THE PURPOSE OF THIS SITE

I played the trumpet for about eight years until eventually quitting during college. After not playing for a period of seven years, I decided it was time to start playing again. When I began my trumpet playing comeback, I spent a fair amount of time looking for guidance on the Web. Along the way, I visited several websites and jazz blogs by professional jazz trumpet teachers and musicians. While I enjoyed reading these websites and blogs, they typically lacked information about HOW the people became great musicians... and that just happened to be something I wanted to know!

I did find a few exceptions, however, by both beginners and professionals. Their willingness to share their journey through ups and downs, inspired and motivated me to do the same.

I want to be clear: I'm not an expert. I don't think I'm a great jazz trumpet player, nor do I ever expect to become one. I'm simply learning as I go; playing for pure enjoyment. I built this jazz blog with the single hope that my experiences, both good and bad, will offer some encouragement or advice that will ultimately aid you in your own musical journey.

Oh, and my name is Rick...

THIS SITE'S NAME

I named my jazz blog after the George Gershwin tune "I Was Doing All Right." I first heard this tune about 15 years ago, on Dexter Gordon's album "Doin' Allright." The laid-back feel of the recording and the confidence exhibited by the musicians have inspired me ever since. Of course, the name also fits in well with my role as a comeback player :-)

To make things a little easier for my repeat visitors, I've also registered the domain name rickjazz.com. It's easier to remember than iwasdoingallright.com and it will get you here just the same (rickjazz.com does a redirect).