Growing up in the 60s and 70s, I was influenced by everything from the hippie movement to disco...I started playing the trumpet at age 8, and my biggest influence was Maynard Ferguson. Like many young trumpeters, I wanted to play in the upper register like many of the pro's of the day. I wanted to be able to "squeal" just like Maynard did, and play the lead in my high school and college Jazz Bands. This video is vintage 70s stuff, with this particular concert performance taking place in 1975. Although the DVD was produced in 2005, the video and audio technology used to record it were still from the 70s, thus the quality is VERY poor. If you want to experience high register trumpet playing and supreme jazz music, this is a great performance to have. But understand it has very poor audio and video quality and was made on a very very low budget. I would say that it is worth watching just to see the hair and clothes styles of the day... Oh yeah, and the music is fantastic. There was only one Maynard Ferguson. And, this DVD captures his lively personality and flair for performing. There are some very good performances from his band in this concert as well. For quality of performance, I'd give it an 8 our of 10. For quality of DVD production, I'd give it a 3.5 out of 10. I hope this helps. Terry B.Read full review
It is a treat to see Maynard displaying his mastery over this instrument. My father, a former trumpeter is quoted as saying "Maynard Ferguson hits notes on the trumpet that are mechanically impossible to play". He really is magnificent. And I am not what you would call a "jazz enthusiast" - but Maynard, oh my goodness, what can I say. THe dvd has the songs , Mac Artur Park, Chameleon, La Fiesta, I Can't Get Started, Gospel John, (You have to hear this to believe it) and wrapping up the performance is, Got the Spirit. The concert footage is about 1 hour long. But there is more for you Maynard nuts to enjoy here as well. The DVD extras menu has "At the Top" archives which is a photo gallery, a depostion called "Being there with Greg Dispenza" , who gives an insiders look of what it was like to be there at the show as he reminisces about the evening and concert that night. Next on the "Extras" is an audio only recording of three songs recorded at a 1975 Carnegie Music Hall Concert. They are, La Fiesta, Don't let the Sun Go down on Me, and Tommy Medley. On this section of the extras there is also a depostion given by Bud Jackson, whom recorded the concert. Bud gives his own personal views of why Maynard is his favorite trumpeter and explains how he got to record this event. The only down side to this dvd is that the sound quality is not up to todays standards. But it is clear enough to enjoy. Also, the shots of the audience sometimes annoy me. I'd rather the camera stay fixed on the band. But it is fun sometimes to note the expression on people as Maynard belts it out. You know what I mean.... Well, if you like Maynard, then don't delay. Buy this DVD today and pick up an extra one for a friend. "LONG LIVE MAYNARD FERGUSON"Read full review
Another passing era recorded years ago, but My Main Man Maynard with his Gold Trumpet @ His Very Best Big Band Performance. Wonderful Trumpet Section! Any former trumpeter like I was, should have at least one DVD to enjoy that displays a true talent in our past. Price, Quality & Condition Excellent!!!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I like all of the Maynard items, but this is shot during a time when he was at the right age and was kinda passing the torch. TO hear the range on my BLUE RAY only made him come back to life for me as I am a trumpet player. He plays like no other and this DVD only brings that case home. It is raw footage and is a true live concert. Any Maynard fan must have this live dvd.
This DVD video shows Maynard Ferguson in his prime, and every song is a must-listen song.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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