On Saturday, October 4, 2008 at 1 PM the Museum welcomed Trumpets R Us for a special performance.   Under the leadership of its founder, Bill Sumner, the ensemble consists of nine trumpets, a tuba and rhythm section, performing selections arranged for trumpet choir.

Musical selections in the past have included “Tico, Tico,” “Bugler’s Holiday,” “Concerto for Two Trumpets” by Vivaldi, a Stan Kenton standard “Here’s that Rainy Day,” “La Virgen de la Macarena,” “Sing, Sing, Sing,” “A Coconut Named Alex” based on Maynard Ferguson’s Coconut Champagne, and “Zoot Suit Riot” by Cherry Poppin Daddies.  Frank Nelson, a long time resident of San Diego and former musical arranger for jazz great Benny Carter and the Alvino Rey Big Band, contributed to the ensemble’s musical library with special arrangements of “Cherokee,” “Bye, Bye Blues” and “How High the Moon.”

The inspiration for this ensemble—which incorporates Bb trumpets, piccolo trumpets and flugelhorns to create a unique brass timbre—came from the recent success of similar trombone and French horn ensembles that have seen popular success and acclaim during concerts at the Museum of Making Music.  Many of the musicians hail from the Coastal Communities Concert Band and other professional and semi-professional musical organizations throughout San Diego County.  Several of the musicians also have professional careers.  The group includes an attorney, electrical engineer, computer network manager, a construction contractor, high school band directors and retired school administrators.

Photos (click to enlarge):