[ a celebration of the artistry of ALL styles of Trumpet ]
J I M M A N L E Y
Jim Manley, is an explosive trumpet player based in St. Louis, Mo. Jim's music has traveled the world via his four critically acclaimed recordings: "Some Assembly Required", "Lip Trip", "Horns in the House and other criminals", and "Christmas Unwrapped". His forays into the musical stratosphere are exciting and unbelievable.
In the past few years Jim has branched out as a band leader, composer/arranger, as well as a clinician. As well, Jim maintains a busy playing schedule with nearly 4500 engagements in the last fifteen years.
Jim has headlined the Saguaro Jazz Festivval in Pheonix, Arizona and opened, with his group, for the legendary Maynard Ferguson in 1996. Jim has also been featured as a guest soloist with many schools across the U.S..
Jim is a Yamaha performing artist and plays the Yamaha 6310Z trumpet with a Bob Reeves mouthpiece.
1. Would you like to add your web address at this point?
In 7th grade the music teacher showed up with all the instruments - I chose the cornet.
4. At what age did you start?
I was 13.
5. On leaving your education, have you always been a full time musician?
For the most part - I had odd jobs for several years but started playing full time in 1983.
6. Describe your early experiences of semi / pro work.
I played in all the normal college bands but loved the jazz/stage band stuff the best. I still play in an 'R&B' band along with my nine piece swing/jazz band and trios or what ever it takes.
7. What Theatre experience have you had?
I played some shows in college.
8. What Orchestral / Big band experience have you had?
I've had very little orchestral experience - I do love to hear guys do that - but my main focus has always been one form of jazz or another.
9. What session (Jingles / TV) experience have you had?
I've done many sessions in St. Louis for local and national commercials/ jingles / other artists.
10. What film recording experience have you had?
I wrote and recorded music for several small independant films that haven't seen much light on the big screen.
11. What small group / ensemble experience have you had?
All kinds.
12. Other playing experiences?
All kinds.
13. Would you list some of your recording work for others.
I've recorded with a bunch of locally produced CD's as well as arranging horn parts for other artists orginals.
14. Would you list some of your past solo recording work
My CD's include...
Some assembly required (1991)
Liptrip (1994)
Horns in the house (1996)
Christmas unwrapped (1998)
Splendor in the brass (2002)