Farnell Newton’s "Class Is Now In Session" Comes Alive With AKG
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Introduced to AKG microphones in early 2010, Newton found a mic and clip that was gentle on his trumpet, which also offered a warm and clear sound for recording and live performances. As a highly accredited performer, who has worked alongside Stevie Wonder, Biz Markie, R. Kelly, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Erykah Badu, Ron Isley, Bootsy Collins, Fantasia, Najee and Will Downing, among others, it was important to have the perfect sound for his first solo project.
“I spent many long nights putting together a project of this caliber, working with many musicians and ensuring all of my ideas for a great record became a reality,” said Newton. “AKG gives me the confidence to perform at my highest ability. I know I sound great while using my mics and the album is a testament to that.”
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Newton has a fine history for acclaimed performances, such as being a member of the BET/CENTRIC TV Soul Train Awards Band and performing with fellow AKG musician Mike Phillips, but he has an even deeper passion for teaching. At Portland State University, Newton is a professor of jazz trumpet, while he also conducts multiple student groups ranging from the PSU Latin Jazz/Salsa Ensemble to the Contemporary Jazz Ensemble. Newton is also developing a multicultural jazz education program in Portland, OR - The PDX Jazz Project - an organization for students ages 13-18, to preserve and continue the history of jazz through education and performances around the community.
“Teaching is one of my loves and to combine that with my love of music is a perfect fit for me,” continued Newton. “I am happy to be a part of the AKG family – to have my album sound its best through recording on the C 214. With AKG’s reputation in the industry, being a part of AKG’s history will bring amazing opportunities for my current and future projects and my students.”