The Louis Dowdeswell Podcast

Amazing to sit down and have an honest chat with the great Adam Rapa. We have got to know each other a little over the past year, and every conversation has been incredibly stimulating for me. This one is raw - enjoy!

"I should give the best of my life... for them." In this episode of the Louis Dowdeswell Podcast, I sit down with one of the most iconic trumpet players on the planet: Eric Miyashiro.   While Eric is world-renowned for his "screamer" high notes and his time leading the bands of Buddy Rich, Woody Herman, and Maynard Ferguson, this conversation goes far beyond the mechanics of the instrument.   Eric...

I'm honoured to welcome Arturo Sandoval to the podcast as he shares how confidence, not perfection, wins over audiences — on stage and in life. From escaping Cuba to winning a Grammy on his first night in the U.S., his story shows how resilience builds true confidence.

Discover the remarkable story of Mike Lovatt—one of the UK’s most respected trumpet players. From a devastating cycling accident that nearly ended his career at 14, to performing with the John Wilson Orchestra, Jesse Norman, and leading his own Brass Pack ensemble, Mike shares powerful lessons on motivation, sound, and the soul of every note.   Perfect for brass players, musicians, and anyone seek...

Trumpet legend John Thirkell joins Louis Dowdeswell to share stories from Buddy Rich to Jamiroquai, plus insights on practice, confidence & business.   ⏱️ Timestamp Highlights 00:00 – Facing fears & growth as a musician 02:10 – Introducing John Thirkell: trumpet & flugelhorn legend 06:45 – Discovering the trumpet at school in the North East 14:20 – Failing auditions but finding another...

In this episode of The Louis Dowdeswell Podcast, I sit down with the phenomenal saxophone player and fellow music school alum, Sean Payne. We go deep—from our early gigs and pub chats to intense topics like perfect pitch, internalising music, composition philosophies, circular breathing, and the psychology of practice. Sean shares what it means to be a "serial learner" and why musical breakthrough...

In this very special conversation, trumpet legend Simon Gardner opens up to Louis about his personal spiritual experience during the final weeks of his late wife's life. What starts as a simple chat turns into one of the most powerful, vulnerable, and hope-filled stories we've ever shared on this channel. Simon talks about: Coping with terminal illness as a partner Going sober through grief Witnes...

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...

Join Louis and Sam Walters (founder of Vibrantics) as they dive into belief, humility, and storytelling in creative growth. They discuss fear, taking leaps, building the Trumpet Academy, and why humility—not ego—unlocks real progress. Perfect for musicians, creators, and entrepreneurs seeking clarity and inspiration. 0:00 – Welcome & Introduction Louis introduces Sam, the first non-musician gu...

Trumpet legend Bobby Shew joins me for one of the most honest, eye-opening conversations I’ve ever had. From his early days sneaking into jazz clubs, to bleeding on stage with Buddy Rich, to walking away from the L.A. studio scene—Bobby shares it all.   We talk about: Finding your voice as a musician The myth of perfection Why most players overblow The importance of internal rhythm and relative pi...

In this episode, Louis sits down with his longtime friend and trumpet powerhouse Ryan Quigley. Broadcasting from Prozone Music, they unpack Ryan’s remarkable journey from growing up in Glasgow’s East End to touring with legends like Quincy Jones and Robbie Williams. With stories of family, fiery playing, and finding musical identity, Ryan opens up about the path that shaped him—from salsa nights i...

Step into the world of Norwegian jazz with acclaimed trumpeter Frank Brodahl as he shares his profound insights on musical intention and artistic expression. In this enlightening conversation with host Louis Dowdeswell, Frank opens up about his journey from discovering jazz through his father's vinyl collection to becoming a pivotal figure in the European jazz scene. Frank delves deep into: • The...

My guest today is the great trumpeter, psychologist, and golfer, Greg Spence. Greg currently lives in Coolum Beach, just north of Brisbane, Australia, and has been a transformative figure in the world of brass and wind playing. Through his online platform Mystery to Mastery, he’s helped thousands of musicians develop better technique, overcome performance issues, and reconnect with their instrumen...

The first episode kicks off with the incredible Wayne Bergeron! A little over a decade ago, I met my trumpet hero, so it seemed like a good time to reflect on that and announce my new podcast with him. We discuss how our journeys crossed, the past 10 years of our relationship, a little on the terrifying Southern CA fires and then a nice juicy series of questions that I came up with, discussing all...