A Word with Tim Dueppen
Q) When and why did you start playing?
A) I began playing in trombone in the 7th grade in Band Class. I had originally wanted to play French Horn, but they did not have enough instruments so I went to Euphonium. After a year of playing Euphonium, I moved to trombone and have been there ever since!
Q) Which musicians do you admire or were you influenced by?
A) I have been influenced by many musicians in my life. I would say that my two earliest teachers, Kevin Bradley and Bill Booth, were my biggest inspirations. They challenged me to be a true and well rounded musician. They keep inspiring me as I teach my students the lessons they taught me. Also, I surround myself with great musicians. In my professional brass Quintet, “Alias,” I perform with some of the best chamber musicians in the world, so I am inspired every moment I rehearse and perform with them.
Q) What are your fondest musical memories? In your house? In your neighborhood or town?
A) Performing in Carnegie Hall while on tour with John Marcellus is definitely up there. Just to know the people who have played that hall and being counted among them is a great honor. Also soloing next to Horace Silver and Bill Waltrous were memories I will never forget. I have also been fortunate enough to play live on stage with Frankie Valli, which was one of the most fun and inspiring moments of my life.
Q) Do you teach music?
A) Yes, I am Assistant Professor of Music in trombone at Lamar University.
Q) How do you balance your music with other obligations?
A) I try to remember to always put my Faith and Family first. Everything else is icing on the cake of life. My wife Abbie helps me balance these things and is the real inspiration in my life!
Newsletter-Nov18
