Conversation
By combining the dynamic sound of two trumpets, horn, trombone and tuba with the energy of guitar, keyboards and percussion, Conversation is one of the most innovative brass ensemble on the music scene today. The many styles of Conversation range from bold and exciting to lyrical and reflective.
Conversation formed two years ago and is based in Nashville where seven of the eight members live.
With years of experience behind them, members of Conversation have worked with some of the hottest entertainers of our time. Jim Williamson has performed and recorded with B.B. King and the Muscle Shoals Horns. He has appeared on TV specials with Reba McIntyre, Louise Mandrell and Lee Greenwood along with being professor of trumpet at The University of Tennessee. He is one of the primary writers of original compositions performed by Conversation.
Richard Aspinwall is a guitarist, songwriter, producer and engineer who has contributed to three Grammy-winning albums, as well as several No. 1 Billboard records. Garth Brooks, Chet Atkins, Nanci Griffith and Emmylou Harris are only a few of the artists with whom Aspinwall has had the opportunity to work.
Jeff Lloyd was a busy free-lance musician in Phoenix, Ariz., before moving to Nashville, Tenn. Lloyd is now an active studio and club percussionist who is also busy playing shows and traveling with various artists in the Nashville area.
Vinnie Ciesielski is a trumpeter in great demand in Nashville. He has toured with Lyle Lovett and Shelby Lynne along with many TV appearances with both bands. Ciesielski can be heard on many TV and radio jingles as well as Tanya Tucker's latest CD (soon to be released).
Trombonist Barry Green has performed with Amy Grant, Natalie Cole, Reba McIntyre, Wynonna, Coca-Cola and National Geographic.
Horn player Ed Nagel spent 10 years with the U.S. Air Force Band of Flight. He is a regular performer with the Springfield, Ohio, and Lima, Ohio, Symphonies and has performed with The Cleveland Jazz Orchestra. Nagel also has performed with Glen Campbell, Andy Williams, Mac Davis and Bobby Shew.
Steve Willets, a jazz pianist, has worked in various clubs and pit orchestras, and on TV shows and cruise ships. For the past 10 years, he has been the conductor at Opryland USA.
Joe Murphy is a studio musician on both tuba and bass. He has toured and made TV appearances as bass player with composer/artist Mike Reid. He is an instrumentalist at Opryland. Several of his arrangements and compositions are performed by Conversation.
Conversation places great emphasis on the education of young musicians through clinics, master classes and residencies. They not only share their knowledge and expertise but enjoying speaking one on one with students, providing a positive role model.