Background
Roy Stevens was born on 1916. His father was a tailor who died when Roy was very young.
Roy Stevens was born on 1916. His father was a tailor who died when Roy was very young.
This was during the depression era so his family faced financial hardships that befell many families. Roy began playing trumpet professionally in his teens to support his family. Roy played with many of the named bands during the swing era: Tommy Dorsey, Bunny Berigan, and Benny Goodman.
Later Roy successfully headed his own big band recording for London Records.
He was managed by Joe Glaser, manager for Louie Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Hot Lips Page and Henry Red Allen. Roy also played in the section of the Raymond Scott Orchestra and most notably he played with Coleman Hawkins at Kelly’s Stable on 52nd Street.
Later when Costello retired, Roy took over the studio referring to the teaching as the Steven-Costello System. While teaching, Roy maintained his playing in combos and big bands.
Besides private teaching, Roy was an Associate Instructor at the Columbia University’s Teacher’s College.
Roy taught trumpet embouchure until his death in October 1988. Paul G. Bogosian: lead trumpet player for Don Ellis
Don Ellis: jazz trumpet player, composer and band leader. Lloyd Michaels: lead and session trumpet player
Roy Roman: lead trumpet player for Lionel Hampton, Charlie Palmieri, Tito Puente
Vince Penzarella: trumpet player for the New York Philharmonic, New York Metropolitan Opera Company
Lou Soloff: jazz and session trumpet player, band leader
Doctor Elmer R. White: trumpet player and educator - former Professor of Music at Appalachian State University
Bentley Ferguson: Maynard Ferguson"s late son spent a summer living and studying with Roy when he was about 14.