Ian McDougall: The Trombone Maestro
Early Life and Beginnings
Ian McDougall was born on June 14, 1938, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He grew up in Victoria, where he began his musical journey at the tender age of 11. Initially, he joined the Victoria Boy’s Band with the aspiration of becoming a drummer. However, his father’s advice led him to choose the trombone, a decision that would shape his future career.
The Journey to Great Britain
At the age of 22, McDougall left Victoria to tour in Great Britain with the John Dankworth Band. This experience broadened his horizons and exposed him to the international music scene. After two years, he returned to Canada in 1962 and began a lengthy career as a freelance player.
Academic Pursuits and Pacific Salt
Upon his return to Vancouver, McDougall pursued his academic interests at the University of British Columbia, earning a Bachelor of Music in 1966, and a Master of Music in 1970. In the same year, he co-founded the fusion group Pacific Salt with five of Vancouver’s premier jazz musicians. The group recorded three LPs and was active until the early 1980s.
Move to Toronto and The Boss Brass
In 1973, McDougall and his wife, violinist Barbara McDougall, moved to Toronto and began a studio career. It was during this time that he joined Rob McConnell’s Grammy and JUNO award-winning group, “The Boss Brass”. He became a featured soloist and played with the group until 1991.
Contributions to Classical Music
McDougall has made significant contributions to classical music, composing and arranging pieces for various orchestras. His works have been performed by the CBC Vancouver Orchestra, the Vancouver Chamber Choir, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, among others.
Teaching Career and Recognition
McDougall taught trombone, jazz studies, and orchestration at the University of Victoria from 1988, retiring as Professor Emeritus in 2003. In recognition of his contributions to music, McDougall was appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada in April 2008.
Current Endeavors
Today, McDougall continues to play and teach in Victoria. He has released several albums, including his ‘signature’ CD, “The Very Thought of You”, which features beautiful ballads from the 40s and 50s, showcasing his trombone skills alongside a large string orchestra and jazz quartet.
- “Songs & Arias” (Ian McDougall, 1997): This album showcases McDougall’s versatility as a musician, featuring a mix of jazz standards and original compositions.
- “Nights in Vancouver” (Cellar Live, 2004): Recorded live, this album captures the energy and spontaneity of McDougall’s performances.
- “In a Sentimental Mood” (Barbarian, 2005): McDougall’s interpretation of jazz classics shines through in this album.
- “No Passport Required” (Barbarian, 2007): This album features a collection of McDougall’s original compositions, showcasing his skills as a composer.
- “Burnin’ the House Down” (Barbarian, 2008): A high-energy album that highlights McDougall’s dynamic playing style.
- “Dry With a Twist” (Ian McDougall, 2008): This album features a mix of McDougall’s original compositions and jazz standards.
- “12-Tet Live” (Barbarian, 2012): Recorded live, this album captures the raw energy of McDougall’s 12-piece ensemble.
- “The Very Thought of You” (CD Baby, 2012): This album features beautiful ballads from the 40s and 50s, showcasing McDougall’s trombone skills alongside a large string orchestra and jazz quartet.
- “The Jazz Suite” (1967): This is one of McDougall’s extended works for big band, commissioned by the CBC.
- “The Vancouver Suite” (1971): Another one of McDougall’s extended works for big band, also commissioned by the CBC.
