Top trumpeter conducts Navy band workshop

On May 4, internationally renowned trumpeter John Hoffman conducted a workshop with the Royal Australian Navy Band Melbourne at HMAS Cerberus during a break in his tour.

CAPTION: John Hoffman hosts a workshop with RAN Band Melbourne in its studio at HMAS Cerberus in Victoria. Story by Able Seaman Brendan McKee.

He led a rehearsal with the big band and the jazz ensemble, sharing his experience and knowledge with the musicians.

Mr Hoffman is regarded in the music industry as one of the finest lead and jazz trumpeters.

Originally from the USA, he has toured and recorded with the Buddy Rich Band, the Woody Herman Orchestra, the Glen Miller Buddy de Franco Band and the Harry James Orchestra.

He also has performed with Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan, Tony Bennett, Dizzy Gillespie, Sammy Davis Jnr., Shirley Bassey, Ray Charles, and other greats.

Lieutenant David Coit, from the Navy band, said it was a pleasure to work with Mr Hoffman.

“As such an influential musician both of the American and Australia scenes, John has shaped a generation of musicians in Australia and played, toured and recorded with some of the best in the world,” Lieutenant Coit said.

“With this experience, there is no other clinician like him in Australia for the jazz idiom and professionally, and everyone gained and improved from his time with us.”

Lieutenant Coit said the band members enjoyed the workshop and have taken a lot from the session.

“We hope that there will be an opportunity to work with John again in the not too distance future,” he said.

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