Joe Wilder

Joe Wilder endorsed many musical products during his long career as a trumpeter. In the later part of his life he was very satisfied with the Buescher horns, but had a collection of other instruments, such as Holton and Conn, which he played during the swing era. Along with his long and successful jazz career, Joe was a mainstay in the pit on Broadway for several decades helping break the color line in several theaters. Our interview with him took place after his 85th birthday at a jazz festival, where he was honored for his role as educator and mentor to younger musicians.  Joe passed away at the age of 92, leaving the world a better place than he found it.