Steve Turre, a jazz legend and trombonist of the Saturday Night Live Band, joins the hosts to discuss his four decades with SNL and his discovery of conch shells. They also explore the profound influence of JJ Johnson in Steve's life.
Playing on Saturday Night Live requires flexibility and quick thinking, with limited interaction between musicians and hosts or cast members.
The significance of practicing fundamental skills such as long tones, flexibility, scales, and arpeggios for young musicians cannot be undermined, as neglecting these basics limits growth and potential.
Deep dives
Life as a Musician on Saturday Night Live
Playing on Saturday Night Live is a unique and exciting experience, with new music and skits every week. The audition process involved playing a short tune with Earl Gardner, and despite playing only a few minutes, they both got the gig. The show is fast-paced and requires flexibility and quick thinking. Steve has had the opportunity to interact with guest hosts, such as Dolly Parton and Patrick Stewart, but overall, there is limited interaction between the musicians and the hosts or cast members. Steve values the importance of sound in music and believes that a good sound can touch the audience deeply. He has experimented with unique sounds using shells and mutes, and he emphasizes the significance of rhythm and phrasing in creating a memorable musical performance. While the show has changed over the years and his role on the show has shifted, Steve maintains a positive attitude and appreciates the opportunities that Saturday Night Live has provided.
The Appeal of Tortoises as Pets
Tortoises are a popular choice for pets because of their low maintenance, peaceful nature, and long lifespan. Unlike dogs, tortoises require minimal care, do not make noise, and have a vegetarian diet, which eliminates the issue of odor. Observing their relaxed behavior can be soothing and a reminder to slow down in life.
The Importance of Basic Trombone Skills
The podcast highlights the significance of practicing fundamental skills such as long tones, flexibility, scales, and arpeggios for young musicians. By neglecting these basics, one's growth and potential as a trombonist can be limited. The host reflects on the regret of not dedicating more time to practice during their younger years, emphasizing the importance of proper instruction and understanding breath control, armature, sound, and articulation in developing a high level of proficiency.
Nick and Sebastian are joined by jazz legend and trombonist of the Saturday Night Live Band, Steve Turre. Steve talks about four decades with SNL, his discovery of conch shells and the profound relationship and influence JJ Johnson had in his life.
Steve Turre's favorite recordings: "Lament" by J.J. Johnson "Misty" w/ Ray Charles from Spur of the Moment Album "Midnight Montuno" from Viewpoint Album "Fire and Ice" featuring Steve Turre "African Shells Second Interlude: The Dream" from Santified Shells Album "No Regrets" - The Very Thought of You Album
All solos transcribed in his book "The Steve Turre Collection" Amazon
Learn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)
Produced and edited by Sebastian Vera
Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz
San Francisco sounds: https://freesound.org/people/graihwing/sounds/578082/
Learn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)
Produced and edited by Sebastian Vera
Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz