{"title":"Rich Willey","description":"\u003cp\u003eRich Willey is a powerhouse multi-instrumentalist whose career spans the full spectrum of the jazz world, from high-octane big bands to intimate “tune smith” compositions. A master of the trumpet, bass trumpet, and tuba, Willey’s technical versatility is matched only by his deep respect for the bop tradition. An alumnus of North Texas State University and a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music, his pedigree is evident in a robust playing style that is both soulfully engaging and viscerally swinging. His professional resume reads like a chronicle of jazz royalty. Rich honed his craft on the road with the legendary Maynard Ferguson, contributing to the iconic, high-energy brass sound for which Ferguson was famous. He also performed and recorded with the incomparable Mel Tormé, and completed numerous tours with the world-renowned Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. His collaborative credits extend to jazz giants such as Lionel Hampton, Hank Mobley, Chris Potter, Paquito D’Rivera and Claudio Roditi, among many others. Beyond the stage, Rich is a highly influential educator and the visionary behind Boptism Music. Through this platform, he has authored dozens of essential jazz practice books and play-along methods, establishing himself as a vital resource for musicians worldwide. In recent years, he has expanded his sonic palette to the Electronic Valve Instrument (EVI), studying under master John Swana to bridge the gap between traditional brass and modern synthesis. Whether laying down a deep foundation on the tuba or soaring on the trumpet, Rich Willey remains a dedicated craftsman committed to preserving the integrity of melody while staying singularly focused on keeping the \"fun\" in the music.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"rich-willey-down-dirty-cd","title":"Rich Willey - Down \u0026 Dirty (CD)","description":"Rich Willey’s Boptism Big Band — Down \u0026amp; Dirty\r\n\r\nWhat happens when you pair Rich Willey’s sharp original tunes with the world’s elite arrangers? You get Down \u0026amp; Dirty.\r\n\r\nArranged by titans like Gordon Goodwin, Michael Abene and Wally Minko, this 12-track collection was brought to life at Conway Studios by an all-star ensemble of L.A.’s top session players. Spanning a massive 77 minutes, the album refuses to be pigeonholed—seamlessly pivoting from gritty funk and reggae to sophisticated jazz and baroque textures.\r\n\r\nThe result: A world-class musical odyssey that proves the big band era isn’t just alive—it’s evolving.","brand":"Wise Cat Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52256803324197,"sku":"888295896603","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0758\/1250\/3845\/files\/Rich-Willey-Boptism-Big-Band-Down-and-Dirty-Front-Cover-Art-Final-1400x1400-1.png?v=1776827165"},{"product_id":"rich-willey-laid-back-vol-1-cd","title":"Rich Willey - Laid Back Vol. 1 (CD)","description":"Composer and trumpeter Rich Willey presents a dynamic ensemble assembled by Chicago-based producer Carey Deadman to bring his tunes to life, arranged by Grammy-nominated pianist and composer Wally Minko. The recording spotlights the innovative artistry of John Swana on EVI (electronic valve instrument), surrounded by some of Chicago’s premier session musicians.\r\n\r\nBrimming with memorable melodies, vibrant ensembles, and inspired solos, this collection grooves with an energy that ensures a good time will be had by all. Accessible yet sophisticated, the music offers a refreshing contrast to today’s more cerebral “serious jazz,” inviting listeners to reconnect with the joy and spirit that defined the genre’s early days. This set harkens back to a time when “good was popular and popular was good.”","brand":"Boptism","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52279535010085,"sku":"195269417390","price":9.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0758\/1250\/3845\/files\/LaidBackVol1-Cover-Square.png?v=1778085617"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0758\/1250\/3845\/collections\/Rich-Willey-Boptism-Big-Band-Down-and-Dirty-Front-Cover-Art-Final-1400x1400-1_1b680ebb-0fcb-4275-8fdd-5670f88cb7c5.png?v=1778799802","url":"https:\/\/store.spinneymedia.com\/collections\/rich-willey.oembed","provider":"Spinney Media","version":"1.0","type":"link"}