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 play

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.