Review

Gene Hessler
Hey! Mister Horn Blower:

Cincinnati, OH, United States
Publisher: Gene Hessler
Date of Publication: 2009
URL: http://EngraversLine@aol.com

280 pages

Primary Genre: Study Material - book

Gene Hessler’s autobiography entitled Hey! Mister Horn Blower represents a personal and well-documented account of his career as a professional trombonist. His career began in the fading shadows of the big band era and blossomed in New York City at the height of the “Great White Way” and the “Be-bop” period. Growing up in Cincinnati, Gene entered the music scene where idols such as Glenn Miller and Tommy Dorsey provided the inspiration for him to pursue a career in music. As with many musicians of this era, his talents and dreams led him to New York City where he was in high demand as a first call, freelance trombonist in jazz, be-bop, Broadway shows and symphonic venues. He was, in fact, one of the most important players in New York City for many years.

Gene kept meticulous records in written and photographic form over his entire career, which is reflected in this 280 plus page chronicle of his life. The book is a valuable historical resource depicting his life from his musical roots to his post-musical career as one of America’s preeminent and most honored numismatist! The book is easy to read and will hopefully inspire young musicians to document their careers with the knowledge that every concert, lesson, and musical event is worth remembering. Hey! Mister Horn Blower is available for $25 from Gene Hessler at P.O. Box 31144, Cincinnati, OH 45231. Send email inquiries to: engraversline@aol.com. There will be no postage charge for readers of the ITA Journal.

-Philip Jameson 
Professor Emeritus, University of Georgia