This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet performer Jay Webb, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass.
This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
"Jay Webb Trumpet Interview"
And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here
You might know him from TikTok, or perhaps any of the myriad projects where he appears: The Hornheads, the Cory Wong and the Wongnotes YouTube series, any number of Broadway orchestra pits, the Grammy-winning 8-Bit Big Band, or most recently his Doc Severinsen tribute project (DST Band).
Jay Webb is as versatile as they come, and today he shares his story and advice on how to forge a career in the 2020's.
We talk about his late start in reading music, having learned to play by ear first, and then how moving to New Orleans provided a unique musical experience and education.
Jay shares insight on the balance between touring and freelancing, and that when bringing his career back to Philadelphia years later, it was thanks to having maintained connections in the music industry that he was able to quickly find more opportunities.
You never know who you might connect with and ask you to sub in for a gig, last minute. Jay shows us how to say "Yes" with confidence, and build the professional career that works for you.
Don't let someone else define your career!
About Jay Webb:
Jay Webb is one of today's most versatile and in demand trumpet players, seamlessly moving between the concert hall, the recording studio, and the world's biggest stages.
Whether performing with the National Symphony Orchestra, laying down pristine studio tracks, or sharing the spotlight with artists like Cory Wong, Shakira, Lake Street Dive, Ed Sheeran, Queen Latifah, John Legend, and the Grammy Award–winning 8-Bit Big Band, Jay has earned a reputation as a musician who truly does it all.
Born in Hamburg, New Jersey, Jay was introduced to the trumpet at the age of three by his father. His natural ability and sharp ear were evident early on, and by fourth grade he was already playing in the school band. From there, his talent and dedication propelled him into a lifelong career in music.
Jay's newest project, The DST Band, is a heartfelt tribute to legendary trumpeter Doc Severinsen. With dazzling recreations of Severinsen's most memorable performances, the ensemble breathes new life into beloved big band classics such as Stardust, I'm Getting Sentimental Over You, and Flying Home.
Today, Jay is widely recognized as one of the world's premier trumpet players in both live performance and studio settings. Beyond the stage, he is also a highly sought-after clinician, inspiring the next generation of musicians with his artistry and insight.
When not touring internationally, Jay remains deeply connected to New York City's vibrant music scene. He can often be found performing in Broadway orchestras and contributing to an array of recording projects, continuing to showcase the versatility and excellence that define his career.
Jay Webb is Yamaha Performance artist, and plays Yamaha horns exclusively.
Episode Links:
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Podcast Credits:
- "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear
- Podcast Host - John Snell
- Cover Photo Credit - Courtesy Jay Webb
- Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg
