Since 1984, millions of holiday revelers have enjoyed our trombone choir’s unique sound and spirit. Whether on or around Balboa Island or at any one of the thousands of private parties, bars or restaurants where we have performed, it has truly been a blessing to pass along our gift of music all these years.
In addition to events surrounding the Boat Parade, we play many other special events as well. A sampling of our past performances are:
* President Ronald Reagan – Private Performance
* Hoag Hospital Cancer Center – Yearly Goodwill Performance
* Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum – Tree Lighting
* Balboa Island – Holiday Home Tour
* Someone Cares Soup Kitchen – Holiday Meal Service
* Balboa Island – Christmas Tree Lighting
* CHOC – Fundraiser
* MIKA CDC – Community Gift Exchange
Recordings
“Christmas Blows” was the Balboa Bachelors’ first foray at attempting to capture the magic of our live performances on CD. Recorded during the band’s “trumpet period” this CD features two trumpets, three trombones and percussion on most charts. It was recorded in 1996 and 1997 and was released in December of 1997.
Like always, players came in from around the country to lay down tracks. Through the mastery and incredible patience of Andrew Powell, a lot of very raw material was turned into a fine example of the Bachelors’ sound during this era.
A special mention must be made regarding the version of “Silent Night” found on this recording. In 1992, the Bachelors were invited to play for President Ronald Reagan in his post-presidential office in Los Angeles. “Silent Night” was President Reagan’s favorite Christmas carol, and this chart was written specifically for that performance.
Dedications
Dedicated To Jeff Crist and Cathy Alden and to all those who have left us too soon.
The Players
Trumpets: Steve Bornstein, Kurt Lohmiller (lead), Phil Layton. Trombones: Jeff Gould (lead), Tim Johns, Paul Orth, Jeff Shimamoto, Randy Wallen (Bass). Percussion: Eric Vandeveld.
Guest Artists: Guitar: Paul Bernadou. Piano: Rick Sherman. “Background Clamor” on Feliz Navidad: Sean “Boomer Duncan” and Julie Morris. “Away in a Manger II” written and arranged by Andrew Powell and performed by Andrew and Paul Bernadou.
Production Credits
Produced by: Randy Wallen and Andrew Powell.
Recorded at Mitchell Sound (1996) and Sumner Studios (1997).
Post Production: Cabin Fever Studios
Artwork: Chris Powell
Title Concept: Terence Brown
This audio recording is for the non-commercial use and enjoyment of the family, friends, and fans of The Balboa Bachelors.
“30 Years of Christmas Cheer” is the Balboa Bachelors’ second release. Recorded and released in 2014, this collection of music takes the band back to its roots as a Trombone Choir with each chart featuring the band’s basic lineup of five trombones and percussion. Many of the arrangements on this recording were put together by members of the band; most notably Gary Haendiges and Jeff Gould.
This recording came together over the course of 10 months with 11 different musicians taking part. Players flew in from as far away as Green Bay, Phoenix and San Francisco to join our local members in bringing about a work that we hope brings you and yours great joy for many Christmas seasons to come.
We would be remiss if special thanks weren’t offered to Rick Sherman of Sherman Sound Suite, Len Wicks of New Day Music, Chris Powell, and finally JJ Golden of Golden Mastering. This project would not have been possible without their expertise, assistance and encouragement along the way. And of course, extra special thanks to “The Hebrew Hey’rs” – Brian Friedman, Steve Bornstein & Family
Dedications
This recording is dedicated to the Hoag Hospital Cancer Center, Dr. Khosrow Mahdavi & Staff, and the Someone Cares Soup Kitchen.
I’ll Be Home for Christmas” is dedicated to the memory of Joanne Powell.
The Players
Trombones: Chris Clark, Greg Gallardo (Euphonium), Jeff Gould (Lead), Gary Haendiges (Lead), Tim Johns, Brad Lundberg, Paul Orth, Greg Pate, Jeff Shimamoto, Randy Wallen (Bass). Percussion: Eric Vandeveld.
Production Credits
Executive Producer: Randy Wallen
Recording & Editing: Rick Sherman / Conductor: Len Wicks
Mixing & EQ: Chris Powell / Mastering: JJ Golden
Art Director: Christopher Clark
Recorded at Sherman Sound Suite & Orange County Sound Stage – Irvine, CA 2014
This audio recording is for the non-commercial use and enjoyment of the family, friends, and fans of The Balboa Bachelors.
