Rich Wetzel

Tacoma-based trumpeter Rich Wetzel well known as a powerfuland high-energy lead player and high-note specialist. His playing has received accolades from no less an authority than trumpet legend Wayne Bergeron, and his name appears on Arturo Sandoval’s list of influential trumpet players

A much in-demand section leader, Rich has played for such national acts as The Four Tops, the Temptations, the Spinners, the Coasters and the Platters, Rich also leads many of his own projects, including the Blue Moon Howlers, a sensational swing, jazz and R&B revue and the Groovin’ Higher Orchestra, a powerful 15-piece big band that brings the classic music of legendary leaders like Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman, Count Basie and Buddy Rich back to life.

Wetzel says, “This group is my dream band, the one I have dreamed of having all my life.