Some of my favorite trombonists are: JJ Johnson, Curtis Fuller, Slide Hampton, Steve Davis, and Steve Turre. Although, I like to take influence from a lot of non-trombonists like Chick Corea, Joe Lovano, Michael Brecker, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Miguel Zenon.
2) What are some of your ‘essential albums’?
JJ Johnson - "In Person"
Dexter Gordon - "A Day in Copenhagen"
Chick Corea - "Now He Sings, Now He Sobs"
John Coltrane - "A Love Supreme"
Herbie Hancock - "Speak Like A Child"
Miguel Zenon - "Alma Aldentro" + "Esta Plena"
Michael Brecker - "Pilgrimage"
3) Favorite bands?
Maria Schneider Orchestra, Chick Corea's Origins, Michael Brecker's Quindectet, Oscar Peterson Trio.
4) Who are some contemporary groups (or groups who are new to you) that you’re currently enjoying?
Miguel Zenon, Joshua Redman, Dafnis Prieto, Luis Perdomo, Mason Brothers Band (Brad and Elliot Mason), Booker Little (just started checking him out!)
5) How do you learn new music?
Learning new music has always been both exciting and challenging, and my process has pretty much taken a 180 since I started playing music! I used to try to memorize and learn tunes by memorizing off of the page, but at this point I've transitioned to a more aural approach. By listening and learning from the recordings, not only can you learn the tune, but you can develop your ears at the same time!
6) How do you write/create music?
As far as my writing process goes, it has changed a lot over the past couple of years. A few years back my process usually consisted of finding a musical moment that I really enjoyed, and trying to recreate it (sometimes by stealing something directly from the original!).
Then, it shifted to a more chordal or bass line/vamp, and try to build a tune around that. However, I found that I always had a hard time finding a good melody that fit over those vamps. Often I would compose this way at the piano away from the horn.
Which has led me to my current approach, focusing on the melody first, and then finding the right accompaniment. Now composing on a combination of my horn and singing the melody. So for me, it has been a constantly evolving process, I'm sure it will change again...
7) What YouTube or audio clip best represents your playing right now?
8) What do you like to do when you’re not playing music?
Writing music, organizing projects, reading business/marketing books, web design, The Office and the Buffalo Bills (don't judge!).
9) Any additional words of wisdom?
Practice Slow!
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Check in next week for a profile on bassist and composer Matthew Golombisky
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