Conversations with Eric Dregne

Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Dregne

Hi Eric, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in Cleveland, OH. I was introduced to jazz and big band music early on and it became a true musical passion. My music tastes truly are eclectic and wide because of my idea of being open to music in general instead of just certain styles or genres.

I started studying the tenor trombone (the usual one you see played) in grade school, I continued in high school and was also introduced to the Bass Trombone (a bigger version of the usual instrument). I studied that exclusively at Youngstown State University where I had the true honor to play in the top Jazz Ensemble during that time. We recorded two CD’s and performed with many of the top jazz artists during our quarterly concerts. I learned the concept and idea of high standards, expectation and what it took to play at a truly professional level.

Over the years, I have continued as a top call free lance trombonist and added the titles of Band Leader, Musical Director, Mentor, Educator, Music Contractor, Booking Agent and multiple business owner. In my career, I have been blessed on multiple occasions with opportunities for me to learn and be involved in some of the greatest musical moments I could have ever dreamed of. It is a cornerstone of what I try to accomplish in my own groups by affording musicians of all ages and backgrounds to get a chance to play or be involved with one of my projects.

Many people learn by doing. They can learn what they have done, how much more they need to do, or maybe come to a realization that they are happy doing exactly what they already do, There’s so much more, but I can never overstate how lucky, blessed and fortunate I am to be able to have the life I have, work with wonderful people and musicians, and have tremendous support to help me continue to achieve my goals.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
A lot of the obstacles I face have to do with personnel and scheduling. Because I am in charge of multiple bands, it is difficult to sometimes have the same people for each performance in a specific group. Working with extraordinarily talented musicians also makes it difficult because they are in demand so their schedules fill up quick.

I had to learn early on that if I wanted to have opportunities (especially for the larger sized bands) that my network and talent pool needed to be incredibly deep. I also had to start to categorize the people in my network by what their strengths are as musicians. To me, it’s as easy as calling someone up and just filling a spot. Many positions have specific roles that are required of the player so I have to make sure that the skill sets match up.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work is multi-faceted which is as exciting as it is a challenge.

I am a Professional free lance bass/tenor trombonist, I specialize in playing a wide range of musical styles. I have deep roots in rock, big band, salsa, classical and jazz music styles

I am a Band Leader that works with multiple bands of different styles.

I am the founder, Musical Director and Bass Trombonist of the Skatch Anderssen Orchestra which is a more modern “Repertory” Big Band that plays on Monday nights at Brothers Lounge in Cleveland.

I took over the Legendary Dan Zola Orchestra in 2020 from Mr. Zola after almost 60 years of his leadership.

I run and am the Musical Director and Trombonist of The Perfect Choice Band; a 10 piece Event Band that is one of the finest bands around. Incredible Singers, rockin’ rhythm section and the tightest hors you’ll hear.

I am currently the Trombonist in “Brass Metropolis” which is a tribute band for the group Chicago.

I serve as a coach and mentor to other local band leaders as well as working with schools and educational Programs.

I work with non-profit organizations and am very passionate about creating opportunities for musicians o all ages.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Youtube Channels
Rick Beato – What Makes This Song Great
The Charismatic Voice
Polyphonic
Professor of Rock
Charles Cornell

Books
Anything on Pink Floyd and histories of bands
50 Years at the Village Vanguard
The Big Bands
The Real Frank Zappa Book

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.perfectchoiceentertainment.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfectchoiceband/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PerfectChoiceBand
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perfectchoiceband
• Other: www.perfectchoiceband.com, www.saorchestra.com, www.zolabigband.com