Kenny Rampton on the Roles of Trumpet Players in Big Bands

Lead Trumpet, Second Trumpet, Third Trumpet, Fourth Trumpet. All are vital, but what are their specific roles and responsibilities? Jazz at Lincoln Center's Second Trumpet player, Kenny Rampton, lays it out for you.

[@jaymeachum]

Kenny, I love the video and all you guys do for jazz ed. I have one question. When (if ever) did 2nd trumpet become the split lead? Only curious, just because I was taught 2nd and 4th solo and 3rd was traditionally the split lead. I can't be 100% positive, that's just what I was taught. Thanks!

[@TAHerrmann1]

Thank you! Well said. You play second so you must be a great lead. As Aristotle said, "He who cannot be a good follower, cannot be a good leader."

[@doveharp]

I was practicing much on the trombone for a year and a half before graduating from high school. I soon found that a four piece rock band was considered good enough, making it very difficult for a 4 piece band with trumpet bass and drums and piano to get work.

[@jambajoby32]

Woohoo Kisor is incredible! Nice video, Mr Rampton

[@danielcruz8347]

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[@AustinCasey]

Cool. Next yall should do one of Carlos Henriquez on Latin & African Rhythms. -Austin

[@tpte]

So the lead trumpet plays lead and the rest follow. Got it.

[@iLIKEediting]

do one with vincent, chris, or elliot on playing tricky sam plunger stuff!

[@EssentiallyEllington]

Austin, we've got Carlos scheduled, and we will certainly get him talking about it!