Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Augie Haas. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Augie , thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
I think the best way to keep your creativity alive is to surround yourself by people who inspire you. I believe it leaves you thirsting to want to be better and always push yourself creatively and as an artist. Additionally, think an artist shouldn’t wait until a product is “perfect”. My favorite part of any process is the creating of something new and not necessarily the finished product. I always try and put out the best product I can of course and think people get stuck creatively when they can’t move on from an idea because it is not “perfect”.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
First and foremost I am a trumpet player! My current gig is I play in the orchestra for the Broadway show Aladdin. I am originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and I did my undergraduate at Chicago College of Performing Arts and a Masters and a Doctorate at the University of Miami.
When I was in Miami and I feel like that is when I got my first “big breaks” working with Rhianna, and touring with Pitbull when he first hit the scene. I then began touring with 7 time Grammy winner Maria Schneider. Maria was based out of NYC so when I finished school I moved to New York. I then began subbing on Broadway while continuing to tour with different artists. I then began touring with Harry Connick Jr. for several years while also doing Broadway and my own projects.
I have released 10 full albums as a leader, author of multiple books that have been sold internationally and host a monthly jazz night at a speakeasy on the Upper West Side that has developed a great following. We play the 2nd Monday of every month with a nine piece band at a venue call the Gin Mill in the Speakeasy in the basement. We always have special guests including Raye who is just an incredible artist I have had the great pleasure of touring with as well.
I feel especially fortunate to have had such a great career thus far and hope it continues to take me places I never thought I’d go!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
There are three things every artist has to do in my opinion. First, master your craft – practice until you can’t and don’t want to because you know the hardest climbs have the best views. Second, always show up on time — it shocks me how hard this is for people. Third, be cool, people want to work with people they like being around. It seems simple bet I really feel like it is the key to a successful career.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents supported me and let me find my own way on the journey even if it wasn’t the most direct route haha. They believed in me and never discouraged me for following my dreams.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.augiehaas.com
- Instagram: @augiehaas
Image Credits
Shannen Bamford
Breana Mazzagatte
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