A lifetime dedicated to music, playing with great international stars like Nat King Cole, Sammy Davis, Judy Garland and Dean Martin, Canadian trombonist, Claude Blouin, shares his passions and most memorable experiences before taking the big step towards retirement. What will he miss the most? What does he love about Ballroom Dancing?
What led to your interests in Ballroom Dancing?
The music, the ladies are beautiful and they present themselves beautifully. I also envy the men that can dance so well and in control.
Have you ever taken any dance lessons?
I took dancing lessons before I started producing albums of Ballroom music so I could really learn about the tempos. I also like percussion a lot, but you really have to know what kind of rhythm to use for cha-cha, fox-trot, mambo, tango, rumba, samba, meringue etc… all the dances.
Do you enjoy dancing?
I do not dance often and I am a beginner, but I like the rumba, fox-trot, samba, meringue, and slow jive. I would like to learn to dance the mambo and am great at dancing to a slow ballad.
Have you ever taken any dance lessons?
I took dancing lessons before I started producing albums of Ballroom music so I could really learn about the tempos. I also like percussion a lot, but you really have to know what kind of rhythm to use for cha-cha, fox-trot, mambo, tango, rumba, samba, meringue etc…all the dances.
Do you enjoy dancing?
I do not dance often and I am a beginner, but I like the rumba, fox-trot, samba, meringue, and slow jive. I would like to learn to dance the mambo and am great at dancing to a slow ballad.
What are some of your other hobbies aside from music and dance?
Swimming, walking and playing pool. I play a little bit of tennis and I like to watch great players, like Pete Sampras. Also, I dig the beaches of Florida and I enjoy documentary of all kinds, like Mega Construction, Bridges, and Buildings.
Do you have any embarrassing moments or funny experiences to share with us?
In my early days, I was involved in producing Ballroom music at a competition in Montreal. In attendance was Mr. John Ponds from England, who had been buying records from me, and was a fan of my music.
I was unaware that there was a special presentation planned for me. Just before the “surprise” announcement, instead of staying seated in my chair, I was standing beside Mr. Ponds who started to tell me about the award. I felt so awkward, out of place and yes, embarrassed! I was not supposed to know about the award!
It was, of course an honour to receive the award by Mr. Ponds and the event organizers.
No, but I like cats and dogs a lot.
What is your favourite piece of music that you have composed?
My slow rumba called Quiet Lagoon. In it I play a trombone solo and I am quiet pleased with it. That piece gives you a good feeling and I would like to see great dancers choreograph to that piece of music - much room for expression!
What inspires you to write your music?
Different times, different moods. When I am writing mambos, I think about certain ladies, the way they move or the way they walk. I'm a dreamer!
Who is your role model?
Mostly musicians, actors and actresses, but there are so many great musicians, Virtuosos in their field. I'm talking about the Jazz field in previous generations; Arturo Sandoval, Urbie Green, and Bill Watrous. I like actors from previous generations also; Burt Lancaster, Henry Fonda, Kirt Douglas and I guess my favourite lady was Doris Day - she sang so good!
How does it feel to be retiring from such a successful career in the music and entertainment industry?
I am not quite retiring yet, but I'm working on it.
What will you miss the most?
Working with the boys in the orchestra and playing for great international stars like Nat King Cole, Sammy Davis, Judy Garland and Dean Martin. I’ll also really miss the Jazz Big Band radio show form Montreal with Jonny Holmes & Art Morrow - that was great!
What are your plans now for your future?
To keep healthy, physically and mentally, and enjoy life.
What is one of your favourite memories as a musician?
When I started to play the trombone. I went to the Conservatory of Music, then moved to Montreal to work the Night Clubs circuit, then television, radio and next I became a professional musician - a dream come true!
Who was your favourite musician to work with or to play alongside?
Teddy Roderman, a trombonist from Toronto. He was a great player! Such a beautiful sound and a great guy!
Do you have any important life lessons to share with others?
Follow your dream, or you'll be sorry you've miss it!
In celebration of Claude Blouin’s retirement, DanceScape is offering a special promotion on Claude Blouin’s Greatest Hits. For more information, visit www.dancescape.com. Check out Claude’s favourite track Quiet Lagoon on his CLAU-VER XX02 Album.