Voices in Brass #12: A Disney Standard turned Big Band

When You Wish Upon a Star – Louis Dowdeswell Big Band ft. Wayne Bergeron: A Masterclass in Lyricism and Power

Hello again, brass enthusiasts! Today’s Voices of Brass entry is a special one. We’re stepping into the world of big band jazz, cinematic elegance, and top-tier trumpet artistry. Our focus: an awe-inspiring performance of When You Wish Upon a Star by the Louis Dowdeswell Big Band, arranged by the incredibly gifted Callum Au, and featuring the legendary Wayne Bergeron.

If you’ve ever doubted that brass can sing, swoon, and soar with the expressive beauty of a voice—this arrangement will make you believe.

🎧 Watch the performance here:


A Modern Big Band Renaissance

Trumpeter, producer, and bandleader Louis Dowdeswell has been at the forefront of a new era of big band excellence—delivering high-octane, emotionally rich performances tailor-made for today’s audiences. But this performance owes much of its shape and magic to Callum Au, whose arranging voice has become synonymous with elegance, harmonic depth, and textural mastery.

Together, they take this beloved Disney classic and reimagine it as a soaring jazz ballad, full of lush orchestration and emotional lift. And at the heart of it all is Wayne Bergeron, whose playing exemplifies everything great about lead trumpet performance: control, tone, phrasing, and sheer brilliance.

Bergeron: The Gold Standard in Lead Trumpet

Wayne Bergeron’s performance is more than just technically impressive—it’s deeply expressive. His lyrical interpretation in the opening verses draws the listener in with warmth and intention. And when the high notes arrive, they’re not just loud—they’re earned, shaped, and musical. Every phrase he plays tells a story.

Bergeron’s ability to move between tenderness and power is something few players master. It’s what makes him one of the most sought-after names in studio work and live performance. He doesn’t overpower the band—he elevates it.

The Brilliance of Callum Au’s Arrangement

Callum Au’s arrangement is a shining example of what modern big band writing can achieve. He treats the ensemble like a painter’s palette—balancing color, harmony, and movement with sophistication and emotional nuance. His voicings are rich but transparent; the dynamics breathe with the melody; and the transitions between sections feel organic and cinematic.

This isn’t just a showcase for a soloist—it’s a fully realized piece of art where every part contributes to the whole.

Why This Performance Matters

For educators, students, and listeners alike, this video is an ideal study in musicianship, ensemble coordination, and creative arranging. It reminds us that excellence in brass music doesn’t have to come from bombast or speed—it can come from craft, collaboration, and care.

Whether you’re chasing range, developing phrasing, or learning to arrange for brass, this performance gives you something to aspire toward.

Final Thoughts

The Louis Dowdeswell Big Band’s rendition of When You Wish Upon a Star—elevated by Callum Au’s masterful arrangement and Wayne Bergeron’s iconic performance—is more than just a beautiful cover. It’s a reminder that the tradition of big band brass is alive, evolving, and still capable of touching hearts with every soaring phrase.

Thanks for joining me for another Voices of Brass. Stay tuned as we continue spotlighting the artists and ensembles that inspire us. Got a favorite recording or arranger you want to see featured next? Leave a comment or send your suggestions—I’d love to hear from you!

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