What does it take to build a career that's both artistically fulfilling and sustainable? In this episode of Life of a Band Leader, Angela O'Neill sits down with acclaimed saxophonist, composer, educator, and bandleader Pete Mills for an inspiring conversation about musicianship, leadership, and the ever-evolving world of jazz.

Pete shares stories from his remarkable career, discussing the importance of finding your own musical voice, developing lasting collaborations, and balancing performance, composition, recording, and teaching. With decades of experience on stage and in the studio, he offers practical advice and thoughtful insights for musicians at every stage of their journey.

🎷 In this episode you'll discover:

Pete's journey into jazz and the influences that shaped his career

The realities of leading a successful band

Why mentorship and music education matter

How collaboration creates stronger music

Lessons learned from years of performing, recording, and teaching

Whether you're a jazz fan, performer, educator, composer, or aspiring bandleader, this conversation is filled with wisdom, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes stories from a life dedicated to music.

🎧 Life of a Band Leader is hosted by Angela O'Neill of Outrageous8 Records, featuring candid conversations with today's leading musicians, composers, arrangers, and entertainers about the craft, business, and passion behind a life in music.

🌐 Learn more about Pete Mills at petemills.com.

PETE MILLS - THIS IS NOW

Toronto-born saxophonist Pete Mills delivers a fast-paced, swinging new recording, This Is Now. A follow-up to 2025’s For The Record, this new release features Mills’ hard-driving tenor playing alongside an outstanding lineup of familiar collaborators: drummer Matt Wilson, bassist Martin Wind, guitarist and co-producer Pete McCann, and rising piano phenom Kenny Banks Jr. The album focuses squarely on Mills’ original music and includes a spirited reworking of his tune “Bird Lives” (from For The Record), reimagined with Kenny Banks Jr. and a poignant duo performance with Matt Wilson (U.M.M.G.). McCann, Banks Jr. and Wind all emerge as standout voices, contributing to a recording that radiates swing, spirit, and beauty from start to finish.

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more conversations with the artists who keep live music thriving.

#LifeOfABandLeader #PeteMills #AngelaONeill #Outrageous8Records #JazzPodcast #Saxophone #JazzMusician #BandLeader #MusicEducation #Jazz

🎙️ Life of a Band Leader — Featuring Dave Slonaker Hosted by Angela O’Neill and Outrageous8 Records

In this episode of Life of a Band Leader, Angela O’Neill welcomes acclaimed trumpeter, bandleader, arranger, and educator Dave Slonaker for an engaging conversation about the art, business, and passion behind a life in music.

With a career spanning performance, education, and musical leadership, Dave shares insights into what it takes to build a successful career while staying true to your artistic vision. From memorable performances to lessons learned along the way, this episode offers a fascinating look into the world of a dedicated musician and bandleader.

🎺 In this episode:

✨ Dave's musical journey and career highlights

✨ The challenges and rewards of leading a band

✨ The importance of mentorship and music education

✨ Stories from the stage and behind the scenes

✨ Advice for aspiring musicians and performers

Whether you're a musician, educator, jazz enthusiast, or simply curious about the lives of professional artists, you'll enjoy this thoughtful and inspiring conversation.

🎧 Life of a Band Leader is a series hosted by Angela O’Neill of The Outrageous8, featuring conversations with musicians, entertainers, and creative professionals who share their experiences, challenges, and successes.

👉 Watch now: https://youtu.be/OPWfPOl1U1I

🔔 Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews, music, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of jazz and live performance.

#LifeOfABandLeader #DaveSlonaker #AngelaONeill #TheOutrageous8 #JazzPodcast #Trumpet #BigBand #JazzMusic #Bandleader #MusicianLife

🎙️ Life of a Band Leader — Featuring Dave Schumacher Hosted by Angela O’Neill of The Outrageous8

In this episode of Life of a Band Leader, Angela O’Neill sits down with musician, entertainer, and bandleader Dave Schumacher for a lively and insightful conversation about the realities of life in music.

From performing and leading bands to navigating the ever-changing entertainment industry, Dave shares stories, lessons, and behind-the-scenes moments from his journey as a working musician.

🎶 In this episode: ✨ Dave’s musical journey and career highlights ✨ What it takes to lead and sustain a successful band ✨ The challenges and rewards of performing live ✨ Stories from the stage and the world of entertainment ✨ Insights into creativity, professionalism, and longevity in music

Whether you’re a musician, performer, or simply love hearing authentic stories from seasoned artists, this episode offers inspiration, humor, and real-world wisdom from someone who’s lived the life.

🎧 Life of a Band Leader is hosted by Angela O’Neill of The Outrageous8 — spotlighting musicians, creatives, and industry professionals who share their journeys, challenges, and passion for the art of performance.

👉 Watch now: https://youtu.be/aDCyFVvtsUc

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes and live music content.

#LifeOfABandLeader #DaveSchumacher #AngelaONeill #MusicPodcast #BandLeader #MusicianLife #Jazz #LiveMusic