Vintage Maynard "Three Horn" Clip Surfaces on YouTube.com February 10, 2008
YouTube.com has long been a rich source for seekers of rare Maynard video. However, a video has recently been posted on YouTube that is more impressive than most. It's a 1959 clip of Maynard performing the Ernie Wilkins composition "Great Guns". In this clip, Maynard solos first on baritone horn, then valve trombone, and finally on trumpet. The vigor and excitement that Maynard brings to this performance is something to behold.
Two live performances of "Great Guns" can be found on the "Live at Peacock Lane" albums.
Priceless MF Alumni Stories Appearing in the Maynard Ferguson Forum February 10, 2008
Former MF sax man Denis Diblasio recently began posting Maynard Ferguson stories in the MF Forum, and some others have joined in. They can be read in this alumni story thread.
Here's a recent story from Denis:
Not all the stories have a start, middle and an end. Some are just simple but special moments. There were a lot of those.
We arrived at a gig where Count Basie was playing the first set and Boss had the second. Basie, Man! Wow! That's the source. Any band that does any type of swing chart bows to Basie. There isn't a band around that doesn't hold Basie in a special place.
We show up backstage at the gig and Basie is already on the stage but the gig hits in about 25 minutes. I just happen to be standing next to Boss and he seems to be looking across the stage for something. His eyes light up like a little kid and he asks me "Wanna meet Basie?". Duh!! "Yeah," I said. So Boss walks backstage to get to the other side of the stage and I follow him like a puppy. We finally get next to Basie and he is in his golf cart talking to someone. I'm watching Boss watching Basie. Boss was like a little kid, it was really sweet. This is his idol and he was kind of nervous which made me allota nervous. So Basie finishes up with this guy and looks up and sees Boss's face and smiles. "How are you Bill?" says Boss. Basie slowly reaches out his hand and pats Boss's slightly protruding belly and says, "What's this Fox?'. Boss laughed and they hugged each other. Man, it was sweet. Then Boss says, "This is is Denny DiBlasio, my bari player". And Basie says, "You must be a great player to play with the Fox. I look forward to hearing you play". Run over my head with a truck!!!! Man, I could have gone home right there!!! I mean, Basie!! Wow! It doesn't get heavier than that. He didn't have to say that and I knew he wasn't going to stick around for our set, they had to leave. But for Basie to say anything to a young player.....Whew!
That was basically it. Just meeting Basie and digging Boss digging Basie and Basie digging Boss and me just digging all of it. Plus Basie was just so nice and gracious. The truly great guys are that way. Anyway, that was a moment I'll always remember. Nothing heavy but at the same time, very heavy.
-Denis DiBlasio
"The World of Maynard Ferguson" DVD Cover Art Revealed January 19, 2008
Sleepy Night Records has revealed the cover design for their upcoming "The World of Maynard Ferguson" DVD. Pictured below, the cover shows a dapper looking Maynard in the 1970s.
Will Hammond, Creator of "Tonality", Interviewed for Inside Digital Photo Radio January 19, 2008
Maynard fan Will Hammond, known around here for creating the "Tonality" print (pictured below) was recently interviewed for Inside Digital Photo Radio. Will discusses his Photoshop skills as well as the creation of the Tonality print. The interview provides an interesting insight into how the piece came together. You can listen to the entire interview here.
Toledo Jazz Orchestra and Patrick Hession to Perform "A Tribute to Maynard Ferguson" January 10, 2008
According to the Toledo Blade newspaper, the Toledo Jazz Orchestra will be performing a tribute concert in honor of Maynard and will be featuring former MF lead trumpet player, Patrick Hession. The concert will be held this Saturday, January 12th, at the Franciscan Theatre and Conference Center of Lourdes College. The full article (which includes ticket information) is available at the Toledo Blade web site.
New Maynard Ferguson DVD, "The World of Maynard Ferguson" Now Available for Pre-Order December 16, 2007
Sleepy Night Records, who brought us the wonderful "Lost Tapes Volume One" CD earlier this year, is now releasing "The World of Maynard Ferguson" on DVD. This DVD contains some amazing footage from the 1970s, as well as some candid (and uncensored!) interviews with Maynard's manager in the 1960s and 1970s, Ernie Garside. For a limited time, Sleepy Night Records will be selling this DVD as a pre-order at a special price for readers of this web site. Here is a message from Sleepy Night Records about this new project:
Pre-order now at the special price for the Maynard Ferguson web site. Offer will expire on January 11, 2008.
"The World of Maynard Ferguson" DVD will be released on January 31, 2008. This special was filmed on 16 millimeter film in 1970 and features Maynard's British Big Band and some guests from the music world of that time. This performance is like a time capsule at the end of the 1960s.
Special features include:
An exclusive interview with Ernie Garside, Maynard's Manager in the 60s and 70s.
"Memories of Maynard", never before seen rare footage shot by Gary Gillies over a 15 year period of various gigs and events.
This DVD is a special limited edition of ONLY 1500 world-wide and will play in DVD players in region 1 (USA/Japan) also Multi region players in UK and Europe).
$24.99 + $7.95 shipping to anywhere in the world.
Or save on shipping by ordering this DVD along with the CD "The Lost Tapes Vol 1"
Track from "The One And Only" CD Nominated for a Grammy December 6, 2007
Steve Wiest's arrangement of "Besame Mucho", which was featured on Maynard's final CD, "The One And Only Maynard Ferguson", was nominated for a Grammy today in the category of Best Instrumental Arrangement. Steve, who also contributed his considerable trombone skills to the CD, was a fan favorite on Maynard's band in the 80s. The Grammy Awards will be held on February 10, 2008, and the entire list of nominees can be seen at the official Grammy Award web site. MaynardFerguson.com congratulates Steve on his nomination!
Two Rare Maynard Roulette Recordings Available on One CD October 21, 2007
A European record label has just released a CD titled "Dancing Sessions", which combines the 1959-1960 Roulette releases "Plays Jazz for Dancing" and "Let's Face the Music and Dance". These albums have traditionally been favorites of Maynard fans, but difficult to find. This CD is currently only available as an import, and can be ordered from Amazon.com.
Amazon.com Now Offering Maynard Ferguson MP3s October 20, 2007
Amazon.com is now offering MP3s for download, including 83 (so far) Maynard Ferguson MP3s. These MP3s are priced at 99 cents or less and are DRM free (this means they can be put onto any MP3 device). This is a great way to get some of the lesser-known Maynard recordings such as A Message From Birdland.
Blogcritics Magazine Publishes Glowing Review of "The Essential Maynard Ferguson" October 20, 2007
Blogcritics Magazine recently published a very favorable review of the recently released Maynard compilation entitled "The Essential Maynard Ferguson". In his review, author Michael Jones says, "As wonderful and iconic as Armstrong, Miles, and Coltrane were as horn players, there is no denying the sound of Ferguson's horn as it glides and slides around a piece of music. It is all at once classy, classic, soulful, playful, respectful, and extremely deserving of respect." The entire article is available on the Blogcritics Magazine web site.
Sleepy Night Records Closes in on Lost Tapes Sales Goal September 23, 2007
Sleepy Night Records, publishers of the newly released "Maynard Ferguson: The Lost Tapes" CD, have announced that they are only 40 orders away from hitting their sales goal, thus ensuring the release of Volume 2. If you haven't ordered yet, DO SO. Following is a message from Sleepy Night Records:
"On behalf of Ernie and myself, a big thank you to everyone that ordered this CD, we are knocked out at the comments on the forum and to tell you we are 40 CDs away from our target and once reached we can look forward to Vol 2! We are a small record company not run by "suits or accounts" yes we need to make money to live on also we need to put some back into other projects but we would like to be known as a company that is fair and takes care always putting out the best quality CDs and DVDs... especially the MF series after all it is only what Maynard deserved. The response was amazing, we are both delighted that this CD has been appreciated.
New Albums Pay Tribute to Maynard September 23, 2007
Two trumpet players have recently released albums that are either dedicated to or pay tribute to Maynard Ferguson. Florida-based trumpeter Dan McMillion's album, "High Octane" is dedicated to Maynard's memory and features several Maynard charts such as "Get it to Go" and "Latino Lovewalk". A review from allaboutjazz.com states that "the title of the album could not be more apropos, for the music thunders throughout the entire session." It can be purchased at SeaBreezeJazz.com.
In another corner of the country (Washington state), Rich Wetzel's Groovin Higher Jazz Orchestra has just released "The Mayn Thing, A Tribute to Maynard Ferguson and more" featuring several Maynard tunes such as "Chameleon" and "Coconut Champagne". It can be purchased at CDBaby.com.
"Boy With Lots of Brass" Coming to CD September 6, 2007
Recorded in 1957, "Boy With Lots of Brass" is the latest classic Maynard Ferguson album to appear on CD. It's available for ordering now at Amazon.com, with a release date of September 25, 2007.
MaynardFerguson.com Now Offering RSS Feed September 3, 2007
MaynardFerguson.com is now offering an RSS feed. Subscribe to this feed to stay current on all things Maynard.
Sleepy Night Records Announces "Lost
Tapes" Winner September 3, 2007
Sleepy Night Records, publishers of the upcoming "Maynard
Ferguson: The Lost Tapes" CD, have announced that Kirsten
Byrd of Coatesville, Pennsylvania is the winner of a special
package of MF goodies, donated by Ernie Garside. If you haven't
ordered yet, I'd
encourage you to do so before the September 10th release
date.
Diane Schuur and Maynard Ferguson DVD
Now Available August 28, 2007
The Maynard Ferguson Online Store is now carrying the "Live
From Seattle - Diane Schuur with Maynard Ferguson and his
Big Bop Nouveau Band Live From the King Cat Theater"
DVD. Visit the Online
Store for details.
One Year Ago August 22, 2007
Tomorrow, August 23, marks the one year anniversary of Maynard's
death. Maynard may be gone but he is far from forgotten. Maynard's
long time friend and tour manager, Ed Sargent, posted a beautiful
note in the Maynard
Ferguson Forum today, expressing his feelings one year
after losing his best friend. An excerpt follows:
"It is still, even after 364 days, hard to believe
the person who touched so many lives is not with us. I often
sit and think about the many, many years together with overwhelming
joy. The experience with him and the multitude of band members
that came into my life is and always will be treasured beyond
compare. For this I am truly grateful and humbly blessed."
I read on an earlier thread about your most memorable
Maynard moment and I literally laughed out loud as to where
to begin. Maynard always loved to sit or stand by the window
and look out over the city, whatever city... read
the entire entry
In the days immediately following Maynard's passing, fans
from all over the world grieved together and posted
some of their favorite photos on the Maynard Ferguson
Forum. These photos were a testament to how gracious and generous
Maynard was with his own time, and a reminder that Maynard
was not just an amazing musician, but a beautiful human being
as well.
We still miss you, Boss.
Late Music Legend Maynard Ferguson's
Contributions Live On… August 22, 2007
The following is a statement from Contemporary Productions:
ST. LOUIS - August 22, 2007 -- One year ago tomorrow,
Thursday, August 23rd, the world lost one of the great legends,
Maynard Ferguson - a jazz trumpeter, bandleader and music
educator. Today, Ferguson's life long legendary status lives
on in many ways through more than 60+ albums, protégés
and alumni band members. Contemporary Productions and the
Maynard Ferguson Trust celebrate his life with his final CD,
The One and Only Maynard
Ferguson and a DVD
set that includes The Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert
(recorded September 20, 2006 in St. Louis with an orchestra
of 30+ alumni band members) as well as 60 minutes of bonus
footage from years past.
The One and Only Maynard Ferguson
Ferguson, affectionately known as "The Boss," worked
with hundreds of musicians worldwide throughout his more than
six decades in the business. For this CD, he enlisted the
musical and composition talents of notable and famous alumni
including Wayne Bergeron, Denis DiBlasio, Chip McNeill, and
Steve Wiest as well as many of his Big Bop Nouveau Band members.
These talented individuals are just a handful of featured
musicians on The One and Only Maynard Ferguson CD.
This recording contains nine tracks -- five are new takes
on old favorites including "The Days of Wine and Roses"
and "Besame Mucho," where fans will enjoy a dueling
trumpet duet between Ferguson and Wayne Bergeron. Other tunes
include three original compositions by Denis DiBlasio, and
an all new composition by pianist and Ferguson's son-in-law,
Christian Jacob titled "Lost Horizons" featuring
the flugelhorn played beautifully by Ferguson.
Ferguson passed away just three weeks after The One and
Only Maynard Ferguson was recorded. What was intended
to be just one of many albums recorded, this particular one
has evolved into Ferguson's legacy piece. The One and Only
Maynard Ferguson is sure to secure Ferguson's deserved
standing as a legend in the history of American Jazz.
The One and Only Maynard Ferguson has recently received
great reviews from JazzTimes
(September 2007) and 4-star accolades from DownBeat
Magazine (September 2007).
The Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert DVD
Ferguson touched the lives of musicians around the world in
a way that cannot be explained, but celebrated. Trumpet player,
friend and personal manager, Steve Schankman worked with the
Maynard's family and alumni musicians to develop a one of
a kind Tribute - a true labor of love and celebration of Maynard's
life as one of the greats in jazz history. Held September
20, 2006 at the University of Missouri-St. Louis' Blanche
M. Touhill Performing Arts Center, this Tribute Concert brought
together more than 30 alumni artists from Maynard's fifty
plus years of entertaining audiences around the world. In
a manner of words, the Tribute was the ultimate symphony dedicated
to a man they called "The Boss". His dedication
to education and his pure love of sound made Maynard the kind
of performer these musicians strive to be today. He is a beloved
hero, entertainer, bandleader, mentor and friend whose legend
will live on in every trumpet note.
In addition to the Tribute Concert, this DVD set also 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.
The One and Only Maynard Ferguson (retail price $20)
and The Maynard Ferguson Tribute DVD (retail $49.99) are both
available online at www.maynardferguson.com.
Maynard Ferguson Background
Walter Maynard Ferguson, born May 4, 1928, in Montreal, started
his career at age 13 when he performed as a featured soloist
with the Canadian Broadcasting Company Orchestra. He opened
for some of the great Big Band Leaders of the 1940s including
Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie and Harry James,
and then went on to play with Charlie Barnett, Jimmy Dorsey
and Stan Kenton. In 1945 at age 17, Ferguson became the leader
of his own Big Band. The 78 year-old musical phenomenon went
on to record more than 60 albums, receiving numerous honors
and awards including the GRAMMY® nomination for "Gonna
Fly Now" otherwise known as the theme from the movie
Rocky. In 2005, Ferguson was awarded Canada's highest civilian
honor, the "Order of Canada" from the Right Honorable
Governor General Adrienne Clarkson. Additionally, Ferguson
has been the recipient of DownBeat Magazine's prestigious
"DownBeat" award.
"The Boss" had performed for packed houses for
decades. In his final days, he and the Big Bop Nouveau Band
were touring the United States, recording what we now know
as The One and Only Maynard Ferguson and preparation
for a fall 2006 tour in Tokyo.
Maynard Ferguson was passionate about his music, his fans
and his family. An inspiration both onstage and off, Ferguson's
life was full of high notes. His dedication to his craft was
unparalleled and his vibrant presence on stage was legendary.
Maynard Ferguson will be greatly missed.
MEDIA NOTE: For media interested in interviews, Ferguson's
Personal Manager Steve Schankman and Tour Manager Ed Sargent
are available for phone interviews upon request. High Resolution
Images and promotional copies (limited availability) can be
requested as well. All media inquiries should go to Kelly
McMahon, 314.721.9090 ext. 335 (office) or via email at kmcmahon@contemporaryproductions.com.
Tennessee Radio Station to Play 24 Hours
of Maynard August 22, 2007
On Thursday, August 23, WCSK-FM 90.3, the voice of the Kingsport
(Tennessee) City Schools, will be hosting "A Maynard
Marathon."You can listen
online here.
"A Message From Birdland"
Now Available on CD August 22, 2007
A
Message from Birdland,
Maynard's classic live album recorded in June of 1959 (Maynard
was 31!) has just been reissued by Blue Note Records. This
amazing album is available at Amazon.com.
Alumni Update: Ray Brinker August 21, 2007
Ray Brinker played drums with Maynard. After Maynard passed,
Ray sold Maynard's Cadillac and recently sent Maynard's daughters
the following message. They sent the message to me, wanting
to share Ray's news.
"Hello Fergusons!
I'm proud to announce my creation and funding of the "Maynard
Ferguson Memorial Drumset Scholarship" at the University
of North Texas, where, as you know, Maynard often recruited
his drummers (fortunately for me!).
This seemed like the most fitting way for me to invest
my $500 profit from the MF Cadillac auction on eBay. This
$500 scholarship will financially assist a selected Jazz Studies
Drumset major at UNT. I'm hoping to continue to fund this
scholarship yearly. It allows me to both honor Maynard and
give back to the school that was a profound influence upon
my career.
Take care,
Ray Brinker"
Only a Couple of Days Left to Order
"The Lost Tapes" at a Discount! August 21, 2007
Maynard Ferguson Store 1 Year Anniversary
Sale August 12, 2007
This week marks the 1-year Anniversary of the Maynard Ferguson
Online Store. The web store has allowed us to experiment and
offer new and unique Maynard Ferguson merchandise over this
past year. In appreciation of your continued support, we are
offering big savings for a limited time in the MF Store. Some
of our apparel prices have been slashed by 40%, and some accessory
items are now BOGO (buy one, get one free). You can browse
the online store to find these sale items, or you can
visit our Sale Items section.
Down Beat Magazine
Gives "The One and Only Maynard Ferguson" a 4-Star
Review August 9, 2007
Probably no trumpeter played as high - for as long - as Maynard
Ferguson. His career as a leather-lipped, steel-lunged phenom
lasted more than 60 years. This album, a sort of valediction,
was recorded approximately a month before his death in August
2006. On this disc Ferguson plays with much of the same force
and clarity that had been his standard for decades. He could
always be counted on for the "money shot," and even
though it took on the cachet of shtick long ago, Ferguson's
audience came to expect it. He seemed happy to deliver.
The arrangements are punchy yet predictable. They set up
Ferguson's inevitable solo. When not forte, the charts are
often fortissimo. Ferguson always surrounded himself with
hot, younger players, with this lineup no exception. Trombonist
Steve Wiest plays sharp-as-a-knife on "Ain't No Sunshine
When She's Gone." Trumpeter Wayne Bergeron receives the
ultimate compliment in the stratospheric duet with Ferguson
on "Besame Mucho," on which it's hard to tell who
basks in the shadow of whom.
The few reflective moments, like the lovely ballad "Vitta
Bella," serve as brief oases of calm in the otherwise
turbulent maelstrom. Even on "Darn that Dream,"
though, Ferguson's lines inevitably arc upward to a high-note
climax. His vibrato, in the form of a shake of the last held
note, has the feeling of electrical current spewing forth
from a severed high power cable. Ferguson ends his solo on
"Lost Horizons" by glissing upward into the clouds.
He didn't go gently into that good night. He went kicking
and screaming. -Kirk Silsbee
Alumni Update: Lynn Nicholson August 9, 2007
Many fans of Maynard's work in the 1970s will remember Lynn
Nicholson, the young trumpet player with the huge sound. In
his typical generous style, Maynard would frequently feature
Lynn by letting him come down front and playing Maynard's
part. Lynn has been living in Las Vegas for many years, and
has recently started offering private trumpet lessons. He
can be reached at lnicholson@earthlink.net
for more information.
William Severin Thompson, a Maynard fan and self-described
"comeback player" (back on the horn after 20 years
of not playing) recently met with Lynn for a few sessions.
He had this to say:
"I've taken lessons with Lynn, and have seen some remarkable
improvements in my playing... including quadrupling my endurance
with one simple change that took one weekend to adjust to.
While Lynn has the chops of a screamer, he is aligned with
the spirit of Maynard Ferguson in many ways that you'll find
quite remarkable. Add to that the analytical mind of an engineer,
and you'll get a trumpet teacher that can take you to where
you've been searching in your quest to become the lead/screamer
player you've always wanted to be.
Lynn's methods can be considered contrarian to some, but
they are a result of Lynn figuring out a number of things
about the way Maynard accomplished his unbelievable range
and power. He can teach that to you.
Obviously, face to face lessons at Lynn's home in Las Vegas
are the ideal, and if possible, I urge you to pursue this
route. But, if that's not possible, Lynn and I, along with
a few of his other students have proven that lessons with
a web cam are also possible and effective. So for many, this
might be a very cost effective solution."
-William Severin Thompson
New CD of MF Rarities! July 26, 2007
This just in...a brand new CD of never-before-heard Maynard
recordings is being released by Sleepy Night Records in England.
The CD, titled "Maynard Ferguson, The Lost Tapes Volume
One", releases on September 10th, but Sleepy Night Records
is offering a discount to all www.maynardferguson.com readers
if they order
before August 24. Sound
clips are available here. Needless to say, I'll be picking
this one up. Below is the cover of this new CD, and below
that is the information I was sent.
Maynard Ferguson The Lost Tapes Vol. 1. Live recordings, new
versions, never before issued!
This series of recordings are from the private collection
of Maynard's long time Manager/Trumpeter/Friend, Ernie Garside
who was responsible back in 1967 in "kick starting"
Maynard's career, getting him a British band to front, a record
deal, tours, and much more!
These tapes were recorded by Ernie, some live at Ernie's Jazz
Club 43, some were demos and lay in an old trunk at Ernie's
house since the early 1970s. Most of them were on old reel
to reel tapes, some in good condition some not, with drop
out and tape degradation etc, but on listening to these great
tracks it was worth all the effort to clean them up as much
as possible without losing site of the music and get them
out on CD as they contain great performances! Not only that,
a 16-page booklet with never before seen photos!
This is the first volume and it's up to the fans out there
to make this a success for Ernie's benefit as he has given
so much over the years with Maynard. If this CD is successful
we have more amazing material for CD issues Vol 2 and 3.
Ernie has licensed them to "Sleepy Night Records"
to be released in the UK on September the 10th although we
have a special limited pre-order deal for the Maynard Ferguson
web site, $16+p&p. Also all pre-orders that we take will
go into a draw and one winner will receive a personal package
from Ernie's own private collection of MF memorabilia, original
programs, photos, publicity material and a bonus CD with a
track that will not be released in this series of CDs.
"These recordings are part of a historical musical document
and show just what a marvelous musician Maynard was and contain
fabulous trumpet playing throughout!
I have some great memories of my time with this amazing musician
and friend and I have written my memories down in the 16 page
CD booklet about the recordings of each track
On all these CDs you will hear Maynard as you remember him,
fantastic sound, amazing technique, and always swinging!"
Ernie Garside July 2007.
The One And Only Maynard Ferguson
Garners Praise from Critics July 26, 2007
Maynard's final recording, The One And Only Maynard Ferguson,
has been catching the notice of critics lately. Three
positive reviews have popped up in recent days:
Jazzreview.com
"...Maynard lives! He lives on through our memories
and his music, including this wonderful final recording,The
One and Only Maynard Ferguson...."
Allaboutjazz.com
"...trumpeter Maynard Ferguson led Big Bop Nouveau
and a handful of the group’s notable alumni into a
studio in Englewood, NJ, to record what is arguably his
finest album in years..."
Allaboutjazz.com
"...Longtime fans and those hearing him for the first
time will not be disappointed with The One and Only Maynard
Ferguson. It’s classic jazz for the modern day..."
"The Ballad Style of Maynard Ferguson"
Gets Domestic Release July 17, 2007
Today marks the domestic reissue of the legendary "Ballad
Styles of Maynard Ferguson" album. Wounded Bird Records,
who have reissued several Maynard albums in the past couple
of years, is responsible for this one as well. You can find
it at Amazon.com.
The Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert
DVD Pleases Fans June 21, 2007
Following is a selection of quotes from forum members:
"Being wide screen and so clear, you can really see
a lot of what's going on with everyone in the band, their
facial expressions and all. Some are happy and yelling "Nice
job on the solo", and others are more sad looks (and
rightfully so)."
"...the sound is superior. You can hear every instrument
really clear and the first shot of the video is a sweeping
pan of the crowd before the show started and there I am right
in the 3rd row! How cool is that!"
"Watching the raw emotion of the night from all the
band members brought back a lot of that emotion for me."
"What a gem the DVD project turned out to be, it was
definitely worth the wait, bravo. It was amazing to see all
that talent together for one performance. Where do you begin
with the accolades, as so many of you have already said Wayne
Bergeron is Mr. Money, hits everything is sight with perfect
pitch and a big sound. I loved Eric's rendition of Give It
One and I also thought Roger was really outstanding with Watermelon
Man. Walter and Carl were great on jazz trumpet as well. The
bonus footage was definitely a trip down memory lane."
"The audio production is great. Live sound engineers
can learn a few lessons from this product. This was not a
studio production, but the quality sounds like one. Great,
great sound."
"The overall product production is great. When I received
"The One and Only" CD, I knew that the Tribute DVD
would be of the same high quality. Right down to the liner
notes and the layout of the insert, everything is top notch.
And the photos, the historical chronology, etc."
"Stan Mark's tribute was fantastic. He'd been playing
that tune with his bands before his retirement and it became
his theme song. I'm glad he got to do it there. I know it
meant a lot to him and he sounded great."
"Aside from being musically excellent, I was constantly
aware of how much emotion the musicians might have been feeling,
given the recent loss of their friend and mentor. It was great
seeing the guys support each other throughout the concert."
"I thoroughly enjoyed the concert and the bonus material.
For me, this DVD set is a tremendous tribute and will be a
nice thing to have when I wax nostalgic about my MF memories."
New Maynard and Chase Tributes On The
Way June 9, 2007
Three new Maynard Ferguson tributes and a Chase tribute have
been announced. Visit the Concerts
page for details.
Maynard Ferguson Tribute DVD Available
for Pre-Order June 8, 2007
The Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert DVD releases on June
12th, but you can order your copy now! Visit the Maynard
Ferguson Store for more information.
New Maynard Ferguson Towels Now Available June 8, 2007
The Maynard Ferguson Store is now offering a Maynard Ferguson
logo towel, perfect for your instrument case, golf bag, tackle
box or anywhere at home. This towel is white, measures 15"
x 18"and has the MF logo printed on one corner. Visit
the Maynard Ferguson Store
for details.
New Double-CD Maynard Compilation: "The
Essential Maynard Ferguson" May 26, 2007
Sony has just released a 2 CD set (30 Tracks!) titled "The
Essential Maynard Ferguson" that truly spans Maynard's
career from his early straight-ahead big band work through
his more commercial pop-flavored 70s work and ending with
some of his recordings with Big Bop Nouveau. Details are at
Amazon.com.
"The One and Only Maynard Ferguson" is now on iTunes. May 25, 2007
Today, which would have been Maynard's 79th birthday, is
finally here. The official release date of Maynard's final
studio recording, The One And Only Maynard Ferguson has
arrived. Order yours now.
Photo Used on Cover of New CD Available
for Purchase May 4, 2007
As noted in the liner notes of "The One And Only
Maynard Ferguson," John Barclay is the photographer
of the photograph used for the cover of the album. Now, John
is offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of history.
John is offering two very special limited edition photographs
which can be seen on his site www.barclayphoto.com.
The edition will be limited to 500 of each image. A portion
of the proceeds will be donated to the "Maynard Ferguson
Scholarship Fund."
Music Legend Maynard Ferguson’s
Final CD to Debut this Friday, May 4th May 2, 2007
[Webmaster's Note: we are now taking pre-orders
for this CD on our music merchandise
page]
Contemporary Productions is pleased to announce the release
of The One and Only Maynard Ferguson Legacy CD. Recorded
at Bennett Studios in Englewood, NJ, following a sold out
engagement in New York City at the famed Blue Note Jazz Club,
this CD includes Ferguson's last recordings along with marquis
alumni from decades of jazz music they shared together. The
One and Only Maynard Ferguson will go on sale this Friday,
May 4th and will be sold exclusively through the Maynard Ferguson
website www.maynardferguson.com.
Retail cost is $20.
Ferguson, affectionately known as "The Boss,"worked
with hundreds of musicians worldwide throughout his more than
six decades in the business. He often enlisted the musical
and composition talents of notable and famous alumni including
Wayne Bergeron, Denis DiBlasio, Chip McNeill, and Steve Wiest
as well as many of his Big Bop Nouveau Band members.
These talented individuals are just a handful of featured
musicians on The One and Only Maynard Ferguson CD.
This recording contains nine tracks -- five are new takes
on old favorites including "The Days of Wine and Roses"
and "Besame Mucho," where fans will enjoy a dueling
trumpet duet between Ferguson and Wayne Bergeron. Other tunes
include three original compositions by Denis DiBlasio, and
an all new composition by pianist and Ferguson's son-in-law,
Christian Jacob titled "Lost Horizons" featuring
the beautiful flugelhorn played by Ferguson.
"The One and Only Maynard Ferguson is quintessential
of 'The Boss' and a very seductive collection full of original
pieces plus Ferguson's unique take on familiar tunes,"
said Dr. Herb Wong, an internationally respected jazz journalist,
historian, critic and concert producer. "The arrangements
by Denis DiBlasio and Chip McNeill are incredible and certainly
reflect that unmistakable Maynard Ferguson flair. Memories
of bygone performances stand out in this legacy CD, I could
hear how excited he was…Ferguson’s performance was
tumultuous."
Ferguson passed away just three weeks after The One and
Only Maynard Ferguson was recorded, at the age 78. What
was intended to be just one of many albums recorded, this
particular one has evolved into Ferguson's legacy piece. The
One and Only Maynard Ferguson is sure to secure Ferguson's
deserved standing as a legend in the history of American Jazz.
Maynard Ferguson Background:
Walter Maynard Ferguson, born May 4, 1928, in Montreal, started
his career at age 13 when he performed as a featured soloist
with the Canadian Broadcasting Company Orchestra. He opened
for some of the great Big Band Leaders of the 1940s including
Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie and Harry James,
and then went on to play with Charlie Barnett, Jimmy Dorsey
and Stan Kenton. In 1945 at age 17, Ferguson became the leader
of his own Big Band. The 78 year old musical phenomenon went
on to record more than 60 albums, receiving numerous honors
and awards including the GRAMMY® nomination for "Gonna
Fly Now" otherwise known as the theme from the movie
Rocky. In 2005, Ferguson was awarded Canada’s highest
civilian honor, the "Order of Canada" from the Right
Honorable Governor General Adrienne Clarkson. Additionally,
Ferguson has been the recipient of DownBeat Magazine’s
prestigious "DownBeat"award.
"The Boss" had performed for packed houses for
decades. In his final days, he and the Big Bop Nouveau Band
were touring the United States, recording what we now know
as The One and Only Maynard Ferguson and preparation
for a fall 2006 tour in Tokyo.
Maynard Ferguson was passionate about his music, his fans
and his family. An inspiration both onstage and off, Ferguson's
life was full of high notes. His dedication to his craft was
unparalleled and his vibrant presence on stage was legendary.
Maynard Ferguson will be greatly missed.
Maynard Ferguson: 5/4/1928 – 8/23/2006
###
MEDIA NOTE: For media interested in interviews, Ferguson's
Personal Manager Steve Schankman and Tour Manager Ed Sargent
are available for phone interviews upon request. High Resolution
Images and promotional copies (limited availability) can be
requested as well. All media inquiries should go to Kelly
McMahon, 314.721.9090 ext. 335 or via email at kmcmahon@contemporaryproductions.com.
Only 35 "Tonality" Copies
Remaining! May 2, 2007
Will Hammond's amazing print, "Tonality," has been
selling well, and only 35 remain! A percentage of the proceeds
goes towards the Maynard Ferguson Institute for Jazz Studies.
The long awaited release of The One and Only Maynard Ferguson
is finally here!!! The CD will be available for sale May
4, 2007, the date that would have been the great trumpeter's
79th birthday.
The CD will cost $20 (plus shipping and handling) and will
be available exclusively through the merchandise section of
this website. The tracks from The One and Only Maynard
Ferguson will also be available soon from major digital
distributors like ITunes
Track Listing:
Without A Song - Arranged by Chip McNeill
Besame Mucho - Arranged By Steve Wiest
Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone - Arranged
by Steve Wiest
Vita Bella - Composed and Arranged by
Denis DiBlasio
Dr. Fox Ph.D .- Composed and Arranged
by Denis DiBlasio
Lost Horizons - Composed and Arranged
by Christian Jacob
Surviving Soho - Composed and Arranged
by Denis DiBlasio
The Days of Wine and Roses - Arranged
by Denis DiBlasio
The Double DVD Tribute Package, including 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, will be available
for sale exclusively through the Maynard Ferguson Online Store
on Friday, May 25, 2007. Pre-ordering will begin on
Tuesday May 22, 2007. The price for this piece of music
history is $49.99 (plus shipping and handling).
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.
On behalf of all the people involved in producing this project,
we hope you enjoy this tribute to a great trumpeter and legend,
THE ONE AND ONLY, Maynard Ferguson.
New Maynard Ferguson Tee Shirt Now Available April 18, 2007
A new Maynard Tee Shirt is now available in the clothing
section of our Merchandise pages. It's army green and
features a large black MF logo and the words "Maynard
Ferguson".
Alumni Update: Stockton Helbing (Drums)
April 10, 2007
Maynard's last drummer (and musical director...and producer
of MF's upcoming final studio album) was fan favorite Stockton
Helbing. Today Stockton is releasing his second solo CD, titled
For Nothing Is Secret. This album is of interest to
Maynard fans not only for Stockton's playing, but also for
some of his sidemen that we know: Chip McNeill - saxophones;
Steve Wiest - trombone; Brian Mulholland - Bass; Ken Edwards
- Trumpet. This album is being released on the Armored Records
label, which says of this album: "For Nothing Is Secret
demonstrates Helbing's merging of melodies with lots of hook,
a la pop/rock, while interspersing improvizational opportunities."
This album is available on Stockton's
web site, or on iTunes.
I've been listening to this album for the past several days
and it's a high energy, fun CD.
Footage from the Utah MF Tribute Now
Online April 10, 2007
Eric Schulzke at Musiqbase has alerted me to several very
high-quality videos of the Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert
at BYU on their web site. You can see them on the Musiqbase
web site. The videos include heavy hitters such as Roger
Ingram, Bobby Shew, Eric Miyashiro, Denis Diblasio, and more.
Great stuff for those of you (like me) that couldn't be there.
Eric says, "Keep in mind that this was a rough, two-camera
shoot with one of them on a faulty tripod, so it's not going
to be perfect. But it does convey the fun and camaraderie
of the concert very well, I think, giving you a sense of having
been there."
MF Newsletters On Sale March 30, 2007
While supplies last, you can save $5 when you order issues
37-42 of the Maynard Ferguson Fan Club Newsletter as a six-pack.
More details can be found on our Maynard
Ferguson Accessories page.
Maynard's Daughter Still Collecting
Stories March 30, 2007
Back in December, Maynard's daughter Wilder asked fans to
send her stories of how Maynard and his music touched their
lives. She has received some wonderful stories and now wishes
that she had asked for photos to go with them. If you already
gave your story but could also provide a photo, get
in touch with Wilder. If you haven't told your story,
but have a good one (even if you don't have a photo), please
do so.
Alumni Update: Rick Petrone (Bass) March 23, 2007
Rick Petrone was a fan favorite in Maynard's band (he was
on the Live at Jimmy's album, after all), and he's still very
active musically. He's on a brand
new CD by the late Steve Marcus (tenor and soprano), who
was once with Buddy Rich. The album also features Bill Bickford
on guitar, and former Sonny Rollins drummer Joe Corsello.
Look for Rick on another CD in June with Carmen Leggio (former
sax player with Krupa and Goodman) called "Out in the
Field".
Alumni-Studded MF Tribute At Edinboro
University of Pennsylvania in May 2007 March 11, 2007
A two-day musical event dedicated to the life and music of
Maynard Ferguson will occur on May 2 and 3 in the Louis C.
Cole Memorial Auditorium on the campus of Edinboro University
of Pennsylvania. Musicians schedule to appear include Roger
Ingram, Serafin Aguilar, Walter White, Joey Pero, Michael
Manthey, Tom Garling, Reggie Watkins, Randy Purcell, Mike
Dubaniewicz, Julio Montarrey, Chip McNeill, Jeff Lashway,
David Throckmorton, Mike Freeland, Ed Sargent, and MORE!!
Details can
be found at the event's web site.
MF Horn 3, 4, & 5 Now Available
Domestically! March 1, 2007
Wounded Bird Records has reissued two highly sought-after
albums on CD: MF
Horn 3 and MF
Horn 4&5 (Live at Jimmy's). This is the first time
that these albums have been available on CD in the United
States. Both are available from amazon.com. Oracles
Music Network wrote a nice review of the MF Horn 4&5
reissue.
Update on Ebay Auction of Maynard's
Car March 11, 2007
The Ebay
auction of Maynard's car was ended early because the seller's
account was hacked. However, it has been relisted as a 7 day
auction.
JazzPlayerRadio.com Needs Our Help!
March 11, 2007
If you enjoy www.jazzplayerradio.com
as much as I do, please sign
this online petition to stop the increase of royalty rates
that will severely impact small stations like Jazz Player
Radio.
Maynard's Car is on Ebay March 1, 2007
Maynard's Cadillac is currently up for bid on Ebay. It's a
white 1994 Cadillac Sedan DeVille. His family has written
a nice description and included several pictures on
the Ebay listing.
Former MF Pianist Jiyoung Lee Releases
Debut CD March 1, 2007
Fan favorite pianist Jiyoung
Lee toured with Maynard in 2005 and 2006, generating lots
of positive emails to this website as well as buzz on the
MF Forum. Jiyoung has just released her first CD, titled "Confession".
All 10 compositions on the album are originals. You can find
the album at CDBaby.com.
Trumpeter Dan McMillion to Perform Maynard
Tribute on March 4 March 1, 2007
The Dan McMillion Jazz Orchestra will be performing a tribute
to Maynard on Sunday, March 4 in Marco Island, Florida. Proceeds
from the concert will benefit the Marco Island Branch of the
Collier County Library's Rose Hall Building Fund. Details
of the event can be seen at the Marco
Island Sun Times.
Final Edition of the Maynard Ferguson
Fan Club Newsletter Now Available February 24, 2007
The Maynard Ferguson Fan Club has put together Volume 42,
the final edition of the Maynard Ferguson Fan Club Newsletter.
The final edition is an 11 page commemorative look at the
wonderful life and career of Maynard Ferguson. It features
4 pages of color photos, as well as thoughts from former band
members and (of course) extended thoughts from former tour
manager and trusted friend Ed Sargent. Throughout the newsletter
is a timeline of some of the more noteworthy events of Maynard's
life and career. For those of you who have let your subscriptions
lapse, this edition and the four previous editions are now
available for sale in the Maynard
Ferguson Accessories portion of this website.
All Long-Sleeved Maynard Apparel On
Sale! February 24, 2007
For a limited time, all long-sleeved Maynard Ferguson apparel
in the Merchandise section
is 20% off. Fight the cold with some Maynard sweatshirts,
mock turtlenecks, and Oxfords! Also available for a limited
time, Maynard
Ferguson Sweatshirt 2-packs, which allow you to save big
on sweatshirt purchases.
Maynard Ferguson Tribute Planned For
Blues Alley February 17, 2007
Trumpeter Vaughn Nark,
the Alan Baylock
Orchestra, and some special guests will perform a tribute
for Maynard Ferguson at Blues
Alley on April 3rd. Guests are still being finalized.
The trumpet section for this event will be Brian MacDonald,
Nick Cooper, Rich Sigler, and Tim Leahey. Other trumpeters
will be there for features. Brian McDonald, Joe Mosello, Don
Junker are also confirmed as guest artists. More news will
be posted as I receive it...
Custom Maynard Ferguson Tribute Print
Sales Benefit Maynard Ferguson Institute for Jazz Studies
February 13, 2007
Maynard Ferguson fan and imaging wizard Will Hammond is offering
prints of his original Maynard Ferguson tribute image for
sale with ALL proceeds benefiting the Maynard Ferguson
Institute for Jazz Studies.
This album features 10 tracks from Maynard's excellent Concord
years (the late 1990s and early 2000s) including some of my
personal favorites, You Got It and Manteca.
More Details Emerge About Maynard's
Final Album January 24, 2007
Maynard's longtime friend and tour manager, Ed Sargent,
reports:
Greetings to all. I have the pleasure of sharing details
I assume you will find as exciting to hear as I find in giving.
The last recording by the Boss and company titled The One
and Only Maynard Ferguson CD is now in its final stages
as it has been mixed and mastered by Phil Bulla and replication
is around the corner. The answer to the Million dollar question
of when will this be available to you is- VERY SOON!!! Please
check the MF site for updates.
Here is the track listing:
Without a Song…. Arranger Chip McNeill
Besame Mucho …. Arranger, Steve Wiest
Aint No Sunshine When She's Gone… Arranger Steve
Wiest
Vita Bella… Composer, Denis DiBlasio
Dr Fox P.H.D…. Composer Denis DiBlasio
Lost Horizon… Composer Christian Jacob
Surviving Soho … Composer Denis DiBlasio
The Days of Wine and Roses… Arranger Denis DiBlasio
Darn That Dream… Arranger, Denis DiBlasio
I will have more details as we get closer to the release
date regarding the entire Tribute DVD project, including information
on bonus footage that is going to be included, but please
know and trust this project is progressing nicely. I have
spent many hours in the audio and video studio with Contemporary
Productions' producer Gus Whitelaw reviewing all camera positions
and potential footage. Although this task has been bittersweet
and emotionally draining, the evening's reverence and mutual
respect for our friend, mentor and most of all favorite trumpet
player is unmistakably apparent.
This is not a project that could or should be turned around
on a dime and for those who know Steve and his operation know
his commitment to producing the very best is paramount. We
recorded on Sept 20th and will have released in 8 months.
This project demanded this amount of time and I feel when
you watch and listen to it, you will know exactly why. As
we proceed to finalize the content I will be delighted to
provide more information.
ALSO………….BY THE WAY……..IT IS
REALLY GOOD!!!!!
Nevada Jazz Orchestra Playing Maynard
Tribute on 1/21 January 20, 2007
If you are in the Las Vegas area, you will want to check out
the Nevada Jazz Orchestra's "Remembering Maynard"
concert tomorrow (Sunday, January 21st). Details
can be found here, and you can read about the concert
in the Las
Vegas Review-Journal.
Wayne Bergeron's New CD (featuring MF)
Gets Good Review January 7, 2007
The Orlando Sentinel has just reviewed former MF trumpeter
Wayne Bergeron's second CD, and has nothing but good things
to say about it. The article specifically calls out the Wayne/MF
duet track as a highlight. Read
the full article here, and order
the CD here.
Even More Great CDs Available for Pre-Order January 3, 2007
The great music just keeps coming in the form of more Maynard
re-issues as well as new releases by MF friends and alumni.
The much beloved MF Horn albums are being released domestically
by Wounded Bird Records next month. MF Horn 2, 3, and the
infamous 4&5 (Live at Jimmy's) will be released on CD
on February 27.
Two "New" Maynard Compilations
Available for Pre-Order January 1, 2007
Maynard's passing has raised the public's awareness of Maynard's
music. We're starting to see the re-issues coming.
To my knowledge, neither of these releases contains anything
we haven't seen on CD before, but if you're a collector like
me, you'll want both.
"Caruso" Performed as a Tribute
to Maynard January 1, 2007
Werner Krausler is an Austrian trumpet player who is also
an MF fanatic. In fact, his
website boasts that he may have the largest MF CD collection
of anyone. He recently performed Caruso at a recent show as
a tribute to MF. I received the following email from him:
"...my tribute to the master of stratosphere I did
on 7th of December 2006 at Kunsthaus Weiz in Austria (Europe):
I announced, explained and played my favourite tune: Caruso
of the CD 'Brass Attitude' live for an ethusiastic audience
here in Styria with my great pianist Peter Winkler as a tribute
to my boss Maynard Ferguson!"
Werner included an mp3 of the performance as well as a
photo. I found it to be a touching tribute. MF's rendition
of "Caruso" can be found on the Brass
Attitude album.
New "Tribute Concert" Tees
Available January 1, 2007
Happy New Year, Maynard fans! We have a few "generic"
Tribute Concert tee-shirts available
in the MF Store. They say "Maynard Ferguson 1928-2006"
and they also say "Tribute Concert" on them. Available
in S, L, XL and 2XL in limited quantities.
Maynard Plus The Holidays December 22, 2006
Happy holidays, everyone! To tide us over until the CD and
DVD we are expecting in early 2007, we can be thankful that
Maynard recorded a great Christmas Medley with Big Bop Nouveau
on the Concord
Jazz Christmas, Volume 2 album.
Rare Promotion Maynard Photos Now Available December 10, 2006
New to the Merchandise section of this web site: Promotional
photos from Maynard's home. Photos from the 1960s through
the late 1980s can now be found in the "Accessories"
portion of the Merchandise area.
Several New Maynard Collectibles Now
Available December 6, 2006
Maynard's family has always appreciated the fans around the
world that loved the music of Maynard Ferguson. They, in partnership
with Maynard Ferguson Music, have made available several vintage
Maynard Ferguson collectibles from Maynard's own home in Ojai,
California. Visit the merchandise
pages to see new buttons, hats, stickers from the 1970s,
and even cassette tapes still in the original shrink wrap!
Share Your Maynard Story With Maynard's
Daughter December 6, 2006
Did Maynard and his music have a positive effect on your life?
Maynard's daughter Wilder
would love to hear about it.
MF tribute in Lindsborg, Kansas at Bethany
College on December 5 November 27, 2006
The Bethany Jazz Ensemble will be performing a few Maynard
Ferguson tunes at their December 5th concert. Details
here.
More Details about the December 6th
Philly Tribute Emerge November 27, 2006
The list of alumni performing has grown to the following:
Roger Ingram, Walter White, Dennis Noday, Reggie Watkins,
Rick Matt,
Chris Jensen, and Phil Palombi.
For information on the John Hoey Orchestra please look at
www.hoeyorch.com. For
information on the tribute concert venue look at www.mediatheatre.org,
or call 610-891-0100.
Limited "Grab Bags" of MF
Merchandise now Available November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving! Now that we have officially entered the
Christmas shopping season, Maynard Ferguson Music and MaynardFerguson.com
have put together several limited "Grab
Bags" full of great Maynard Ferguson merchandise at discounted
prices. Some items have not been available before, including
bowling shirts just like the shirts that the MF alumni wore
at the Maynard Ferguson tribute concert in St. Louis in September.
Quantities are very limited on some of the packages.
Maynard Ferguson Tribute in Philly on
December 6 November 23, 2006
I recently received the following information about a Maynard
tribute concert on December 6th:
Philadelphia's official Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert
will take place on December 6th at the Media Theatre in Media,
PA. The concert will feature MF alumni Roger Ingram, Dennis
Noday, Walter White, with more to be added later.
The core band for this event will be the John Hoey Orchestra.
John Hoey is a long time friend of Maynard Ferguson and Ed
Sargent.
For information on the John Hoey Orchestra please look at
www.hoeyorch.com. For
information on the tribute concert venue look at www.mediatheatre.org,
or call 610-891-0100.
Maynard Tribute Planned at the College
of Lake County on Oct 29 October 22, 2006
The College of Lake County in Grayslake, Illinois, is holding
a Maynard Tribute on Sunday, October 29th. Featured alumni
include Tom Garling, Nick Drozdoff, and Mark Colby. Details
can be found on
their web site.
Large Maynard Tribute Planned for February
2007 at BYU in Provo, UT October 22, 2006
We're still several months out from this Maynard tribute,
but the line-up so far is impressive. Bobby Shew, Roger Ingram,
Eric Miyashiro, Peter Erskine, and more! Their web site is
forthcoming, but in the meantime, take
a look at their poster.
Maynard Memorialized in Down Beat Magazine October 21, 2006
The latest issue of Down Beat magazine contains a nice four-page
article chronicling Maynard's life and career. Stan Mark and
Wayne Bergeron are quoted, among others.
Clips of Lisa Ferguson's MF Film Surface October 16, 2006
It has been widely publicized on this site that Maynard's
daughter, Lisa, is making a documentary film about Maynard's
life. In recent days, two teasers have appeared on YouTube
with some very intimate footage of Maynard at home. Teaser
1 Teaser
2
TrombonesOnline.com to Feature Tom Garling October 16, 2006
According to this
article from allaboutjazz.com, TrombonesOnline.com has
begun featuring the work of former MF trombonist Tom Garling.
You can see him here on TrombonesOnline.
Maynard Tribute in Denver on Tuesday,
October 17 October 16, 2006
The Denver Post is reporting that John Akal's Ultraphonic
Jazz Orchestra will be performing a tribute to Maynard at
the Lone Tree. Details
at the Denver Post.
St. Louis Concert Programs Now Available
October 10, 2006
Programs from the Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert held in
St. Louis are now available in the Maynard
Ferguson Store.
Steve Wiest's MySpace Profile October 9, 2006
Former Maynard Ferguson trombonist and fan favorite Steve
Wiest now has a MySpace
profile to promote his new album.
Maynard Photo Sales Support the Maynard
Ferguson Music Scholarship October 8, 2006
Just a reminder that Barclay Photo is selling these
beautiful Maynard Ferguson photos at a reduced cost, and
a portion of each sale goes towards the Maynard Ferguson Music
Scholarship at the University of Missouri - St. Louis. Take
a look.
Maynard's daughter has a web site October 7, 2006
Maynard's youngest daughter, Wilder, is married to former
Big Bop Nouveau pianist Christian Jacob. Wilder's company,
Wilderjazz, has a website promotion some of Christian's music.
You can visit it at http://www.wilderjazz.com.
Nice review of the St. Louis Tribute
Concert October 7, 2006
Here is a wonderful review of the Maynard Ferguson Tribute
Concert on a blog called "The
Musings of Kev."
Commemorative MF Merchandise Available September 24, 2006
The tribute concert was an unbelievable experience. A truly
first-rate send off and celebration of Maynard's life and
legacy. It was also a trumpet player's dream. The entire concert
was professionally recorded for a future DVD release. As soon
as I hear details on a potential release date, I will spread
the word. Several fans have posted their thoughts on the concert
in the forum.
Additional Tribute Concert Details September 14, 2006
Several commemorative items will be available for purchase
at next week's tribute
concert. Cash and checks will be accepted, but the staff
will be unable to take credit card payments.
Additional Tribute Concert Details September 13, 2006
New additions to the line-up of the tribute
concert: Kris Jensen, saxophone player
Additional Tribute Concert Details September 12, 2006
Tickets to next week's Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert are
going fast...as of today there are less than 300 tickets remaining.
Order
Now!
Just added to the line-up of the tribute
concert: Phil Grey, a trombonist who recorded on the Carnival
and Hot
albums.
MF Horn 3, 4 & 5 Coming to CD! September 10, 2006 Dutton Vocalion,
the company behind this year's MF Horn 2/Ballad Styles of
Maynard Ferguson re-issue, have just announced that MF
Horn 3 and MF Horn 4 & 5 (Live at Jimmy's) are going
to be released on CD this month. Visit their website for details.
[press release]
Additional Tribute Concert Details September 9, 2006
Just added to the line-up of the tribute
concert: Italian Trumpeter Andrea
Tofanelli.
Additional Tribute Concert Details September 5, 2006
We have an exciting update concerning a special guest artist
that will be playing at the tribute show:
Diane Schuur has confirmed she will be attending and performing
with the band for the tribute show. She will perform a few
tunes from the "Swinging
for Schuur" album.
Maynard Ferguson Tribute Concert on
Sept. 20 August 31, 2006
Additional details have surfaced about the Maynard Ferguson
Tribute Concert on September 20th.
A message from Ed Sargent (Maynard Ferguson tour manager):
The Venue:
The lobby of the Touhill will open 2 hours before the event
is set to begin for everyone to gather and visit if they wish.
After the event, the lobby will remain open until midnight
to also accommodate the wishes of the fans. There will be
a cash bar available.
The Alumni:
We have assembled a Core Band with some additional guest
players and former Musical Directors to represent a variety
of different eras.
It is our plan to present a "Tribute in Music"
to our friend, Boss, Father, and Band Leader.
It will be impossible to include every alumni that comes
to the event musically but we would like to recognize them
all by way of an Alumni Pass. I request to have all alumni
attending the event contact me (Ed) via email. Please email
Ed at esargent@contemporaryproductions.com.
In this email please include the year/years you were in the
band and also if you expect to be bringing a spouse or significant
other.
This does not circumvent ticket purchase as the proceeds
go into the Maynard Ferguson Schlorship fund at the Univ.
of Missouri at St Louis.
HOTEL INFORMATION TO COME!!!
THE CORE BAND:
CONFIRMED TRUMPET PLAYERS:
PATRICK HESSION
SERAFIN AGULAR
WAYNE BERGERON
ROGER INGRAM
CONFIRMED SAX PLAYERS
MATT WALLACE
MIKE DUBANIEWICZ
CHIP MCNEILL
DENIS DIBLASIO
CONFIRMED TROMBONE PLAYERS
STEVE WIEST
TOM GARLING
REGGIE WATKINS
KEITH OSHIRO
JOE BARATI
CONFIRMED RHYTHM SECTION
STOCKTON HELBING- DRUMMER/MUSICAL DIRECTOR
BRIAN MULHOLLAND- BASS
JEFF LASHWAY- PIANO
CHRISTIAN JACOB - PIANO
ADDITIONAL CONFIRMED GUEST PLAYERS:
PETER OLSTADT
CARL FISCHER
ERIC MIYASHIRO
ERNIE HAMMES
STAN MARK
DANNY BARBER
St. Louis to Host Maynard Ferguson Tribute
Concert
TICKETS ON SALE TODAY at 10am to Honor the Jazz Legend at
a Special Performance on September 20th.
ST. LOUIS (August 29, 2006) - The Maynard
Ferguson Family, in association with Steve Schankman and Contemporary
Productions, will present a tribute to Maynard Ferguson on
Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at the Blanche M. Touhill Performing
Arts Center on the campus of University of Missouri - St.
Louis. The concert will be dedicated to the life and music
of legendary musician and band leader, known as "The
Boss," who passed away on Wednesday, August 23, 2006
at the age of 78. Artists performing at this special concert
will include the current Big Bop Nouveau Band and some of
the many lead trumpeters and soloists from Maynard Ferguson's
alumni. Those who have confirmed attendance include Wayne
Bergeron, Denis DiBlasio, Mike Dubaniewicz, Carl Fischer,
Chip McNeill, Peter Olstad, Reggie Watkins, Steve Wiest and
many more to come. To find out new additions to the show,
please continue to check www.maynardferguson.com for complete
updates.
WHEN: Wednesday, September 20th ONE NIGHT ONLY! 7:30
pm
WHERE: The Touhill Performing Arts Center
One University Boulevard (on the campus on University of Missouri-St.
Louis)
TICKETS: Tickets are priced at $50, $40,
and $25
All net proceeds to benefit The Maynard Ferguson Music
Scholarship at the University of Missouri - St. Louis
For more information or to purchase tickets:
Call the Touhill at 314.516.4949 or toll free at 866.516.4949
Tickets may be purchased at the Touhill Box Office, Monday-Friday
10:00am - 6:00pm. The Box Office is located at the Touhill
at One University Blvd.
MAYNARD FERGUSON BACKGROUND:
Maynard Ferguson, born May 4, 1928 in Montreal, started his
career at the age of 13 when he performed as a featured soloist
with the Canadian Broadcasting Company Orchestra. He played
with some of the great Big Band Leaders of the 1940's in
. 
, with a release date of September 25, 2007.
,
Maynard's classic live album recorded in June of 1959 (Maynard
was 31!) has just been reissued by Blue Note Records. This
amazing album is available at 
