Local artist profile: Henry Livingstone

THIS week we speak with trumpeter Henry Livingstone.

What initially motivated you to have a go at the trumpet?

When I was nine years old, I had known my grandpa to play trombone and perform with the Bendigo Concert Band. As a role model to me, he inspired me to take up music, so one day in the driveway, upon saying goodbye, I said to Pa, “I want to play the trumpet”.

He was so ecstatic that he bought me one about a week later and we drove up to Tooleybuc to pick it up.

He started giving me lessons on the basics of the instrument, and once I gained confidence, he introduced me to the Marist Academy of Brass under direction of Claire McLean, where I continued to develop ensemble skills and musical knowledge, and met a new group of friends with whom I gained a lot of special memories.

How would you describe your style?

I’ve had the privilege to play music in greatly varying settings. Jazz ensembles, brass bands, orchestras, and big bands. My practice is mostly working on tone production, dexterity and, more recently, jazz improvisation. My broad range of musical experience gives me an appreciation of all music styles and genres.

Which other musicians particularly inspire you?

A great inspiration to me recently has been Chet Baker. His tone colour on trumpet and voice speak so gently and I love his improvisation. Another famous trumpeter who I’ve had the pleasure to meet at a school workshop was James Morrison. He made the point that listening to great musicians should be part of your practice. One of my favourite groups to listen to is The Cat Empire.

What are some highlights you have from your journey?

My musical life in Bendigo has been a fantastic journey filled with magnificent opportunities and wonderful friends. One performance that I remember with particular pride was at Bendigo’s White Night in 2018. This was my first officially paid gig, in which I got to wear a genuine vintage ANZAC uniform, playing the Last Post from the top of the Soldiers Memorial to accompany a looped, 15-minute projection on the historic building. I played four times in my one-hour shift.

Other great opportunities have come through participating in the Orchestra Victoria On the Move program, going to the National Band Championships with Eaglehawk Brass Band in Brisbane, and accompanying Thomas Haywood, an internationally renowned organist at St Killian’s Church’s 150th anniversary of their organ.

How has your practice been affected by COVID?

During lockdown, of course there were major interruptions to rehearsals and performances with all ensembles. But it also gave me the opportunity to practise at home, working on my basic skills.

How can people check out your work?

You can look up Red Sand Big Band, Bendigo Jazz Club or Eaglehawk Brass Band on Facebook for details of upcoming performances to support local community groups and artists.

What would you say to regional aspiring young musicians who are thinking of having a go at it?

Get yourself an enthusiastic and experienced teacher. My teachers have supported my community involvement and have helped me to explore so many different genres to find what I like. Local community groups are always looking for young musicians to get involved as well, and with practice, it can lead to exciting opportunities.