Podcast Summary: All Of It – Featuring Anthony Hervey

Episode: Bandleader And Trumpeteer Anthony Hervey
Host: Alison Stewart
Release Date: August 1, 2025
Duration: Approximately 19 minutes

Introduction

In this engaging episode of ALL OF IT, hosted by Alison Stewart on WNYC, listeners are introduced to Anthony Hervey, an acclaimed jazz trumpeter and composer renowned for his regular performances at Lincoln Center. Praised by jazz legend Wynton Marsalis as "a beautiful trumpet player of the first magnitude," Anthony brings a wealth of experience and passion to the conversation. The episode seamlessly blends insightful dialogue with live musical performances, offering a deep dive into Anthony's musical journey and creative process.

Guest Background and Early Influences

Anthony Hervey shares his roots and the journey that led him to the vibrant cultural hub of Harlem. Originating from Florida, Anthony recounts his move to New York City for school, specifically to attend the prestigious Juilliard School.

"I moved up to New York City for school, so I was at Juilliard, and a lot of musicians actually live uptown, so it was kind of a place that I naturally gravitated towards." (09:28)

Growing up in a musically inclined family, Anthony was the only sibling to pursue the trumpet, diverging from his brothers who played the saxophone. This unique path was influenced by his mother's connection to her late father, Anthony's great-uncle, a trumpet player whose legacy inspired Anthony's own musical pursuits.

"My mom, her grandfather played trumpet. He passed before I was born... my mom made me play trumpet, and I reluctantly agreed to do so, but I didn't know it was going to be something that I fell in love with. And, hey, we're here now." (09:48)

Discovering a Passion for the Trumpet

Anthony vividly recalls the pivotal moment that ignited his passion for the trumpet. In sixth grade, a documentary on Blue Note Records featured a brief but impactful clip of Freddie Hubbard, which left an indelible mark on him.

"I was watching a documentary on Blue Note Records, and a clip of Freddie Hubbard came on. It's like watching Kobe Bryant play basketball. That 20 seconds of him playing is literally why I'm in New York City." (10:36)

This encounter not only solidified his love for the trumpet but also set him on the path to becoming a professional musician.

Musical Education and Growth at Juilliard

Attending Juilliard was a transformative experience for Anthony, both personally and professionally. He emphasizes the importance of the collaborative environment and the rigorous schedule that fostered his growth.

"I grew in a lot of ways being at Juilliard, just being in New York City by myself... surrounded by a lot of incredible musicians at the school. We collectively grew together, hitting sessions late at night and managing our time between studies and performances." (11:11)

This period was instrumental in honing his technical skills and expanding his musical horizons, preparing him for a successful career in jazz.

Interweaving Poetry and Music

Anthony's creative process extends beyond music into the realm of poetry. He draws inspiration from literary works, seamlessly integrating poetic elements into his compositions.

"My poetry skills are not that good, but I'm very inspired by words. For instance, the first song we played was 'Words for My Horn,' which is the title of my debut record. I have a song, 'Crystal Stair,' inspired by Langston Hughes' poem 'Mother to Son.'" (11:44, 12:24)

This fusion of poetry and music allows Anthony to explore deeper thematic elements and add a lyrical dimension to his trumpet performances.

Debut Album and Future Projects

Since releasing his debut album in 2023, Anthony has been diligently working on his second project. He shares his excitement and meticulous approach to creating new music, ensuring each piece resonates with his artistic vision.

"I'm in the process of working on my second album. It's still in the development phase, so I don't like to rush my process. I've been writing a lot of new music, and I'm planning on recording by the summer." (12:28)

Fans can look forward to fresh compositions that continue to showcase his evolving style and dedication to jazz.

Live Performance Highlights

The episode features a live performance by Anthony, where he interprets Hoagy Carmichael's classic "The Nearness of You." This rendition underscores his ability to blend traditional jazz standards with his unique stylistic nuances.

"We're going to do a song by Hoagy Carmichael. This is one of my favorite composers... 'The Nearness of You'." (12:47)

Listeners are treated to a soulful performance that exemplifies Anthony's mastery of the trumpet and his deep connection to jazz heritage.

Conclusion

Alison Stewart wraps up the episode by highlighting Anthony Hervey's dual role as a performer and a creative artist deeply influenced by his environment and experiences in Harlem. The conversation not only sheds light on Anthony's personal journey but also celebrates the rich cultural tapestry that shapes his music.

"That was Anthony Hervey with a live performance of 'The Nearness of You' from our January Get Lit Book Club event." (14:49)

Listeners are left with an appreciation for Anthony's artistry and a keen anticipation for his forthcoming projects.

Notable Quotes

• "I moved up to New York City for school, so I was at Juilliard... it was kind of a place that I naturally gravitated towards." – Anthony Hervey (09:28)

• "That 20 seconds of him playing is literally why I'm in New York City." – Anthony Hervey (10:36)

• "My poetry skills are not that good, but I'm very inspired by words." – Anthony Hervey (11:44)

• "I'm planning on recording by the summer." – Anthony Hervey (12:28)

Takeaways

• Anthony Hervey's journey from Florida to Juilliard in New York City highlights the influence of environment and education on artistic development.
• The integration of poetry into his music demonstrates the interdisciplinary nature of his creative process.
• Anthony's commitment to crafting his second album reflects his dedication to personal and professional growth within the jazz genre.
• Live performances remain a central aspect of his connection with audiences, showcasing his technical prowess and emotional depth.

Listen to the Episode

For a deeper exploration of Anthony Hervey's musical insights and to enjoy his captivating performances, tune into ALL OF IT with Alison Stewart on WNYC.