TRUMPET
Trumpeter/Composer Dave Ballou has released ten CD’s as a leader or co-leader. His most recent, Quadrants for solo trumpet (pfMentum, CD 113) showcase his virtuosic trumpet technique and ability to sustain long form improvisations. Ballou has performed and recorded with a vast array of artists such as the Lebanese oud player, Rabih Abou-Kahlil, legendary jazz musicians Clark Terry, Sheila Jordan, Dewey redman, Andrew Hill and Dave Liebman. He has been a member of several big bands including Michael Formanek’s Ensemble Kolossus, John Hollenbeck’s Large Ensemble, Maria Schneider, Woody Herman’s Young Thundering Herd and The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra under the direction of Buddy Morrow. Ballou’s work with the late Gunther Schuller include trumpet soloist for the authorized recording of Journey into Jazz with the Boston Modern Orchestra Project and the world premiere of Schuller’s Encounters. He was also an orchestra member for the Tony Award winning Broadway revival of 42nd St. (2001-2004).
His compositions have been performed and recorded by the Meridian Arts Ensemble, Trumpeter Jon Nelson, French hornist Adam Unsworth and the TILT Brass Ensemble.
He earned a Bachelor of Music (magna cum laude) from Berklee College of Music in 1986 and a Master of Arts from the University of New Hampshire in 1992. His principal teachers were Julio Tancredi, Herb Pomeroy, Greg Hopkins, Laurie Frink, Clark Terry, Hal Crook, George Garzone, Joe Maneri, Keith Polk and Paul Caputo.
Ballou is a Professor of Music at Towson University and the leader of the Jazz and Commercial music division. He is director of the Bill and Helen Murray Jazz Residency and the Improvisation ensemble.