EP 7: Simon Gardner on Lead Trumpet Legacy, Maynard High Notes & Surviving the Session Scene

In this powerful episode of the Louis Dowdeswell Podcast, legendary British lead trumpet player Simon Gardner shares untold stories from decades on the London music scene. From playing with Derek Watkins to discovering Maynard Ferguson, Simon reveals his journey from school band to West End pit, along with heartfelt advice for the next generation.

Whether you're chasing a Super C or just trying to survive 8 shows a week, this chat is packed with practical wisdom, hilarious tour stories, and brass geekery you won’t hear anywhere else.

Topics Include:

Simon’s first trumpet—won by singing a scale

Playing along to Glenn Miller, Sinatra, and Maynard

Learning by ear vs traditional practice

Recording tips for section blend & feel

The reality of West End gigs & balancing family life

Creating the Super C Big Band in tribute to Derek Watkins

🎧 Listen now and get inspired to embrace your own sound—with all its imperfections.

🕒 Timestamps / Highlights: 00:00 – Intro & warm welcome to Simon Gardner 03:00 – Simon’s hilarious first encounter with the trumpet 07:40 – Learning lead parts from Glenn Miller LPs 11:45 – Hearing Maynard Ferguson for the first time: mind blown 15:30 – Chasing sound over range: lessons from Conrad Gozzo 21:20 – Playing high vs. playing musically 26:00 – Derek Watkins stories & the birth of the Super C Big Band 32:15 – Teaching at RAM: Louis & Simon’s candid lesson memories 36:50 – Recording tips: perfection vs humanity in music 42:30 – “Play behind the beat”—but not too behind! 47:10 – Big band timing, blend & the illusion of perfection 51:50 – Simon’s solo album & multitracking brass sections 55:00 – Time, tone & why sound is your musical fingerprint 59:30 – West End life: the reality behind 8 shows a week 1:04:00 – The biggest change in the London session scene 1:09:20 – Advice to young players: say yes, show up, play everything 1:12:00 – Closing thoughts & gratitude

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