Jason Hunter: An American Trumpet Player in Estonia Performing at the “Rīgas Ritmi” Festival with his Baltic Quartet

Jason Hunter is an American trumpet player who lives in Estonia. On July 8 of this year, he will perform at the “Rīgas Ritmi” festival, where he will play as part of his “Baltic Quartet” together with Estonian saxophonist Alan Kaljasti, Latvian “Hammond” organist Ati Anderson and Lithuanian drummer Augustus Baronas, presenting the “ImagiNation” album.

The interview was published in cooperation with the “Rīgas Ritmi” festival.

The concert will take place on “Jersika Stage” in the performing arts center “Noass” in AB dam. In the meantime, we asked Jason to fill in something similar to a book of memories, which we call this time “Jazz book” and which we ask other representatives of the current jazz generation in Latvia and the Baltics to do as well.

What is jazz to you?

Jazz is one of the most inspiring art forms that is still alive and will continue to live as long as people want a place to collectively create music while expressing their individual ideas and perspective. Done right, it’s a great practice in democracy through the arts.

What inspired you to become a jazz musician?

Exposure to the music and sound of Louis Armstrong, the way he dressed, danced, and countless amazing musicians in the so-called early period of jazz. It allowed me to see the world in a positive and artistic light.

And where is jazz going?

I feel like jazz has so much more to explore, but right now I think melodic improvisation is becoming popular again.

What’s the best thing to expect from a jazz concert?

Leaving the concert with high spirits and an understanding not only of the joys but also of the difficulties of life and how to deal with it all in a subtle way.

How to achieve the feeling of free flight on stage?

A good connection with all band members and attention to the audience and repertoire can create a fantastic experience on stage.

Is it always easy for you to throw yourself into the vortex of jazz playing and is it always easy to get out of it and back into the real world?

It is not always easy; much like life itself. There are good days, bad days and great days. But I believe there is always room to learn and grow as a musician and as a person.

What is the strangest thing that has happened to you while performing?

There have been some weird moments, but the one that sticks out the most for me is a trumpet jam during the climax of my solo at a pretty big gig. The band was on a roll and I went for a loud and powerful phrase, but no sound came out of my instrument…

Who would you like to record an album with or at least jam with?

I would love to record and/or jam with the great drummer Gregory Hutchinson.

Where do you get inspiration for creating new music?

Of many things; for example, from a life experience or a simple melody or beat that I hear in a random place or that is swirling around in my head. But most of all, I am always deeply inspired by countless great musicians who have come before me.

Is there a lot of jazz in Estonia?

This small country has a large jazz community that is very supportive and always eager to expand their understanding and belief in this music. Great festivals are organized and great talents are brought in to perform for the people of Estonia.

Is there such an Estonian jazz sound?

I think so. I think it’s very unique and I think it’s wonderfully intellectual and descriptive of the Estonian experience.

What would you wish and recommend for the “Rīgas Ritmi” festival?

Let all schedules and reception be respectful of the artist as well as the audience. Another late night jam session would be a fantastic thing!