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In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, we are thrilled to welcome the incredibly talented Bill Hayes. With an illustrious career that has spanned decades, Bill shares his journey from a young music enthusiast to a celebrated Broadway musician. Tune in as we delve into:
Broadway Career: Bill Hayes discusses his extensive Broadway career, maintaining a balance while working with renowned artists like Liza Minnelli, Barbra Streisand, and Frank Sinatra.
Early Music Interests: Starting with piano lessons in kindergarten, Bill's passion for music grew as he got interested in drums during junior high. He formed his first band, "Barcelona Brass," inspired by Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass.
High School and Beyond: Bill studied under Alan Dawson in Boston during high school and later attended Hart School of Music, where he learned from notable musicians like Gary Burton and Al Lipak.
Transition to Broadway: Bill describes his move to New York, initially facing uncertainty but soon finding opportunities to sub in Broadway pits, eventually leading to his own chairs.
Challenges and Adaptations: Hear about Bill's experiences adapting to technological changes in Broadway pits, from acoustic settings to using in-ear monitors and flat screens.
Diverse Musical Styles: Bill emphasizes the importance of versatility in Broadway, switching between various musical styles quickly, and how this skill is valuable when playing with different artists.
Networking and Subbing: Bill advises aspiring Broadway musicians to start by subbing, meeting established players, and building a network as crucial steps for getting and maintaining work on Broadway.
Maintaining Musicianship: Learn about the importance of staying in shape, both musically and physically, to avoid injuries and maintain high performance levels throughout a long career.
Career Longevity and Flexibility: Bill reflects on the unpredictability of Broadway careers, the importance of staying flexible, taking opportunities as they come, and continuously learning and adapting.
Bill Hayes' career has taken him around the globe, performing with legends like Barbra Streisand, Liza Minnelli, Frank Sinatra, and Audra McDonald. His international tours have included destinations from Paris to Uruguay to Tokyo. Bill has recorded three albums with Streisand, six with Minnelli, and collaborated on projects with Sinatra, Rufus Wainwright, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Meredith Monk, Maria Schneider, Gerry Niewood, and Lea DeLaria.
His musical versatility is a hallmark of his career, demonstrated by his diverse collaborations. From sharing the stage with KORN on MTV Unplugged to performing with Spiritualized at Radio City Music Hall, Bill has worked with musical icons like Aretha Franklin, Kenny Rogers, Ray Charles, Marvin Hamlisch, and Art Garfunkel. Bill's Broadway contributions are equally impressive, with chairs in over 60 Broadway shows and recordings of numerous cast albums. His television appearances span five continents, showcasing his global influence.
Bill Hayes proudly endorses Innovative Percussion and Paiste Cymbals.
Don't miss this insightful conversation with one of Broadway's finest musicians!
Clayton Craddock is the founder of Broadway Drumming 101, a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing specialized mentorship and a meticulously curated collection of resources.
Clayton’s Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include: tick, tick...BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day At Emerson's Bar and Grill, and Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He has subbed for shows like Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, Spongebob Squarepants - The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Boyle, Norm Lewis, Denise Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.
Clayton is a proud endorser of Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.
For more about Clayton Craddock, click here: www.claytoncraddock.com
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Podcast #78 - Bill Hayes