Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies and Jazz Ensemble Director at Houghton University Russell Scarbrough is a composer, bandleader, trombonist, and educator. His works have been performed by symphonies, orchestras, big bands, jazz ensembles, and soloists alike on a multitude of stages, at schools and universities, Carnegie Hall, and the steps of the US Capital.
Russell and I get nostalgic and walk down memory lane in this episode. Tune in and reminisce with us about choosing our first instruments in school and making the trek home with our cumbersome choices. While swapping stories from the jazz band, we discuss the changing landscape of jazz education, and what Russell learned by playing along with borrowed records from the public library. Russell shares the trials and joys of writing for jazz musicians, who each have their own voice and we debate whether a composition is there to serve the needs of the musician or the soloist is there to serve the piece.
What is The Playful Musician?
The Playful Musician dives deep into a musician’s journey, techniques and influences. From the first instrument they played to how they prepare for big concerts or recordings to how they find joy in the long practice hours, this podcast reveals the beautiful, and peculiar, details of an artist’s journey.
Whether you’re an aspiring musician looking for inspiration, a seasoned pro trying to find new techniques, or just a fan of the musical process, you’re going to love this podcast.