Alex Norris: “Be Good, Be Professional, Be Nice”

Trumpeter Alex Norris, a distinguished figure in the music world, delves into the intricacies of navigating a successful career and imparts invaluable advice to emerging musicians. Drawing on his journey from graduating Peabody to a thriving 30-year tenure in the NYC jazz scene, Norris reflects on the shifting landscape of the music industry. He acknowledges the rapid technological changes influencing practice methods and underscores the enduring importance of networking.

Norris advocates for musicians to commence their careers with the mindset of a first jam session, emphasizing the need for not only musical excellence but also social acumen, professionalism, and adaptability. Reflecting on his experiences, he breaks down his approach into three pillars: “be good, be professional, and be nice.” Punctuality, flexibility, and a proactive attitude toward gig attendance are among his key principles.

Having spent time in Miami pursuing a doctorate and teaching at Frost, Norris emphasizes the significance of versatility in New York, referring to musicians as “versatile specialists.” While known primarily as a jazz soloist, he discusses his diverse skill set, including sight-reading, lead trumpet, and Latin music. He humbly acknowledges continuous learning, particularly in the realm of Latin music, and expresses gratitude for the opportunities to collaborate with esteemed artists in the genre.

Discussing his recent album, “Fleet From the Heat,” Norris portrays it as a non-sentimental love letter to New York. The album, a celebration of ten years with his quintet, features all-original compositions. He delves into the inspiration behind each track, with a significant portion dedicated to the “Original Pandemic Suite,” a humorous take on the myriad artistic responses to the pandemic.

In his extensive sideman career, contributing to over 90 albums, Norris expresses a profound enjoyment in bringing other artists’ projects to life. He finds satisfaction in the challenges posed by diverse musical demands. When reflecting on collaborations with luminaries like Ron Carter, Brad Mehldau, and Maria Schneider, Norris emphasizes the importance of listening, creatively contributing, and ultimately making the bandleader’s music resonate authentically.

Concluding with insights into his practice routine, Norris highlights the significance of a robust warm-up and maintenance routine. Drawing from teachings of mentors like Wayne Cameron and Laurie Frink, he incorporates lip slurs, long tones, and tongue exercises. With a dynamic calendar of performances spanning various styles, Norris’s practice routine serves as a versatile preparation for the array of musical challenges he encounters.