Notable New Mexicans

Bobby Shew

Bobby Shew

Born In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Bobby Shew began playing the trumpet at ten. After a stint in the US Armed Forces, he joined the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, and in quick succession, worked with the Woody Herman Band, Della Reese and Buddy Rich's Big Band.
In 1972 he decided to make a move to the Los Angeles. There, he spent time with Jazz legends Art Pepper, Bud Shank, Horace Silver Quintet, Louie Bellson, Ed Shaughnessy, Benny Goodman, Maynard Ferguson, Neal Hefti and others.

In addition to being a sideman, Bobby also became a band leader recording many of his own albums. One album, 'Outstanding In His Field' was nominated for a Grammy in 1980, while 'Heavy Company' was awarded the Jazz Album Of The Year in 1983.
Bobby also found a great deal of studio work on TV shows like 'Hawaii 5-O', 'Streets Of San Francisco', 'Bob Newhart', 'Mary Tyler Moore', 'Midnight Special', 'Don Kirschner Rock Concert', 'Happy Days', 'Laverne And Shirley', and 'Eight Is Enough.' His work on soundtracks includes 'Grease I and II', 'Rocky I and II', 'Six-Pack', 'The Muppet Movie', 'The Drivers', and 'Taxi'.

Today, in addition to a busy performing and private teaching schedule, Bobby is actively involved in the educational system, conducting clinics and master classes at high schools and college campuses all over the world. Bobby has also been active on the Board of Directors of the International Trumpet Guild, and has acted as National Trumpet Chairman for the International Association of Jazz Educator's for 16 years. He authors numerous articles of educational interest in various trade magazines, all translated into several languages for worldwide distribution. He has even had a few minor acting roles in movies and TV shows.
He continues to tour internationally and to produce and record excellent music. His recent albums include 'Playing with Fire'(w/Tom Harrell), 'Heavyweights'(w/Carl Fontana), and Salsa Caliente. In addition, for other labels, Bobby has released the the highly regarded CD recorded with the The Metropole Orchestra, and a double-CD set for Seabreeze Records of The Music of John Harmon.

Bobby Shew never stops using his remarkable insight, sensitivity and creativity to inspire the next generation of jazz players and teachers.

He continues to live and work in New Mexico.