While in school, trumpet was my primary instrument (which I played for 20+ years), and I played Principle or co-principle chair in all bands and orchestras. I also was self-taught on trombone, clarinet & french horn. I began my interest in composing at 13 and was mentored by my band director Kenneth Henderson who himself was a published composer of over 100 band arrangements and instrument instruction books. Although music was not my full time profession, I formed a band booking agency. I also owned and was musical director of a 16 piece professional Big Band playing original swing charts from the 30's & 40's. I also performed with a number of smaller combos for various functions. My repertoire of musical compositions and arranging includes jazz, swing, contemporary orchestrations, church music and pop. I have won awards at state song writing competitions. I stopped writing for a number of years due to time restraints raising a family and working a business career.
Gene Alley, Composer
Biography
While in school, trumpet was my primary instrument (which I played for 20+ years), and I played Principle or co-principle chair in all bands and orchestras. I also was self-taught on trombone, clarinet & french horn. I began my interest in composing at 13 and was mentored by my band director Kenneth Henderson who himself was a published composer of over 100 band arrangements and instrument instruction books. Although music was not my full time profession, I formed a band booking agency. I also owned and was musical director of a 16 piece professional Big Band playing original swing charts from the 30's & 40's. I also performed with a number of smaller combos for various functions. My repertoire of musical compositions and arranging includes jazz, swing, contemporary orchestrations, church music and pop. I have won awards at state song writing competitions. I stopped writing for a number of years due to time restraints raising a family and working a business career.