In this powerful episode of the Louis Dowdeswell Podcast, legendary British lead trumpet player Simon Gardner shares untold stories from decades on the London music scene. From playing with Derek Watkins to discovering Maynard Ferguson, Simon reveals his journey from school band to West End pit, along with heartfelt advice for the next generation. Whether you're chasing a Super C or just trying to survive 8 shows a week, this chat is packed with practical wisdom, hilarious tour stories, and brass geekery you won’t hear anywhere else. Topics Include: Simon’s first trumpet—won by singing a scale Playing along to Glenn Miller, Sinatra, and Maynard Learning by ear vs traditional practice Recording tips for section blend & feel The reality of West End gigs & balancing family life Creating the Super C Big Band in tribute to Derek Watkins 🎧 Listen now and get inspired to embrace your own sound—with all its imperfections. 🕒 Timestamps / Highlights:00:00 – Intro & warm welcome to Simon Gardner03:00 – Simon’s hilarious first encounter with the trumpet07:40 – Learning lead parts from Glenn Miller LPs11:45 – Hearing Maynard Ferguson for the first time: mind blown15:30 – Chasing sound over range: lessons from Conrad Gozzo21:20 – Playing high vs. playing musically26:00 – Derek Watkins stories & the birth of the Super C Big Band32:15 – Teaching at RAM: Louis & Simon’s candid lesson memories36:50 – Recording tips: perfection vs humanity in music42:30 – “Play behind the beat”—but not too behind!47:10 – Big band timing, blend & the illusion of perfection51:50 – Simon’s solo album & multitracking brass sections55:00 – Time, tone & why sound is your musical fingerprint59:30 – West End life: the reality behind 8 shows a week1:04:00 – The biggest change in the London session scene1:09:20 – Advice to young players: say yes, show up, play everything1:12:00 – Closing thoughts & gratitude 👉 Join the Trumpet Academy: https://www.skool.com/louis-trumpet-a... #TrumpetPodcast #LouisDowdeswell #SimonGardner #LeadTrumpet #BigBandLife #DerekWatkins #MaynardFerguson #WestEndMusician #TrumpetTips #JazzTrumpet #ConradGozzo #MusicIndustryAdvice #RecordingTrumpet #TrumpetSound #SessionMusician #SuperCBigBand #TrumpetLegends #BrassTalk #TrumpetInspiration #PracticeTips