Outstanding young jazz musician Louis Dowdeswell in NZ

Top British Trumpeter is Poster Boy for Youth

Jazz has become the most popular musical genre in New Zealand schools.

More schools nationwide have jazz or concert bands than orchestras or even choirs.

With that in mind jazz impresario, Rodger Fox, is bringing to New Zealand an outstanding British jazz musician who, less than 10 years ago, was playing in a school combo and then graduated to the National Youth Jazz Orchestra where he played lead trumpet.

Louis Dowdeswell has now performed with a number of the world’s top artists including Michael Buble, he’s played in the X Factor Big Band, can list an impressive number of West End musical credits, he’s a sought after session musician and last year released his debut album.

Louis Dowdeswell has done it while still in his 20s and Rodger Fox wants to impress on young musicians that they can achieve all that with the same dedication and talent. Louis is one of three international artists who’ll embark on a national tour late May and early June.

Louis, drummer Gregg Bissonette and vocalist Glenn Walters will perform with the Rodger Fox Big Band in six North and South Island centres including the Wellington Memorial Theatre, Victoria University, on May 26 and the Bruce Mason Centre on May 29.

As part of the national tour Rodger has arranged for workshops and masterclasses in the major centres.

“Louis will attract a different age group in performance and will appeal to young students who, when they see what he can do, will see their future in him,” Rodger says.

“Among his many talents is that he has an octave higher than most players and he demonstrates that whenever he plays.”

Celebrated American trumpeter, Wayne Bergeron from California, has mentored Louis, teaching him everything he needs to know including an incredible breathing technique and the ability to play the high register.

In his brief but impressive career, Louis has performed with Al Jarreau, Michael Buble, Peter Andre, Josh Groban and Alfie Bowe. He’s taken part in a BBC Proms concert at the Royal Albert Hall, recorded as a session musician in such world renowned studios as Abbey Road, Air Lyndhurst, Angel Studios and Maida Vale, played for such West End shows as Aladdin, Motown, Guys And Dolls, Barnum, Last Tango and 42nd Street and released his debut album of movie themes.

“Louis Dowdeswell plays the high Cs as well as our America’s Cup crew sails them,” Rodger Fox comments.

Louis Dowdeswell, Gregg Bissonette and Glenn Walters plus the Rodger Fox Big Band play at the Wellington Memorial Theatre, Victoria University at 8pm on May 26 and the Bruce Mason Centre at 8pm on May 29.

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