I’M HAVING A BLAST  

Magnificent start to the year, thank you. Just so much work on. It’s hard to even recall all the many highlights I have had so far. So many awesome gigs in succession since the start of the year.

In my last newsletter I mentioned how I would like to do a few less profile type gigs. You know I love the big shows and that’s what we all hope for, but I do like the idea of mixing that up with a more quieter type of performance in the corner of a lovely venue playing some background music while patrons enjoyed the surroundings, fine beverages and food.

You have even delivered on that, with some lovely venues giving me the opportunity to add to the atmosphere. From classy lounge bars in Orakei and West Auckland, and heritage homesteads in Hillsborough, to the Hamilton Casino. John McGough the TRUMPETGUY has brought his smooth brass sounds and vocals and added a real ambiance to these venues. Why don’t you join them. I would love to help bring some magic and enjoyment to your bars, clubs, vineyards and more.

This mixed with the party nights with dancing at some of Auckland and Hamilton’s most buzzing chartered clubs. I am having a blast! Huge thanks also to Ellerslie and Alexandra Park for their seasons of top class racing and entertainment. Attracting thousands to their special race meetings.

April this year we had our National Brass Band Championships in Wellington. It’s always amazing being involved in these contests and I had the opportunity to judge some of New Zealand’s finest young talents in the junior sections and played for Tauranga City Brass in the B Grade section of the contest.

After their 102 years in existence, the A Grade title was taken out by North Shore Brass of Auckland under the direction of Nigel Weeks. I have been lucky enough to be in Nigel’s bands as a member of the Dalewool Auckland Brass, the NBS Nelson City Brass and also the National Band of New Zealand where Nigel got the band to second in the World Championships in Holland. I knew North Shore were in for something special and both the players and Nigel delivered some unbelievable performances.

Since the contest I have also been back with the NBS Nelson City Brass who recently put on an enjoyable performance for the people of Nelson in the Nelson Cathedral. This concert was under the direction of Mark Carter, Sub Principal Trumpet of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. For an entertainer that usually works solo, I feel privileged to be on the same stage as all these talented people.

So enough of the past. What’s there to look forward to.

I have been invited back to host the Readers Digest Trusted Brands Awards at the Hyatt Hotel this month. More live shows and trumpeting for the Auckland Trotting Club. Also DJing for them on other race nights I am not playing live. A lot more chartered club gigs, maybe another visit to Sky City Casino Hamilton and a tour to Wellington to perform at some of their top clubs with New Zealand’s No 1 Country Music Tribute Artist Wayne Heath. Get ready Wellington we are coming for you in June.

The lead up to Christmas is such an exciting time and it starts from about October. I’d love to play a part in your lead up to Christmas but you better book early. If this year is any indication so far, the TRUMPETGUY will be everywhere. Make sure it’s at your occasion.

To finish, one of the most enjoyable jobs I do is playing in many beautiful retirement villages for their independent residents. It’s like doing concerts in resorts and I just love it. One of them is a village close to my home and my heart. Miriam Corban Village in Henderson. Mainly because every time I’ve played there my dear mother in law Sharon was sitting in the front row with her million dollar smile and quietly singing along to my tunes. My next gig there is not far away and sadly this time she will not be in the front row seat. I was introduced to Sharon through my beautiful wife Cathy some fourteen or so years ago and my heart goes out to the family.

RIP Sharon Ryan. I’ll be playing an up tempo tribute to you at Miriam Corban next time. I know you would not approve of any sad songs or fuss.

Your crowd, patrons, friends and family work hard and deserve a great night out. They want to be entertained. Do it with John McGough the TRUMPETGUY.

Book now. If you don’t, someone else will.

Until next time…..It’s bye bye from the TRUMPETGUY

John McGough