Jul 9, 2024 11:35 AM
Trumpeter, Educator Jim Rotondi Dies at 61
Jim Rotondi, a renowned hard-bop trumpeter, composer and educator, died suddenly on July 7 at a hospital in France. He…
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(Photo: Desmond White)How do you find the balance between the compositions and the improvisations?
When I compose, sometimes I will hear a specific instrument for a certain part, or sometimes I will want one of the member’s specific personalities for a part. But I always want to make sure each member is contributing to the group sound. I want to make room for everybody to be part of the dialogue and the conversation, for each voice to be expressed.
Do you have a favorite tune on the album?
Every tune for me is like a different friend. They all give me a different way to express myself. It’s always a great surprise to hear them come together in the finished product.
Where do you find inspiration?
Listening to music and from everyday life encounters; noticing something frustrating or seeing someone do something inspirational.
I’ll find a theme evolving when there’s something I’m focusing on in my life—relationships, setting boundaries, or women not getting paid as much as men. I think people can relate to these stories, expressed through the music, when they hear you perform. I like to give the audience an introduction with some background and context when I play a tune. A lot of people aren’t familiar with jazz, especially instrumental jazz, so I think it can help them to understand the emotional content of the music, if they know where I’m coming from as a composer.
What has been your biggest challenge as an artist and composer?
That’s a big question. The biggest challenge is to get out of my own way. Any limits are internal; you can do as much as you can imagine doing and as much as you allow yourself to do. DB
Jim Rotondi was acclaimed for his wide, round trumpet tone, remarkable virtuosity and assured swing.
Jul 9, 2024 11:35 AM
Jim Rotondi, a renowned hard-bop trumpeter, composer and educator, died suddenly on July 7 at a hospital in France. He…
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