tag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:/blogs/latest-news?p=2Latest News2020-04-09T13:15:00-06:00Al Muirheadfalsetag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/63860592020-06-30T11:30:00-06:002022-01-19T04:18:48-07:00Congrats to Turboprop<p>I wanted to thank everyone for their well-wishes and kind thoughts in regards to our JUNO-nomination for Undertones. Enjoyed the online awards show and so honoured to be a nominee surrounded by such amazing talent. Congratulations to Ernesto Cervini and his group Turboprop on the win. Well-deserved!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/62798312020-04-09T13:15:00-06:002021-11-29T08:06:13-07:00Jens Lindemann - A Hope For The Future Video<p>Had the honour to be included on Jens Lindemann's new video featuring Matt Catingub's new song 'A Hope For The Future'. The video features 32 international trumpet stars from 14 countries paying tribute to global health care workers.</p>
<p><a contents="Click for Link to Video" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eR_7P5_7kh4&feature=youtu.be&fbclid=IwAR0hxlP8u6Y1uts0ZVNyCS0_BIKF_t0CqvjPVrMh_ofqSdvldUyr8X8BzwA" target="_blank">Click Here for Link to Video</a></p>
<p>What can I say....</p>
<p><strong>Jens! </strong></p>
<p>What an incredible video, and for such a worthy cause. You amaze me with your talents and creative abilities. </p>
<p>I think you picked me to be on this project because: </p>
<ol> <li>I am really old and still playing</li> <li>you have known me since you were a kid </li> <li>I have a Bass Trumpet and you don't </li> <li>my "Arban's" method book is older and in worse shape than yours! </li>
</ol>
<p>However my friend, I am thrilled and honoured to be a part of this with Matt, Steve, Mike, and some of my favourite Canadian and American Trumpet players. Getting to hear some of the rest of the world's players was a real treat. Great tune, great arrangement Matt! </p>
<p>I think I'd better go practice now - stay safe! </p>
<p>Al</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/62798212020-03-16T13:15:00-06:002022-01-03T14:58:44-07:00JUNO Awards Postponed<p>Thanks to everyone for their well-wishes on the JUNO-nomination. Was looking forward to playing and saying hi to old friends at the JUNO's, but it is far more important that people stay healthy and safe right now. Look forward to hearing about the award at a later date. Such an honour to play with Reg, Kelly, Neil and Ted and be nominated in this category! Congrats to all the nominees and eventual winners!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/62029032020-02-04T06:24:23-07:002021-09-18T02:58:11-06:00JUNO Nomination - Undertones<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/154751/735d586976adb2f8389d13c52d7432bc118abd56/original/juno.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Just found out that my <strong>Canadian Quintet </strong>with Kelly Jefferson (sax), Reg Schwager (guitar), Neil Swainson (bass) and Ted Warren (drums) have been nominated for our recent album Undertones in the 'Group' category.</p>
<p>It's quite an honour to be nominated again for a<strong> JUNO</strong>. There are so many great musicians in our country, and to be honoured beside them, makes me realise that this can happen to any of us, at any time, at any age. </p>
<p>We live in, I believe, the greatest country in the world. Thank you Canada for all you are doing, and for all that you have done for our musical community. </p>
<p>A special thank you to Kodi and Stephanie Hutchinson from Chronograph Records, for all your hard work, dedication and love in all of my musical endeavors</p>
<p>https://junoawards.ca/2020-juno-award-nominees/.</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/62029042020-01-30T09:00:00-07:002022-04-15T05:19:54-06:00Student Painting<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/154751/9102993b57cc0e21c53a1704cd747f2eb3cb9929/original/rodedewaalpainting.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Thanks so much to Rode De Waal for her lovely painting of me. Such a pleasant surprise when I received this from this great young bassist and apparently painter!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/56156632019-01-28T10:00:00-07:002023-12-10T11:22:45-07:00Listening while you play!<p>Some of you may remember me talking about the word "air" and how the lack of it was responsible for so many of the problems we have playing the trumpet. There is another word that is just as important. " Listen". We need to really listen to ourselves. Are we blending with the other players in our section? How is our pitch? Are we a bit sharp? A bit flat? Are we giving the lead player the support he or she needs to make our section sound great? Are we so embroiled in the reading of that charts that we forget to listen? Sometimes when I hear some people play, they seem to have turned off their ears. They seem to be interested only in how they sound and how prominent they are in the band. We are a team when we play music together. We need to listen to each other carefully . Focusing on the time, the phrasing, the pitch, and the dynamics. Important word "Listen".</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/56156622019-01-10T15:30:00-07:002022-05-09T04:30:58-06:00Undertones hits #16 at JazzWeek.com<p>Really lovely to see how people are embracing the new album. Playing with Reg, Neil, Ted and Kelly was such a treat for me, Listening to those guys groove - how they support your ideas - and hinting at other things you might try in your soloing. World class musicians. It was such an honour to get to know and play with these guys.</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/55330422018-11-29T22:18:08-07:002022-05-27T08:10:20-06:00Undertones is chartbound at Jazzweek.com<p>Honoured to see that my new album 'Undertones' featuring my Canadian Quintet (Chronograph Records) is chartbound on the US JazzWeek National Charts. I'm quite happy with the new album - it's just a straight ahead jazz album that was such fun to record with these tremendous musicians from Toronto. Thanks to my musical friends and collaborators; Kelly Jefferson (sax), Neil Swainson (bass), Reg Schwager (guitar) and Ted Warren (drums) for their fantastic work!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/54350322018-09-19T10:40:38-06:002021-09-28T13:17:17-06:00'All About Jazz' Album Review - Undertones<p>For those of you just checking out what I am up to, my new album <strong>Undertones</strong> featuring my new Canadian Quintet and myself on the Bass Trumpet is set for release on September 28th on Chronograph Records! Check out the wonderful review from Dan McClenaghan giving the album 4 Stars out of 5.</p>
<p><strong><a contents="Undertones All About Jazz Review - click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.allaboutjazz.com/undertones-al-muirhead-chronograph-records-review-by-dan-mcclenaghan.php" target="_blank">Undertones All About Jazz Review - click here</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Al Muirhead's Canadian Quintet</strong></p>
<p>Al Muirhead - Bass Trumpet, Kelly Jefferson - Sax, Reg Schwager - Guitar, Neil Swainson - Bass, Ted Warren - Drums</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/54350362018-08-31T10:45:00-06:002020-04-11T14:47:12-06:00Undertones - Midwest Record Album Review<p>Midwest Record Album Review - Undertones </p>
<p>For those of you just checking out what I am up to, my new album <strong>Undertones </strong>featuring my new Canadian Quintet and myself on the Bass Trumpet is set for release on September 28th on Chronograph Records! Check out the wonderful review from the Midwest Record. </p>
<p><a contents="Undertones Midwest Record Review - click here " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://midwestrecord.com/MWR1415.html" target="_blank"><strong>Undertones Midwest Record Review - click here </strong></a></p>
<p><strong>Al Muirhead's Canadian Quintet </strong></p>
<p>Al Muirhead - Bass Trumpet, Kelly Jefferson - Sax, Reg Schwager - Guitar, Neil Swainson - Bass, Ted Warren - Drums</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/53784692018-08-07T17:36:50-06:002021-04-07T23:29:56-06:00Summer Tour Wrap Up<p>Thanks to everyone who came out to hear us play this summer. Had a wonderful time and recorded three of the festival shows in Vancouver, Edmonton and Niagara. Looking forward to hearing the resulting music.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>For all those who pre-ordered our new album 'Undertones' it is currently being manufactured and we expect it should be in your hands before the end of the month! Thanks so much for your support and patience.</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/53189992018-06-26T17:25:15-06:002020-04-11T14:46:40-06:00Live Recording tonight at Frankie's in Vancouver<p>Looking forward to playing tonight with my new Canadian Quintet Frankie's as part of the Vancouver International Jazz Festival. We'll be recording the show so come down and enjoy. Show starts at 8pm. Al Muirhead - Bass Trumpet, Kelly Jefferson - Tenor Sax, Reg Schwager - Guitar, Neil Swainson - Bass & Jesse Cahill - Drums.</p>
<p>Signed copies of our new @chronorecords release Undertones will be available for pre-order!</p>
<p>https://www.coastaljazz.ca/</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/53189442018-06-15T16:00:00-06:002020-04-11T14:47:22-06:00Al Muirhead's Canadian Quintet 2018 Summer Jazz Festival Tour<p>Al Muirhead is on tour with his new band for the 2018 Canadian Jazz Festivals! </p>
<p>Al will be performing at six Canadian Festivals this June and July with his Canadian Quintet presenting new music from their upcoming release 'Undertones' featuring him on the bass trumpet. The band is as follows: Al Muirhead (bass trumpet), Kelly Jefferson (tenor sax), Reg Schwager (guitar), Neil Swainson (bass), Ted Warren (drums). Check Al's 'Shows' section of the site for all the details.</p>
<p>June 16 - JazzFest regina - Regina, SK <br>June 26 - TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival - Vancouver, BC (Live Recording)<br>June 27 - TD Victoria International Jazz festival - Victoria, bC <br>June 29 - SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival - Saskatoon, SK <br>June 30 - TD Edmonton International Jazz Festival - Edmonton, AB (Live Recording)<br>July 2 - Montreal International Jazz Festival - Montreal, QC <br>July 29 - TD Niagara Jazz Festival - Niagara-on-the-lake, ON</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/48401502017-06-01T10:00:00-06:002020-07-16T11:26:19-06:004-Star Downbeat Magazine Review of Northern Adventures<p>May 2017 DownBeat Magazine Review:</p>
<p><em><strong>by BRIAN ZIMMERMAN</strong></em></p>
<p><strong><em>Northern Adventures - The Canada Sessions Vol. 1 (4 of 5 Stars)</em></strong></p>
<p><em>Al Muirhead is a bright light on the Canadian jazz scene, a JUNO-nominated trumpeter with 26 albums to his name and a roster of sideman gigs that includes stints with Dizzy Gillespie and Diana Krall. Long a supportive player, he released his debut album in North America in 2014—at age 80. Northern Adventures—The Canada Sessions Vol. 1 (Chronograph Records; 57:58) is his second album in two years, and it brings together fellow luminaries of Canadian jazz for an intimate program of jazz standards. Listeners will find themselves luxuriating in Muirhead’s deep, mellifluous tone, which at times conveys the warm, downy timbre of a trombone, especially in the lower register. That’s nowhere more evident than on “Love Me Or Leave Me,” on which the trumpeter unspools fluttering ribbons of bottom-heavy bop. Muirhead and vocalist Laila Biali entwine sweetly on the ballad “The Nearness Of You.” The song is an airy, stripped-down marvel, and its serene weightlessness nearly sets it afloat. </em></p>
<p><em>Ordering info: chronographrecords.com</em></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/47129292017-05-17T18:08:06-06:002020-04-11T14:47:58-06:00Al Muirhead Summer Jazz Festival Tour<p><strong>Al Muirhead is heading on tour for the 2017 Canadian Jazz Festivals!</strong></p>
<p>Al will be performing at six Canadian Festivals this June! The tour is very much in the spirit of his new album <strong>'Northern Adventures - The Canada Sessions Vol. 1'</strong> that recently garnered a <strong>4-Star review from DownBeat Magazine</strong>!. Al will be featuring a variety of ensembles across Canada drawing from many of the musicians who played on the new disc including jazz luminaries such as <strong>Guido Basso, Tommy Banks, PJ Perry & Laila Biali</strong>. The final show in Edmonton will be a special evening featuring his 2016 JUNO-nominated quintet! <span style="color:#2980b9;"><em>(click on the festival names below for more info)</em></span></p>
<p><strong>Friday JUNE 16 - <a contents="Lethbridge Jazz &amp; Blues Festival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.lethbridgejazz.com/?p=0&action=show&ID=987" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2980b9;">Lethbridge Jazz & Blues Festival</span></a></strong><br><em>with Laila Biali (vocals), Vern Dorge (sax), Chris Andrew (piano) & Kodi Hutchinson (bass)</em></p>
<p><strong>Saturday JUNE 17 - <a contents="JazzYYC Summer Festival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.jazzyyc.com/jazz-events/al-muirhead-canada-sessions-featuring-laila-biali-summer-jazz-fest-2017/" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2980b9;">JazzYYC Summer Festival</span></a><span style="color:#2980b9;"> </span></strong><br><em>with Laila Biali (vocals), Chris Andrew (piano) & Jason Valleau (bass)</em></p>
<p><strong>Sunday JUNE 18 - <a contents="Medicine Hat Jazz Festival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://medicinehatjazzfest.com/artists/al-muirhead-featuring-laila-biali.html" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2980b9;">Medicine Hat Jazz Festival</span></a></strong><br><em>with Laila Biali (vocals), Chris Andrew (piano) & Kodi Hutchinson (bass)</em></p>
<p><strong>Sunday JUNE 25 -<span style="color:#2980b9;"> </span><a contents="TD Ottawa Jazz Festival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://ottawajazzfestival.com/artists/al-muirhead-trio/" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2980b9;">TD Ottawa Jazz Festival</span></a></strong><br><em>with Guido Basso (flugelhorn), Brian Browne (piano) & Kodi Hutchinson (bass)</em></p>
<p><strong>Tuesday JUNE 27 - <a contents="TD Toronto Jazz Festival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://torontojazz.com/concert/al-muirhead-trio-special-guest-laila-biali" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2980b9;">TD Toronto Jazz Festival</span></a></strong><br><em>with Laila Biali (vocals), Reg Schwager (guitar) & Kodi Hutchinson (bass)</em></p>
<p><strong>Thursday JUNE 29 - <a contents="TD Edmonton International JazzFestival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.tixonthesquare.ca/performances/4178" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2980b9;">TD Edmonton International Jazz Festival</span></a></strong><br><em>with Tommy Banks (piano), PJ Perry (sax), Kodi Hutchinson (bass) & Tyler Hornby (drums)</em></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/46427642017-03-23T12:11:07-06:002018-08-07T17:29:17-06:00Review - All About Jazz (Northern Adventures)<p>Received a very nice review at <a contents="All About Jazz" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.allaboutjazz.com/northern-adventures-al-muirhead-chronograph-records-review-by-jack-bowers.php" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#27ae60;">All About Jazz</span></a> for my new album 'Northern Adventures - The Canada Sessions Vol. 1' from <a contents="Jack Bowers" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.allaboutjazz.com/northern-adventures-al-muirhead-chronograph-records-review-by-jack-bowers.php" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#27ae60;">Jack Bowers</span></a>.<br><br>Click the following link for the entire review:<strong><span style="color:#27ae60;"> </span><a contents="Album Review" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.allaboutjazz.com/northern-adventures-al-muirhead-chronograph-records-review-by-jack-bowers.php" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#27ae60;">Album Review</span></a></strong><br><br>Jack gave the album <strong>4 of 5 stars</strong> and mentioned <em>"Muirhead's Northern Adventures...are well worth seeking out and sharing"</em>.</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/46023592017-02-22T14:49:51-07:002020-04-11T14:48:25-06:00Co-Host for Monica Miller's Mixtape Tonight on CKUA<p>Tune in tonight (Feb 22nd, 2017) at 7pm MST at <strong><a contents="www.ckua.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ckua.com" target="_blank">www.ckua.com</a> </strong>as I co-host mixtape with host Monica Miller. For more info and for my full playlist visit<strong> <a contents="www.ckua.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ckua.com/al-muirheads-trumpet-palooza-playlist-weeks-mixtape" style="" target="_blank">www.ckua.com</a></strong><br><br><strong>Synopsis:</strong><br><br>On this week’s Mixtape we’re all about brass as we spend the hour with Calgary jazz trumpeter Al Muirhead. Originally from Regina, Al has been a Calgarian since the 1960s – running a music store, working in television, writing, arranging, teaching and, with his wife Ida, raising a family. Now in his 80s, the past 2 and a half years have been something of a renaissance for Al Muirhead jazz trumpeter with the rapid-fire release of 3 albums in 3 years featuring Al as leader – all on Calgary’s Chronograph Records. The first, was 2014’s It’s About Time – the title a reference to it being Al’s first recording as a leader after something like 70 years as professional musician. It was nominated for a JUNO Award. Oop! (2016) featured Al in the company of P.J. Perry and Tommy Banks. The most recent, Northern Adventures: The Canada Sessions Volume 1 was just released this month. </p>
<p>Al was the recipient of the 2013 Heritage Award from the Western Canadian Music Alliance. As part of that year’s Western Canadian Music Awards ceremony this video shown illustrating to the audience gathered that evening why he was more than deserving of the honour! <strong><a contents="video link" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/CH8Is-tXUlI" style="" target="_blank">video link</a></strong></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/45840762017-02-10T09:00:00-07:002020-07-16T11:26:31-06:00New album #1 in Canada & #27 in the US this week!<p>What a pleasant surprise. The new album 'Northern Adventures - The Canada Sessions Vol. 1' is in it's 2nd week at #1 in Canada on the Earshot Jazz Charts and just entered the US jazzweek.com charts at #27. Such an honour that people are enjoying this music. Thank you all so very much! We're all very proud of the new album featuring so many wonderful #Canadian #Jazz musicians!<br><br>Al<br><br>@earshot_online<br>@jazzweek</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/45766732017-02-04T13:39:36-07:002020-11-12T04:24:01-07:00Calgary & Edmonton CD Releases<p>Thanks to everyone who came out for some very special shows for the release of my latest CD 'Northern Adventures - The Canada Sessions Vol. 1'.<br><br>Such great listening crowds in Edmonton at the Yardbird Suite and in Calgary at the King Eddy at the National Music Centre. If you missed the shows we had a great band featuring myself on trumpet and bass trumpet with my good friend Tommy Banks on piano, Campbell Ryga from Vancouver on saxophone and bassist Kodi Hutchinson.<br><br>We had some very special guests at both shows with guitarist Bobby Cairns on guitar for the Edmonton show and PJ Perry popping by for a tune lighting up the room. In Calgary, Johnny Summers of the Calgary Jazz Orchestra joined me on trumpet.<br><br>Thanks so much to everyone for your support!<br><br>Al</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/45639672017-01-25T16:30:47-07:002017-01-25T16:30:47-07:00CD Release Ticket Links for Edmonton (Jan 28th) & Calgary (Feb 4th)To purchase tickets for the 'Northern Adventures - Canada Sessions Vol. 1' CD Releases click on the following links:<br><br><strong>Edmonton - Jan 28th at the Yardbird Suite</strong>
<p><a contents="Click here to buy Al Muirhead Edmonton CD Release Tickets!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://boxoffice.tixonthesquare.ca/single/SelectSeating.aspx?p=3689" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Click here to buy Al Muirhead Edmonton CD Release Tickets!</strong></span></a><br><br><strong>Calgary - Feb 4th at the King Eddy</strong><br><br><a contents="Click here to buy Al Muirhead Calgary CD Release Tickets!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/al-muirhead-northern-adventures-cd-release-tickets-31072819640?aff=es2" style="" target="_blank"><span style="color:#FF0000;"><strong>Click here to buy Al Muirhead Calgary CD Release Tickets!</strong></span></a><br><br>Join Al for the release of his newest album 'Northern Adventures - Canada Sessions Vol. 1'. Both shows will feature Al with some old friends playing music from the new album that features some of Canada's top musicians. <strong>Al Muirhead (Trumpet), Tommy Banks (Piano), Campbell Ryga (Sax) & Kodi Hutchinson (Bass)</strong>.<br><br>For the <strong>Edmonton </strong>show <strong>guitarist Bobby Cairns</strong> will also joining Al!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/45406332017-01-06T18:37:44-07:002020-04-11T14:49:08-06:00New album coming out this month!<p><strong>Northern Adventures - The Canada Sessions Vol. 1</strong><br><br>I am excited to announce the release of my third album "Northern Adventures - The Canada Sessions Vol. 1" featuring collaborations with some old and new musical friends from across the country! The album will be coming out January 27, 2017... </p>
<p>Introducing the first of five combinations of musicians on the album:<br><br>Mike Murley (sax) + Chris Andrew (piano) + Al Muirhead (trumpet & bass trumpet)</p>
<p>Thanks to Alberta Foundation for the Arts, The Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent On Recordings (FACTOR), Bill Treherne and Jolene Treherne for helping this project come to life!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/44200782016-10-14T17:37:35-06:002020-04-11T14:49:26-06:00Breakout West Performance with Jack Semple<p>So happy to be back in my hometown performing this evening as part of the Western Canadian Music Awards at the Breakout West Festival. Such an honour to be nominated for Jazz Artist of the Year!<br><br>What started as a small affair performing in trio tonight has expanded with so many wonderful musicians in town.<br><br>Joining my trio of Jack Semple on guitar and Kodi Hutchinson on bass will be drummer Tyler Hornby, pianist Kristian Alexandrov and Dean McNeil on trumpet. Looking forward to making music with so many old friends.<br><br>Show is at 10:15pm at the Capitol club in Regina, SK.<br><br> </p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/44200112016-09-26T10:00:00-06:002016-10-14T17:32:48-06:00YYC Music Award WinSuch an honour this past weekend to be the first ever recipient of the 'Jazz Artist of the Year' award at the inaugural YYC Music Awards.<br><br>Congratulations to all my fellow nominees: Johnny Summers, Tyler Hornby, The Hutchinson Andrew Trio and the KIVA Singers.<br><br>Wonderful event at the brand new National Music Centre in Calgary!<p>http://yycmusicawards.com/</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/42846192016-07-19T09:00:00-06:002020-04-11T14:49:47-06:00CD Review - Oop! - Ted Quinlan - The Whole Note<p><a contents="Oop! CD Review - Ted Quinlan (TheWholeNote.com)" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.thewholenote.com/index.php/booksrecords2/listening-room/26064-oop-al-muirhead-tommy-banks-pj-perry" target="_blank"><strong>Oop! CD Review </strong>- Ted Quinlan (TheWholeNote.com)</a><br><br>Oop! - Al Muirhead; Tommy Banks; PJ Perry <br>Chronograph Records CR045 (www.chronographrecords.com) </p>
<p>Oop! by Calgary-based trumpeter Al Muirhead exemplifies the reasons that the American songbook continues to inspire jazz musicians some eight decades after many of its tunes were originally written. Accompanied by iconic musicians PJ Perry on alto saxophone and Tommy Banks on piano, Muirhead virtually owns the compositions presented here and embodies the approaches that are essential to getting deeply inside this time-honoured material. All three of these musicians (as well as percussionist Rogerio Boccato who guests on Black Orpheus) possess a longstanding connection to this music and play it in the most natural way possible. </p>
<p>Miles Davis’ The Theme (based on the chord changes to Gershwin’s I Got Rhythm) opens the album with Muirhead and Perry playing the line in harmony over Banks’ relentlessly swinging piano. Perry, one of the world’s finest exponents of the bebop tradition, solos brilliantly followed by Muirhead who exhibits impeccable taste and tone in his relaxed, melodic delivery. Tommy Banks plays one perfect chorus of unaccompanied piano, demonstrating his blues-infused bop style. Rhythm changes, as we refer to tunes based on the classics, are a test piece for jazz musicians and The Theme firmly establishes the impressive credentials of these players. </p>
<p>The ballad medley is a testament to the deceptively simple art of playing a melody beautifully. Alfred Newman’s Street Scene, featured in the overture of How To Marry A Millionaire, and an uncharacteristically languid reading of Mean To Me, are pleasant surprises from this superb trio of seasoned pros.<br><br>- Ted Quinlan (TheWholeNote.com)</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/42846212016-06-01T08:45:00-06:002020-04-11T14:53:07-06:00Oop! #5 on Canadian Jazz Radio for Month of May<p><a contents="!earshot charts - may 2016 - top 20 jazz " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.earshot-online.com/charts/2016/May/jazz.cfm">!earshot charts - may 2016 - top 20 jazz </a></p>
<p>Asterisk (*) denotes Canadian artists. All !earshot charts in this issue reflect actual airplay on campus/community stations during the month of May 2016. Charts are weighted according to broadcast range and market size. To view older charts from as far back as 1999, go to our charts main page. </p>
<p>top 200 >> electronic | hip hop | international | jazz | loud | folk/roots/blues | main charts page </p>
<p>1 Atlantis Jazz Ensemble * Oceanic Suite Marlow <br>2 Henry Threadgill Ensemble Double Up Old Locks And Irregular Verbs Pi <br>3 Snarky Puppy Culch Vulcha Ground Up <br>4 Nick Fraser Quartet* Starer Self-Released <br><strong>5 Al Muirhead * Oop! Chronograph </strong><br>6 Organik Vibe Trio Things We Did Last Summer Cellar Live <br>7 James Danderfer * Time and Tide Reigning Parade <br>8 The Beeched Wailers * The Johnson Lake Sessions Self-Released <br>9 Ches Smith The Bell ECM <br>10 Dr. Lonnie Smith Evolution Blue Note <br>11 Horse Lords Interventions Northern Spy <br>12 Misc * Misc Bonsound <br>13 Gunwale Polynya Aerophonic <br>14 Thumbscrew Convallaria Cuneiform <br>15 See Through 5 * Utilities All-Set! <br>16 Kinga * Guess Who I Saw Today Arts7 <br>17 Michael Formanek Ensemble Kolossus The Distance ECM <br>18 Brahja Waldman * Wisdomatic Self-Released <br>19 Alex Goodman * Border Crossing OA2 <br>20 Myriad3 * Moons Alma</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/41970842016-05-25T17:43:04-06:002020-04-11T14:53:22-06:00Cadence Magazine Review - 'It's About Time'<p>Thanks to Sheila Thistlethwaite who came across a nice review of 'It's About Time' from Cadence Magazine's January 2016 issue:</p>
<p><strong>AL MUIRHEAD - IT'S ABOUT TIME</strong><br>CHRONOGRAPH CR-041. <br><br>SLEEPY TIME DOWN SOUTH / A NIGHT IN TUNISIA / IDA MAE / PENNIES FROM HEAVEN/ IT'S ABOUT TIME / STARDUST / JOY SPRING / ALL BLUES / MR. CLEAN / BREAKFAST WINE / THE GIRL NEXT DOOR. 50:59. <br><em>Muirhead, tpt, b tpt, vcl; P. J. Perry, as, ts; Tommy Banks, p; kodi Hutchinson, b; Tyler Hornby, d.<br>Calgary, Alberta, Canada. </em><br> <br>Here's a new name for us. Our neighbors to the north have produced many musicians we have eventually become familiar with, Oscar Peterson being the most well known. But trumpet ace Al Muirhead is very well known among fellow Canadian musicians especially on the studio scene where he has appeared on a multitude of albums many by A-list artists. The easily recognized reed master P.J. Perry is probably the most recognizable to Cadence readers and life-long friend Tommy Banks mans the piano bench. The principal's clear, ringing tones are heard on eleven tracks many of which are salutes to trumpet kings (Dizzy Gillespie, Clifford Brown and Miles Davis). The title number and “Ida Mae” are both from Muirhead's pen and while not especially memorable serve as good blowing vehicles. With eight decades in his pocket, <br>it is heartening to see veteran players receiving some well-deserved exposure while they are still here to enjoy it. <em><strong>- Larry Hollis</strong></em></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/41646802016-05-03T15:00:00-06:002020-04-11T14:54:12-06:00Breakout West Nomination<p>Found out today that I was nominated for a Western Canadian Music Award for Jazz Artist of the Year!<br><br>Such a whirlwind of nominations, I'm overwhelmed by the response to my music! I guess it ain't over till the fat lady sings!<br><br>-Oop!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/41646792016-04-04T10:00:00-06:002022-03-19T04:48:35-06:00Thank you for the overwhelming support at the JUNOs!<p>Thank you so much for all of your well-wishes at the JUNO's this past weekend!<br><br>It was such an honour to be nominated, and the winner Robi Botos is an amazing person and musician. Well-deserved!<br><br>Had such a great time playing at Ironwood for the Jazz Showcase with my band and special guest Chris Andrew on piano. Was so happy to have Tommy make it down to the show in time to sit in for a couple of tunes. PJ, Kodi & Tyler sounded great! Jens Lindemann came and played one of my trumpets with me as well!<br><br>Such an amazing night performing live at the JUNO awards on Saturday night with the JUNO Jazz All-Stars (Jerry Granelli, Tommy Banks, Kodi Hutchinson, Allison Au, Rich Brown, Robi Botos, Mark Kelso & myself). I'm told you can download the track on itunes!<br><br>Looking forward to making more music! All the best!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/40323712016-02-09T09:42:19-07:002020-04-11T14:54:55-06:00Sophmore Album 'Oop!' Now Available on iTunes in US!<p>My Second album 'Oop!' is now available on iTunes in the US!<br><br>CD's and tracks can also be purchased at the following link: </p>
<p><a contents="www.chronographrecords.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://chronographrecords.com/artists.php?artist=21" target="_blank">www.chronographrecords.com</a></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/40323132016-02-03T15:00:00-07:002020-04-11T14:55:04-06:00CBC Eyeopener Interview & Article<p>Such a pleasure being invited on the CBC Eyeopener this morning. Enjoyed my chat with host David Gray. So much excitement over my recent JUNO nomination for 'It's About Time'.<br><br>For the podcast of the interview and article visit:</p>
<p><a contents="www.cbc.ca" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/juno-jazz-trumpeter-1.3432043" target="_blank">www.cbc.ca</a></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/40323152016-02-02T12:00:00-07:002020-04-11T14:55:22-06:00JUNO Nomination - 'It's About Time'<p>A whirlwind of a day. Just found out that my debut album 'It's About Time' has been nominated for a JUNO award in the 'Jazz Album of the Year: Solo' category. Very humbled and honoured to be mentioned with so many other wonderful jazz artists!<br><br>To see the nominees this year: <a contents="www.junoawards.ca/nominees" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://junoawards.ca/nominees/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#0000FF;">www.junoawards.ca/nominees</span></a><br><br>Thank you already to the many well-wishers on this exciting announcement!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/40323632016-01-25T09:25:00-07:002022-02-06T08:07:42-07:00Sophmore Album 'Oop!' Now Available!<p>Had a great weekend releasing my second CD 'Oop!' this past weekend with old friends Tommy Banks (piano) and PJ Perry (sax) in Calgary and Edmonton.<br><br>Thank you to everyone who came out to listen. Such an enjoyable weekend of music!<br><br>CD's can be purchased at the following link:</p>
<p><a contents="www.chronographrecords.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://chronographrecords.com/releases/oop/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#0000FF;">www.chronographrecords.com</span></a><br><br>Music also available at <strong>iTunes</strong></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/40017082016-01-21T23:34:45-07:002020-04-11T14:57:16-06:00Oop! CD Release<p>Very excited for the release of my new CD<strong> Oop! </strong>featuring two of my oldest friends, <strong>Tommy Banks</strong> (piano) and <strong>PJ Perry</strong> (sax). We had a great time in studio recording some of our favourite jazz standards. There is a special musical connection on ‘Oop!’ that can only be found with three good friends who have over 60 years of experience playing together!<br><br>Reminder our two shows are as follows:<br><br><strong>Calgary</strong><br>Friday Jan. 22nd - 7pm<br>National Music Centre<br>134 11 Ave SE<br>Tix $25<br>http://ow.ly/Vmx5D</p>
<p><strong>Edmonton</strong><br>Saturday Jan. 23rd - 8pm <br>Yardbird Suite<br>11 Tommy Banks Way <br>TICKETS - MEMBERS $26, GUESTS $30<br>www.yardbirdsuite.com</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/39647882015-12-15T14:57:51-07:002020-04-11T15:01:30-06:00Yogi Berra on Jazz<p><span style="color:#A52A2A;"><em>An interview with the Master of Malapropisms</em></span><br><br><strong>Interviewer:</strong><span style="color:#800080;"> </span> Can you explain Jazz? <br><br><strong><span style="color:#A52A2A;">Yogi: </span></strong> I can't, but I will. 90% of all Jazz is half improvisation. The other half is the part people play while others are playing something they never played with anyone who played that part. So if you play the wrong part, its right. If you play the right part, it might be right if you play it wrong enough. But if you play it too right, it's wrong. <br><br><strong>Interviewer: </strong>I don't understand. <br><br><span style="color:#A52A2A;"><strong>Yogi: </strong></span>Anyone who understands Jazz knows that you can't understand it. It's too complicated. That's what's so simple about it. <br><br><strong>Interviewer:</strong> Do you understand it? <br><br><strong><span style="color:#A52A2A;">Yogi: </span></strong>No. That's why I can explain it. If I understood it, I wouldn't know anything about it. <br><br><strong>Interviewer: </strong> Are there any great Jazz players alive today? <br><br><span style="color:#A52A2A;"><strong>Yogi: </strong></span> No. All the great Jazz players alive today are dead. Except for the ones that are still alive. But so many of them are dead, that the ones that are still alive are dying to be like the ones that are dead. <br><br><strong>Interviewer: </strong>What is syncopation? <br><br><strong><span style="color:#A52A2A;">Yogi: </span></strong>That's when the note that you should hear now happens either before or after you hear it. In Jazz, you don't hear notes when they happen because that would be some other type of music. Other types of music can be Jazz, but only if they're the same as something different from those other kinds. <br><br><strong>Interviewer: </strong>Now I really don't understand. <br><br><span style="color:#A52A2A;"><strong>Yogi: </strong></span> I haven't taught you enough for you to not understand Jazz that well. </p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/40322902015-10-05T22:00:00-06:002020-06-08T20:56:47-06:00Thank you for the 80th Birthday Celebration<p>Thank you to all my friends and family who came out to celebrate my 80th Birthday at the Ironwood Sunday. A wonderful surprise that Johnny Summers and Jim Murray organized for me. Such a pleasure seeing some old friends and family; Cal, Tommy, Jens and so many more!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/37097022015-05-14T21:41:50-06:002020-09-16T03:53:12-06:00Trumpet Tips #3: Talent isn't enough<p>I've known some wonderfully talented players in my days, some, who never amounted to much. Everything came so easily to them. However, they didn't spend the necessary time on their horn to become a really good strong player. Talent just opens up the door. After that you have to work just as hard as the less talented.<br><br>A well organized practice routine is vital to a trumpet players growth.<br><br>How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice baby, practice!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/36465432015-04-07T20:43:38-06:002020-04-11T15:08:11-06:00Trumpet Tips #2<p>When starting off playing music, take every opportunity that comes your way to play with different ensembles - in all genres. Sometimes we put the blinders on, or close our ears to styles of music that may not be our favourite to play or listen to. It's been my experience that you can learn a lot from these experiences, and if you are going to make a living in the music business, more doors will be open to you.<br><br>Also, as a trumpet player, no matter what genre of music you play, take lessons from the best Classical Trumpet player in your area - learn the fundamentals. </p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/35927152015-03-11T17:48:20-06:002020-04-11T15:08:39-06:00Trumpet Tips #1: Trumpet books every aspiring trumpet player needs to have in their library.<p>Welcome to my <strong>Trumpet Tips</strong>!<br><br>I thought I would out start out easy with my first trumpet tip and give a short list of trumpet books every aspiring trumpet player should have!<br><br>My personal favourites:<br><br>1. <span class="a-size-large" id="productTitle">Arban's Complete Conservatory Method for Trumpet<br>2. </span>Clarke Studies<br>3. The Original Louis Maggio System for Brass : Basic & Advance Course for Trumpet<br><br>Enjoy!<br><br>Al 'oop' Muirhead</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33843872014-12-10T18:15:03-07:002020-04-11T15:10:21-06:00'It's About Time' Hits #1 on the Canadian Jazz Charts!<p>So excited to see that my new album is being received so positively by everyone. Such an honour to reach #1 on the Canadian <a contents="Earshot Jazz Charts for this week!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.earshot-online.com/charts/index.cfm?intChartTypeID=105" target="_blank">Earshot Jazz Charts for this week!</a><br><br>Thanks so much to everyone for listening to the new album and for your support and good wishes.</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33053612014-11-11T12:10:00-07:002020-07-16T11:26:55-06:00'It's About Time' climbing the Canadian Jazz Charts<p>Checkout the Earshot charts where Al's album 'It's About Time' is currently #9 in Canada! <a contents="Earshot Jazz Charts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.earshot-online.com/charts/index.cfm?intChartTypeID=105" target="_blank">Earshot Jazz Charts</a></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33053122014-10-24T11:50:00-06:002014-11-19T13:00:06-07:00Al Muirhead Live interview Oct 26th on WHPK ChicagoJoin Al live in conversation with Lofton Emenari III on 'What Is This Thing Called Jazz?' on WHPK Radio Chicago between 2-4pm CST.Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33053592014-10-23T12:10:00-06:002020-04-11T15:10:38-06:00Interview with Neon Jazz KCXL Radio<p>Al Muirhead chats with Joe Dimino of KCXL Radio and Neon Jazz. Listen to the entire interview here: <a contents="Al Muirhead Neon Jazz Interview" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fk91fzceMI&index=4&list=PLyM5WzXDfFKup7ivekekBYW099nvvp8uO" target="_blank">Al Muirhead Neon Jazz Interview</a></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33053232014-10-23T12:05:00-06:002020-04-11T14:39:45-06:00Cashbox Canada Article - Sandy Graham<p>Lovely article on Al at Cashbox Canada from Sandy Graham. Al and Sandy discuss Al's new album 'It's About time' and Al's musical background.<br><br>Click Cashbox Article here: <a contents="Al Muirhead Cashbox Canada" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://cashboxcanada.ca/node/5642" target="_blank">Al Muirhead Cashbox Canada</a></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33053162014-10-21T11:55:00-06:002020-04-11T15:10:58-06:00'It's About Time' release to North American Radio<p>Al's new album <a contents="'It's About Time'" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.chronographrecords.com/artists.php?artist=21" target="_blank">'It's About Time'</a> has been released to North American Radio. Keep your eyes on the charts as and your ear to the dial as the new album makes it's way to music fans everywhere!</p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33053142014-10-17T11:55:00-06:002021-12-07T06:10:12-07:00Calgary Herald Article - Mike Bell<p>Check out the fantastic article from Mike Bell on Al Muirhead in the Calgary Herald today. Mike discusses Al's new album, music and career.<br><br>Click to view the article here: <a contents="Al Muirhead Article" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.calgaryherald.com/entertainment/About+Time+Calgary+jazz+legend+Muirhead+takes+centre+stage+with+debut+album/10298986/story.html" target="_blank">Al Muirhead Article</a></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33053072014-09-01T11:45:00-06:002020-04-11T15:11:31-06:00Al Muirhead CD Release as part of JazzYYC Concert Series<p>Al Muirhead will be releasing his debut album 'It's About Time' in concert on October 18th, 2014 at the River Park Church in Calgary as part of the JazzYYC Illumin8 Concert Series with Tommy Banks (pn), PJ Perry (sx), Kodi Hutchinson (bs), and Tyler Hornby (dr). Tickets and information are available at <a contents="www.jazzyyc.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.jazzyyc.com" target="_blank">www.jazzyyc.com</a></p>Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33053052014-05-01T11:40:00-06:002014-11-19T12:39:49-07:00Al Muirhead 2014 Summer Jazz Festival Tour AnnouncedAl Muirhead will be performing in Alberta as part of the 2014 Medicine Hat Jazz Festival and 2014 Edmonton International Jazz Festival. He will be performing music from his upcoming album 'It's About Time' set to be released in October 2014 on Chronograph Records. The band will include the musicians from the recording including Tommy Banks (pn), PJ Perry (dr), Kodi Hutchinson (bs), and Tyler Hornby (dr).<br><br>Edmonton - June 23, 2014 - 7pm - (OPSAC)<br>Medicine Hat - June 27, 2014 - 8pm - (Esplanade Theatre)Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33052282013-08-23T11:35:00-06:002014-11-19T12:44:31-07:00Al Muirhead goes into studio to record debut albumJazz veteran Al Muirhead has decided at 78 years old to record his debut album. The album will be a mixture of duo, trio, and quintet tunes with a band featuring old friends Tommy Banks (piano), PJ Perry (Sax), and will be joined by bassist Kodi Hutchinson and drummer Tyler Hornby. The album will feature music from Al's trumpet heroes including Miles Davis, Louis Armstrong, Bobby Shew, and Clifford Brown as well as some brand new original tunes written for this project. The album will be recorded in Calgary at the Station Studio's by Spencer Cheyne with the gracious support of the Alberta Foundation for the Arts and some very special private donors.Al Muirheadtag:www.almuirhead.com,2005:Post/33052232013-08-01T11:25:00-06:002020-04-11T15:11:47-06:00Al Muirhead wins the 2013 WCMA Heritage Award<p>Al Muirhead wins the 2013 WCMA Heritage Award for his music mentorship and industry building efforts in Western Canada.</p>
<p class="newsText">The Western Canadian Music Awards wrapped up this past weekend in Calgary with one of Chronograph Records newest member takings home one of the few awards handed out to an Albertan this year. Al was given the Heritage award at the industry brunch on Saturday morning and performed with fellow Chronograph artist and WCMA nominated jazz pianist Chris Andrew at the Sunday evening awards show.</p>
<p class="newsText">Known as one of Canada's best trumpet players, Al Muirhead was honoured for a career spanning over 60 years. At 78 years old, Al has recently decided to document his amazing career with an album of music that is a tribute to his trumpet heroes growing up. The new album set for release in early 2014 is aptly named 'It's about time'. Special guests Tommy Banks (piano) and PJ Perry (sax) will be joining Al on the album.</p>
<p class="newsText">Two other Chronograph artists were nominated in the WCMA artistic categories this year; 100 mile house in the Roots Duo/Group Recording of the Year category with their album Wait With Me, and the Hutchinson Andrew Trio for Jazz Recording of the Year with their latest release Prairie Modern.</p>Al Muirhead