Meiko Lydall - Trumpet and Flugelhorn

Personal Background:

Meiko was born and raised in Ottawa and comes from a long line of trumpet players. Her grandfather was her first teacher, introducing her to the trumpet and piano at the age of seven.

Musical Background:

After attending Confederation High School and playing with the Nepean All City Jazz Band, Meiko made the move to Toronto to study Jazz Performance at the University of Toronto. She studied with Kevin Turcotte and Chase Sanborn at UofT, as well as Ingrid Jensen. Meiko was a featured soloist on two recordings with the UofT 10 O’Clock Jazz Orchestra. For three years following school, Meiko branched out in other musical avenues playing with a Japanese Taiko drumming ensemble in Toronto. This musical journey culminated in a trip to Japan to participate in a week-long workshop with the Kodo drummers on Sado Island. Meiko is happy to be living once again in Ottawa and playing the trumpet with several groups around town.

Musical Influences:

Meiko’s musical taste varies and includes jazz, pop, rock, funk, and classical. Some of her favourite trumpet players are: Kenny Wheeler, Terence Blanchard, Dave Douglas, Freddie Hubbard, Chet Baker, and Miles Davis. Music often found in her CD player includes: Sting, Stevie Wonder, Jamiroquai, Tower of Power and Coldplay.

The FunKtion:

Meiko says; " I'm so happy to be playing with a great group of talented musicians who know how to get funky and have a good time! And I love the repertoire - not only is it challenging and musical, it's so much fun! I just can't stop dancing!"