiana District Deputy #15 by State Deputy Bernard Gannon. He served for over two years, relinquishing his duties through second term due to the health of his wife, who died in early March of 1990. He also served as Council Envoy to Fr. Gibault School for Boys and Girls, owned and supported by the Indiana K of C south of Terre Haute on U.S. 43S, and was a proud member and honor guard for the Marquis de Lafayette Fourth Degree Assembly of the Knights of Columbus and American Legion Post 11.
He was a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers #466, AARP, an active member and supporter of the 12-Step AA Program. He oversaw morning meetings and volunteered each Tuesday at the S.U.R.F. Center for over four years after retirement, by the grace of God. He was also a charter member of the Old Hickory Democratic Club and a former member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Moose Lodge.
Surviving are four sons, Patrick Edward, on tour as lead trumpet for the legendary Maynard Ferguson and his Big Bop Nouveau Band, Philip Michael of Elk Grove, IL, Stephen John of Vernon Hills, IL, and Michael Joseph of Lafayette; one brother, Patrick Joseph (wife: Penny) of Millers Creek, N.C.; three sisters, Mary Cecilia LaReau (Jim) of Lafayette, Jude Ann Synesael (Jerry) of Lafayette and Eileen Joan Hession-Weiss (Jim) of Seabring, Fla. Preceded in death include his wife and parents, as well as a younger brother Philip Edward, who died at 17 months.
Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Sunday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd., with scripture service at 7:30 p.m. Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Mary Cathedral, Fr. Bob Klemme officiating. Interment St. Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Mary Cathedral Restoration Project or Father Gibault School Foundation.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright (c) Journal and Courier. All rights reserved. Reproduced with the permission of Gannett Co., Inc. by NewsBank, inc.
|
| "MF Horn VI - Live at Ronnie's" |
| March 10th, 2006 00:00 |
MAYNARD FERGUSON RELEASES FIRST LIVE ALBUM IN 12 YEARS!
"MF Horn VI - Live at Ronnie's"
St. Louis, MO (March 10, 2006) - Maynard Ferguson Music USA, Inc. announces the release of their new live album, "MF Horn VI - Live at Ronnie's" on Tuesday, March 28th, 2006. Recorded in the summer of 2005 at the legendary Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in London, England, this album features exciting new arrangements of classic jazz standards done in the colorful Ferguson way, as well as a few quintessential Ferguson chart toppers.
|
| Amazon.com |
| Ferguson wows Severinsen's crowd |
| February 27th, 2006 00:00 |
 Lead trumpeter Patrick Hession also uses yoga breathing techniques, but one could not see it during his brief appearances at the solo mike. Not a practitioner of the Stephen's method, Hession's sound is considerably darker in the upper register than Ferguson's. Hession told me after the show that he uses his Ferguson equipment and set-up for classical gigs because he can play with full, rich overtones over the whole spectrum.
|
| View full Article |
| Maynard Ferguson - Live at Santa Fe Station, Las Vegas, NV - October 9, 2005 |
| February 20th, 2006 00:00 |
 New video from Maynard Ferguson & Big Bop Nouveau has been added to the video page. This footage is from October 9, 2005 at Santa Fe Station in Las Vegas. There are two versions of each video clip available for download (Windows Media format and iPod-ready format).
|
| Click here to see the video! |
| Voice of Raisin - Concert Review: Maynard Ferguson and His Big Bop Nouveau Band |
| February 7th, 2006 00:00 |
February 7, 2006
Concert Review: Maynard Ferguson and His Big Bop Nouvea Band
Filed under: Music - Willy @ 4:27 pm
February 6, 2006 - Bingham High Auditorium
Wow. Maynard and his band know how to put on a show! Ferguson's playing is still very strong. High notes that defy belief, and a tremulant, floating style that is urgent, but un-hurried. Maynard seems to have assembled a top-flight group to accompany him. Trumpets - Patrick Hession, Jamie Hovorka and Peter Ferguson (Maynard's Nephew). Good, solid trumpet section to back up the master. Hession shined on a medley of Maynard Ferguson favorites. He was trumpetting some truly stratospheric pitches. Saxes - Julio Monterray (alto) and Matt Parker (tenor), Trombonist Reggie Watkins seemed very comfortable in the second-in-command spot, directing traffic on the band stand. Watkins' playing left very little to be desired. Pianist Jeff Lashway played brilliantly on a couple of nice ballands. The bassist, Brian Mulholland, played some virtuosic solos. I love it when a good bass player is really wailing in their upper register, and you realize they're still walking, too. To me, the highlight of the evening was the extended, snares-off drum solo by Stockton Helbing. Helbing is a graduate of the University of North Texas, where he studied drums with Ed Soph. The band played a blistering and inventive arrangment of "Girl From Ipanema" and when the drum solo started, the rest of the group vacated the stage. Helbing proceeded to take the audience on a comprehensive tour of the drumset. I was blown away by his control of dynamics, and the different colors he was able to pull out of his kit were absolutely stunning. The solo lasted between 5 and 10 minutes, and I didn't breath the whole time. Blazing single stroke technique, coupled with a flowing melodic style. Incredible.
Also worth noting is the lighting. Now, I'm not too into the commercialization of our dear art form, and if you'd told me there was to be a light show, I would have scoffed. Well, I'm re-assesing that this morning. From subtle red-hues for the band while Maynard wailed in a single pin-spot to precisely timed lighting to accompany kicks from the horn section, the lights for the show were complex but never distracting. In fact, they served to focus the audience's attention on the soloist or to enhance sudden mood changes in the score. Amazing.
The outstanding technical and artistic mastery of the musicians, coupled with the sensitively applied lighting combined to make this one of the most entertaining performances of Jazz I have ever seen. Kudos to Maynard and the Band.
|
| Christmas and Hanukkah and Skynyrd, oh my! |
| January 21st, 2006 00:00 |
 The holiday season was as busy as ever for Patrick in 2005. Since Christmas and Hanukkah fell on December 25th this year, Patrick not only played three Catholic Masses but he then played a four hour rehearsal followed by a three hour and fifteen minute Hanukkah show that very evening. On December 30th, Patrick had the honor of playing with Rock Legends Lynyrd Skynyrd, 2006 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees.
|
| Lynyrd Skynyrd Official Website |
| 'Tis the Season with PAS/CAL |
| November 25th, 2005 00:00 |
 Here are two Christmas songs that Patrick and Dan Ladouceur, Patrick's web designer, recorded with Casimer Pascal in December 2002. Dan, who had not touched his trumpet since the last Christmas season, took Patrick to Casimer Pascal's basement one night and came up with all of the trumpet tracks for the following two Christmas songs. Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays from PAS/CAL, Dan and Patrick!
Jingle Bell Rock-a-Nova (2:08)
Blue Christmas (2:35)
Lead and solo tracks written and played by Patrick.
|
| Visit PAS/CAL's Website! |
| Scenes from Arts-burgh - PittsburghLIVE.com |
| October 25th, 2005 00:00 |
 Maynard Ferguson
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Trumpeter Maynard Ferguson showed Saturday at Dowe's on 9th that he is willing to start acting his age.
At 77, the high-note wizard spent most of his act directing his Big Bop Nouveau from a stool in the middle of the bandstand. That decision was helped by the fact that trumpeter Patrick Hession is able to play his role and reach the soaring trumpet heights for which Ferguson is known.
Oh, he played quite a bit himself and showed he still is the phenom who has been on the road more than 50 years. And that seemed to please the full house at the Downtown club who gave the band an enthusiastic response.
|
| On the Road Again with Maynard! |
| September 21st, 2005 00:00 |
 After getting off the road with Maynard Ferguson & Big Bop Nouveau, Patrick had a pretty busy summer of 2005. As soon as Patrick got home in May, he had a baroque trumpet and organ wedding with organist Larry Przybysz. Patrick then flew out to play with Paul Anka at Harrah's Casino in St. Louis, MO. Patrick was then called by Lon Bronson to play lead trumpet in "The Rat Pack Returns in The Tribute to Frank, Sammy, Joey & Dean" for a six-week run at the Detroit City Theatre. Patrick also had various summer gigs with Maynard Ferguson & Big Bop Nouveau and some of them included, the Blue Note in New York, the Cesky Krumlov International Music Festival 2005 and a fun filled week at Ronnie Scott's in London! To end off the summer, Patrick had a Local 5 trust fund gig, a gig with Grupo Fuego, The OJ's and a couple of gigs with Spyder Turner. One of which was at the world famous Woodward Dream Cruise! Kicking off the fall tour, Patrick will be back on the road with Maynard Ferguson & Big Nouveau starting September 23rd. We hope to see you there!
|
| Sneak Peek at Monette's ALL-NEW 2006 Line of PRANA Instruments! |
| August 24th, 2005 00:00 |
 Here is a Sneak Peek at Monette's ALL-NEW 2006 Line of PRANA Instruments! We hope you enjoy the seven-minute video collage featuring some of the top artists play-testing Monette's new PRANA Instruments. Patrick appears in this video collage three times, so check it out!
|
| View Amazing Video at Monette's Website! |
| Maynard Ferguson's Big Bop Nouveau, London |
| August 5th, 2005 03:00 |
 By Mike Hobart
Published: August 5, 2005
03:00
Ferguson was never known for the subtleties of his trumpet technique, though he still strings together the occasional well-crafted phrase. His renown lies more in his spectacularly powerful high note playing, which is so full-on that it grabs audiences by the throat. Now in his late 70s, he restricts these trademark stratospheric blasts to a few warmly received bars on each number, though he did indulge in a bit of high-note jousting with the lead trumpeter Patrick Hession.
|
| View full Article |
| Dose of the real world Still powering ahead; JAZZ |
| August 2nd, 2005 00:00 |
 The Evening Standard (London, England)
August 2nd, 2005
Byline: JACK MASSARIK
Maynard Ferguson's Big Bop Nouveau
Ronnie Scott's Club, W1
Maynard finally revved the volume back up with a medley of his big-band hits. His soaring, whinnying flourishes were electrifying, but the sheer precision of the brass, with Patrick Hession on lead, was the trump card.
|
| View full Article |
| Hessions Sessions Guestbook Updated |
| July 23rd, 2005 00:00 |
 The Hessions Sessions Guestbook has been updated to a newer version. You can now post pictures with your entries and spamming will not be a problem anymore.
|
| Visit the Guestbook |
| Trumpet Guru Wows Kobalt Crowd |
| June 25th, 2005 00:00 |
June 25, 2005
A Review by Peter Landsdowne
Big Bop Nouveau is packed with impressive soloists, but the band's ensemble playing is something to hear as well. This attribute became evident on "The MF Hit Medley," a crowd-pleaser that elicited the first standing ovation of the evening. Hession was a standout throughout the medley, handling everything from "MacArthur Park" to a beautifully rendered version of "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" with aplomb and some impressive high-register work.
|
| View full Article |
| Haydn Student Trumpets Blog - Trumpet News and Tips: Pro Trumpet ... |
| June 7th, 2005 00:00 |
 June 07, 2005
Maynard Ferguson and his Big Bop Nouveau Band
I saw Maynard Ferguson and his band perform recently. It is great to see that he is still out there giving it his best. He is obviously moving on in years and not playing a whole lot while on stage. His lead trumpet player, Patrick Hession, more than fills in however. Maynard and the band tour extensively, often conducting master classes at schools in the afternoon before giving their evening concerts. Check out their schedule to see if they are coming to your area.
|
| View Haydn Student Trumpets Blog! |
| Crowd pleaser |
| May 7th, 2005 00:00 |
 Crowd pleaser
Audience loves trumpeter Ferguson's all-out assault on senses
Saturday, May 07, 2005
BY ZAN STEWART
Star-Ledger Staff
Master blaster trumpeter Maynard Ferguson's still got it.
Celebrating his 77th birthday with a concert with his nine-piece Big Bop Nouveau band Wednesday at John P. Stevens High School in Edison, Ferguson took the stage on the opening blues and laid out one of his legendary about-as-high-as-you-can-go trumpet tones. He then kept on laying them out for the entire show.
Ferguson has to be championed for his ability at the twilight of his career he led his first American band in Long Branch, he told the packed house of about 1,000, in the mid-'50s to play these incredibly demanding notes. Few at any age can do it, though Ferguson's lead trumpeter, Patrick Hession, sure could.
|
| View full Article |
| Maynard Ferguson at Beethoven Hall |
| April 8th, 2005 00:00 |
 Maynard's trademark was his ability to play very high notes. Now he has a young stud, Patrick Hession, who plays his parts on a medley of classic tunes that made Maynard famous, like Gonna Fly Now (theme from Rocky), MacArthur Park and others.
|
| View full Article |
| Hessions Sessions Photo Gallery Updated |
| March 14th, 2005 00:00 |
The Hessions Sessions Photo Gallery has now been updated! In Celebration of Black History Month, Patrick played in Port Huron and Sarnia, Canada with the International Symphony Orchestra. Patrick is back on the road with Maynard Ferguson and Big Bop Nouveau until May 15th. We hope to see you there!
|
| Visit the Photo Gallery |
| "A-List": A Review by Kelly Beaman |
| February 22nd, 2005 00:00 |
 "A-List": A Review
Kelly Beaman
Published: 2/22/2005
"A-List" JFP-CD01 Personnel: Reggie Watkins, trombone and compositions; Eugene Stovall, vocals; David Throckmorton, drums; James Johnson III, drums; Nathen Peck, electric and acoustic bass; Howard Alexander, piano and synthesizer; Eric Defade, tenor saxophone and flute; Rick Matt, soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones; Patrick Hession, lead trumpet; Ken Robinson, trumpet; Ian Gordon, trumpet; Jamie Moore, trumpet; Craig "Izzy" Arlet, guitar; Alex Peck, tambourine; Scott McIntosh, alto saxophone; Carmello Torres, percussion. Selections: "Three Girls On Two Chairs," "Weight For Six," "You Don't Know What Love Is," "Molero," "Sittin' Here In My Room," "Whisper Not," "December Twentieth," "Two Colors," "Ask Me Know," "Star Jive."
|
| View full Article |
| Past Newsletters of the Glenn Miller Orchestra |
| February 1st, 2005 00:00 |
 Brought to you by Glenn Miller Productions, Inc., the owner and operator of The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra
Big Band Newsletter #057
This past Tuesday night I went to hear the very gifted Maynard Ferguson. Still going strong at age 76, Maynard and his band performed a 90 minute set that was just incredible. The band is composed of many young, talent players including lead trumpeter Patrick Hession, who also played lead trumpet with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, 1996 - 1998, and musical director/trombonist Reggie Watkins. Maynard and his Big Bop Nouveau band are loud, but the playing and arrangements are great.
|
| View Past Newsletters |
| "Festive Masterpieces for Trumpet and Organ" is Now Available! |
| January 22nd, 2005 00:00 |
 Kenneth Robinson's debut classical CD, "Festive Masterpieces for Trumpet and Organ," is now available at KGRMUSIC.COM. Check out the clips on the Audio Page. This CD is dedicated to AJ Abdallah, who was tragically shot and killed in his recording studio in Ferndale, Michigan, January 2, 2005. AJ recorded, mixed and mastered this CD and it was the last finished product to come out of Studio 8. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. We will miss you AJ. You are one in a million! Patrick and Ken can be seen on tour with Maynard Ferguson and Big Bop Nouveau until February 21st. Patrick put a special Piccolo Trumpet part in the MF HIT MEDLEY 2005, so come check it out. Visit Tribute Website for AJ Abdallah
|
| "Festive Masterpieces for Trumpet and Organ" |
| Christmas is a very busy time of year |
| January 21st, 2005 00:00 |
 Christmas is a very busy time of year if you are a trumpet player and for Patrick there was no exception. First off, Patrick played a couple of gigs with the local Latin band, Salvaje. Then, Patrick and Ken Robinson, roommate and best friend, were off to Dearborn, Michigan to be guest performers with the Annapolis High School Band's Christmas Concerts. Patrick then spent the day with the students and then played for their basketball game that night. Patrick and Ken were off again to Port Huron, Michigan to play a Christmas concert with the International Symphony Orchestra. Immediately after the ISO Christmas Concert, Patrick and Ken were off to Royal Oak, Michigan to play for the Royal Oak Music Center's annual Christmas party with the Howling Diablos. Patrick and Ken also played with the now rising Latin stars, Grupo Fuego. They are now #6 on Latin Billboard and have asked Patrick and Ken to join the band, but Patrick's loyalty is still for Maynard Ferguson, a.k.a., "The Boss." Besides, Maynard told Patrick that he could not quit Big Bop Nouveau without his permission! Patrick then ended the Christmas season with a total of four Masses on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Another great New Year's Eve with the Incomparable Paul Anka and this year, Patrick was able to get Ken Robinson on the gig. Due to the recommendation of Daniel Falcone, Patrick has played New Year's Eve with Paul Anka on several occasions and it is always a blast for him to be able to do the gig. The gig was at the Potawatomi Casino in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Paul had a great spread in his Presidential Suite after the gig and the hang was a lot of fun. Thanks, Paul! Before flying back out to join Maynard Ferguson for the Winter tour, Patrick played three gigs with Spyder Turner at the Motor City Casino in Detroit, Michigan. Patrick will be back on the road with Maynard Ferguson & Big Nouveau starting January 10th.
|
| 'Tis the Season with PAS/CAL |
| November 26th, 2004 00:00 |
Here are two Christmas songs that Patrick and Dan Ladouceur, Patrick's web designer, recorded with Casimer Pascal in December 2002. Dan, who had not touched his trumpet since the last Christmas season, took Patrick to Casimer Pascal's basement one night and came up with all of the trumpet tracks for the following two Christmas songs. Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays from PAS/CAL, Dan and Patrick!
Jingle Bell Rock-a-Nova (2:08)
Blue Christmas (2:35)
Lead and solo tracks written and played by Patrick.
|
| Visit PAS/CAL's Website! |
| A Letter from Los Angeles |
| October 6th, 2004 00:00 |
 A Letter from Los Angeles
Published: October 10, 2004
By Jack Bowers
Quite naturally, the only thing that could reasonably compete with the Trumpet Summit would be Maynard himself with Big Bop Nouveau, and following the dinner break on they came, introducing the leader with "Blue Birdland" and launching immediately into a swinging rendition of Ellington's "It Don't Mean a Thing." Maynard's new BBN includes trumpeters Patrick Hession (lead), Ken Edwards and Keith Fiala, trombonist / music director Reggie Watkins, saxophonists Doug Stone and Julio Monterrey, drummer Stockton Helbing and the Korean husband-and-wife team of pianist Ji Young Lee and bassist Eun Chang Choi.
|
| View full Article |
| On the Road Again with Maynard! |
| September 30th, 2004 00:00 |
 09/30/2004 - Patrick is back on the road with Maynard Ferguson and Big Bop Nouveau until November 22nd. Patrick appears as a special guest on Kenneth Robinson's debut classical album, "Festive Masterpieces for Trumpet and Organ."
Visit website for fellow Trumpeter, Ken Robinson - KGRMUSIC.COM
|
| "Festive Masterpieces for Trumpet and Organ" |
| Maynard Has a New Horn! |
| September 6th, 2004 00:00 |
| Maynard scheduled a trip to Portland to pick up the new axe in early September. We asked Patrick Hession to come in a few days in advance of MF's arrival to help with the final play-testing and adjustment. Patrick and Dave work well together, and Patrick did a fantastic job with the tedious but strenuous job of play-testing mostly high notes for two solid days! |
| View full Article |
| "Highlights of the Life of Billy Hodges" (1928 - 2003) - Video Tribute |
| August 31st, 2004 00:00 |
 "Highlights of the Life of Billy Hodges," the incredible video tribute to my great friend, roommate and mentor is now available on my website. Click on the links below for streaming video. I've broken this 12-minute video tribute down into four smaller, more manageable segments. Click the link below to walk through the wonderful video tribute.
|
| View Amazing Video |
| Patrick's New Book is Now Available on the Products page |
| July 14th, 2004 00:00 |
 Patrick's new book, "Hessions Sessions - Guide to consistent, reliable and sometimes, Invincible Chops!," is selling like wildfire. Go to the Products page to get your hands on a copy.
A Review by Matt Keller
|
| Buy the Guide! |
| [TPIN] ITG Conference 2004 - Monette, Patrick, and Manny |
| June 28th, 2004 08:38 |
Reaban, Derek derek.reaban@honeywell.com
Mon, 28 Jun 2004 08:38:52 -0700
After an introduction by Dave Monette, Patrick Hession (lead trumpet with Maynard Ferguson) was the first to speak and play. What an absolute powerhouse! After his opening line on his new Monette Prana equipment (literally pushing the walls back), he said, "Any questions?" That got a great laugh!
|
| View full Article |
| Interstate Music's The Score interviews Maynard Ferguson |
| May 1st, 2004 00:00 |
 Interstate Music's - The Score
May-July 2004
Score: Are there any new players out there that impress you?
MF: The first two trumpet players that come to mind are Carl Fischer and Patrick Hession. They have both been with the band for quite a while and are both great.
|
| View full Article |
| Maynard Ferguson at The Grey Eagle Tavern and Music Hall, Asheville, North Carolina |
| April 8th, 2004 00:00 |
 Maynard Ferguson at The Grey Eagle Tavern and Music Hall
April 8, 2004 - Asheville, North Carolina
A review by Stephen Lovelady for the Maynard Ferguson High Life website
Patrick Hession was great in the lead chair and the entire trumpet section was tight. I'd like to hear them featured more as a section while the rest of the band lays back a bit. It was difficult to hear individual trumpet parts most of the time, as the lead was always very prominently mixed. Patrick has accomplished much since I last saw him in October 2002 and has matured into an extremely competent and dependable fixture on the band. He didn't miss a note and breathed more fire than I have ever seen.
|
| View full Article |
| Maynard Ferguson a hit at the Columbia |
| February 19th, 2004 00:00 |
 The Lion's Roar
Volume 75, Issue 20
Southeastern Louisiana University - Hammond, LA February 19, 2004
By Lora Sheppard
Staff Writer
Ferguson's supporting cast members included Patrick Hession, Carl Fischer and Kevin Meads on trumpet, Reggie Watkins on trombone, Juan Turros and Matt Blostein on saxophone, William Bonness on piano, Craig Butterfield on bass and Stockton Helbing on drums.
|
| View full Article |
| One More M.F.-ing Jazz Concert |
| February 17th, 2004 00:00 |
The Musings of Kev - Random Thoughts and Rants from an Everyday Saxophonist
This time the gig was at Plano Senior High (alma mater of 15th Street Jazz), which was thankfully close to CCCC, since lab band let out ten minutes before the concert started. Halfling, Demon Matt, Fizban and Dingus went up there ahead of me to save seats (and had their own little adventures, which were chronicled in Dingus's latest post). Unfortunately, we were a bit too close to the speakers up front, but I understand it was way louder during Plano's short opening set. (Our location did prove advantageous later when we all got to shake hands with lead trumpeter Patrick Hession during the obligatory trumpets-in-the-audience part of "Hey Jude.")
|
| View full Article |
| Patrick was in a horrific car crash Thursday night, February 5, 2004 |
| February 7th, 2004 07:10 |
Patrick's new method book is now available! Patrick, Maynard & Big Bop Nouveau are back on the road as of February 6, 2004. They are returning from a well deserved week off from a short, but awesome tour. The tour consisted of a fun filled week at Dimitriou's Jazz Alley, a wonderfully warm week in Thailand, two great dates in California and a very high energy night at the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. This is the fourth time that Patrick has performed with Maynard & Big Bop Nouveau in Las Vegas and it is the best band yet! Patrick, Maynard & Big Bop Nouveau are on the road until March 6th, so we hope to see all of you there! UPDATE: Due to the freezing rain, Patrick was in a horrific car crash Thursday night, February 5, 2004. Although Patrick was wearing his seatbelt, his head went through the driver's side window and completely shattered the window. All of Patrick's tests came back negative and he is doing well. Patrick was released Saturday afternoon and he has returned home. Patrick will be flying out to meet Maynard & Big Bop Nouveau in Austin, Texas on Monday, February 9, 2004. Walter Maynard Ferguson PHD has ordered Patrick to take it easy and to work slowly back into his book. Patrick would like to personally thank each and every one of you for your thoughts and prayers. Take care and God bless you all!
|
| 'Tis the Season with PAS/CAL |
| November 28th, 2003 00:00 |
Here are two Christmas songs that Patrick and Dan Ladouceur, Patrick's web designer, recorded with Casimer Pascal in December 2002. Dan, who had not touched his trumpet since the last Christmas season, took Patrick to Casimer Pascal's basement one night and came up with all of the trumpet tracks for the following two Christmas songs. Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays from PAS/CAL, Dan and Patrick!
Jingle Bell Rock-a-Nova (2:08)
Blue Christmas (2:35)
Lead and solo tracks written and played by Patrick.
|
| Visit PAS/CAL's Website! |
| Ferguson still soars |
| September 26th, 2003 00:00 |
Topeka Capital-Journal, The, Sep 26, 2003, by Bill Blankenship Capital-Journal
REVIEW
By Bill Blankenship
THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL
However, when it came time to finish the set with "The MF Hit Medley," which included "MacArthur Park," "Gonna Fly Now" from "Rocky" and "Hey Jude," Ferguson let the youngsters play, with Patrick Hession providing the stratospheric whistles Ferguson played on those recordings.
|
| View full Article |
| Ferguson still plays at full roar |
| June 25th, 2003 00:00 |
 By MIKE DREW
Special to the Journal Sentinel
Last Updated: June 25, 2003
The long set's only ballad, Dennis Diblasio's nice arrangement of Jimmy Van Heusen's "Darn That Dream" showcased the leader, mellow for a change, on fluegelhorn with some nice cross section blends. Then it was back to pyrotechnics in a long medley of Ferguson hits including "MacArthur Park," "Gonna Fly Now" from "Rocky," "Hey Jude" and more, with leather-lipped lead trumpet Patrick Hession taking the cadenzas Maynard played on the records.
|
| View full Article |
| Hodges, 'unsung hero' of noted orchestras, dies |
| June 6th, 2003 15:36 |
 June 06, 2003
By Ed Koch
LAS VEGAS SUN
Longtime Strip trumpeter played with Goodman
Over the years, Hodges worked with numerous headliners, including the Rat Pack -- Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr., -- and Merv Griffin, who hosted segments of his syndicated television show from Las Vegas in the 1970s. Hodges also was in the band for Muscular Dystrophy Association Labor Day Telethons.
In 1995, Hodges retired and pursued his hobbies that included photography, boating and making custom trumpet mouthpieces. He also tutored young, promising musicians, among them Patrick Hession, former UNLV band trumpeter, who currently is lead trumpet for the Maynard Ferguson Band.
|
| View full Article |
| A tribute to William C. "Billy" Hodges |
| June 1st, 2003 16:31 |
William C. "Billy" Hodges passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, after bravely battling cancer. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, August 4, 1928, Billy played trumpet professionally for over 50 years, even in high school, where he traveled with bands during summer vacation.
|
| View full Article |
| Maynard Ferguson: masterclass and concert at East Tennessee State University |
| April 18th, 2003 00:00 |
 On April 11, Maynard Ferguson visited East Tennessee State University (ETSU) to perform a master class and concert that evening as featured artist at the Tri-Cities Jazz Fest, under the direction of Dr. David Champouillon.
Mr. Ferguson will turn 75 in May and is still going strong. His clinic included working with the ETSU Jazz Ensemble and an attentive audience of over 100 trumpet lovers. He was introduced by the band playing his signature tune, Blue Birdland, a show of respect for his accomplishments which was well received judging by the radiant smile on Ferguson's face. Also presenting the master class were several members of Ferguson's band, including trumpeters Patrick Hession and Kevin Meads. The clinic focused on basic brass breathing fundamentals, daily practice skills, stylistic concerns and different uses of the piece.
|
| View full Article |
| JAZZ REVIEW - Maynard Ferguson lets loose a high-energy ensemble |
| January 31st, 2003 00:00 |
 January 31, 2003
By Don Heckman, Special to The Times
Surprisingly, but perhaps understandably, given the set's length, the super stratospheric notes in the closing "Rocky" and "MacArthur Park" were delivered not by Ferguson but by gifted lead trumpeter Patrick Hession.
|
| View full Article |
| 'Tis the Season with PAS/CAL |
| December 25th, 2002 00:00 |
Here are two Christmas songs that Patrick and Dan Ladouceur, Patrick's web designer, recorded with Casimer Pascal in this month of December 2002. Dan, who had not touched his trumpet since the last Christmas season, took Patrick to Casimer Pascal's basement one night and came up with all of the trumpet tracks for the following two Christmas songs. Season's Greetings and Happy Holidays from PAS/CAL, Dan and Patrick!
Jingle Bell Rock-a-Nova (2:08)
Blue Christmas (2:35)
Lead and solo tracks written and played by Patrick.
|
| Visit PAS/CAL's Website! |
| Featured Artist: Diane Schuur & Maynard Ferguson |
| December 11th, 2001 00:00 |
 CD Title: "Swingin' For Schuur"
Year: 2001
Record Label: Concord Records
Style: Jazz Vocals
Musicians: Diane Schuur, vocals. Maynard Ferguson, trumpet and flugelhorn. Various guest artists. Review: Congratulations to Concord Records for bringing together two giants of contemporary jazz, Diane Schuur and Maynard Ferguson, in the wonderfully eclectic big band sound of "SWINGIN' FOR SCHUUR." This CD collection of 12 songs is a surefire hit, one that will attract many, many jazz listeners.
Selections include "Just One Of Those Things," "Besame Mucho," "Deep Purple," "Autumn Leaves," "My Romance," "Love Letters," "East Of The Sun and West Of The Moon," "Midnight Sun," "I Fall In Love Too Easily," "Lush Life," "Just Friends," and "Let's Fall In Love." Each song is filled with brilliant solo work from all performers. Schuur and Ferguson are a perfect jazz match!
Accompanying Schuur and Ferguson are the following fine musicians: Patrick Hession, lead trumpet; Paul Armstrong, trumpet; Peter Ferguson, trumpet & tour manager; Reggie Watkins, trombone; Mike Dubaniewicz, alto saxophone; Jeff Rupert, tenor saxophone; Denis DiBlasio, baritone saxophone; the stylish piano work of Jeff Lashway; Brian Stahurski, bass; and Brian Wolfe, drums.
|
| View full Review |
Powered by Magic News Plus v1.0.3
© Reamday Enteprises, 2004 |
|
|
OUTSTANDING JAZZ RECORDING 
Patrick has just received his new MONETTE PRANA XLT trumpet. Check out his wonderful write-up in the Monette 2004 newsletter. Monette has graciously featured Patrick in it's annual newsletter alongside such trumpet greats as Wynton Marsalis, Calvin Price, Mark Isham and Charlie Schlueter. Click the links below to access the two articles as well as Monette's website.