About Paul Giese
Arranger, Composer & Trombonist
Introduction
Hi, I’m Paul Giese – a musician and arranger with an insatiable passion for jazz and innovative sounds. My musical journey began at the age of 8 and has since led me on exciting paths where I constantly reinvent myself and experiment.
Musical Background
My first steps into the world of music were taken with the tenor horn in the brass choir at the „Kirche Stadtmitte“ in Gütersloh. At 13, I joined the Big Band at the „Evangelisch Stiftisches Gymnasium“, a year after I discovered my love for arranging. Initially, I just wanted to play my favorite songs in the brass choir, but soon arranging became a passion that sparked my creativity and pushed me to explore musical boundaries. Inspired by mentors like Mr. Stork, Mr. Rasche and Mr. Rödiger, I developed my own style and began experimenting with various genres and styles. At 17, I switched to the trombone to delve deeper into my jazz passion and explore new soundscapes.
Notable Projects and Milestones:
Over the years, I have worked on numerous projects that are close to my heart:
„All of me“:
The first piece I ever arranged. I was at a young wind players‘ camp and didn’t feel like going on a hike. So I faked a stomach ache. When I got a bit bored after 3 hours on my own, I found piano sheet music for “All of me” by John Legend in my rucksack, we had sung the piece in music lessons at school. Since I liked the piece, I started to make this piano piece playable for us with pen and paper as best I could. It was horrible, of course, but it was a first step, without which I wouldn’t be where I am now
„It’s Been a Long, Long Time“:
Inspired by Avengers Endgame, I arranged this piece for both the brass choir and the big band. In (understandable) contrast to “All of me”, this piece was even performed by the brass choir. The feeling I had there can hardly be described
„Hit the Road Jack“:
After the Covid break, I turned up at the big band rehearsal with this arrangement. It became the first piece of mine that the big band performed.
Other Honerable Mentions
James Bond Arrangements:
A series of challenging arrangements that bring the iconic themes of James Bond movies into a fresh, jazzy light.
„Bohemian Rhapsody“ Church Version:
An epic reinterpretation of Queen’s classic with brass and organ, combining classical and modern elements.
„Beatles meets Jazz“ Series (as of 01.09.2024):
Currently working on a series of arrangements that blend the timeless melodies of the Beatles with innovative jazz elements.
Listen to these and more here:
My Motivation
Music has always been my steadfast companion, especially during the darkest phases of my life. Although I am the first in my family to pursue music, I have always relied on my own drive and curiosity to learn and grow. Whether through YouTube videos, online courses, or self-taught experimentation, my passion has continuously propelled me forward. For me, music is not just a hobby or profession but the essence of my being and expression of my personality.
My Philosophy
I believe in knowing the rules and daring to break them. By constantly experimenting and exploring new sound combinations, I strive to create unique and unexpected musical experiences. I am not afraid to take risks and learn from mistakes – this is how truly extraordinary works are born.