In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with William James, Principal Percussionist of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. We talk about his journey through the world of orchestral percussion, from early influences and summer programs to the high-pressure world of auditions. Will shares thoughtful insights on what it takes to succeed as a modern percussionist, both musically and administratively.

We dig into the evolving expectations placed on orchestral players, the challenges of recording and venue acoustics, and how creativity, flexibility, and technology are reshaping the field. We also reflect on the importance of great teachers, the value of building a strong repertoire, and the ongoing role education plays in both our lives.

Will’s passion for percussion extends far beyond performance—he’s a dedicated educator, chamber musician, and author. His contributions to the percussion community have had a lasting impact, and I was grateful for the opportunity to delve deeper into his story.

About William James:
William James is the Principal Percussionist of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra. He won the position at just 25, following studies at Northwestern University and the New England Conservatory. A versatile performer and educator, Will has played with top orchestras across the country, given solo recitals, taught masterclasses nationwide, and authored The Modern Concert Snare Drum Roll.

You can learn more about William at: williamjamespercussion.com

Music from the Episode:
Scirocco (Michael Burritt)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.

In this conversation, I sit down with Matt Rollings to explore his incredible journey as a musician. We talk about the early family influences that helped shape his path, his time in Nashville, and the career milestones that followed. Matt opens up about the importance of feel and connection in music, and how those elements often outweigh technical precision.

This episode is especially meaningful because Matt played on my album when I was just 11 years old. Reconnecting and talking music with him all these years later was a full-circle moment I’ll never forget.

We delve into some of his most memorable collaborations, the evolution of his work as a producer and educator, and the joy he derives from mentoring the next generation of musicians. Throughout our chat, we discuss the art of musical collaboration, the emotional interplay between players, and how listening—really listening—is at the heart of great music-making.

We also share our reflections and journeys through sobriety, vulnerability's role in life and art, and why curiosity and flexibility have remained core to his creative process. I'm excited to share this inspiring, thoughtful, and profoundly musical conversation with you.

Learn more about Matt at: mattrollings.com.

Music from the Episode:
Groove With a View (Matt Rollings)
I'm Little But I'm Loud (Brad Williams)
El Padre de Papagallos (Matt Rollings)
North Dakota (Lyle Lovett)
Nobody Knows Me (Lyle Lovett)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I talk with guitarist Mike Seal about his incredible musical journey. We dig into his early influences, the development of his unique fingerstyle technique, and his collaborations with some truly legendary musicians. Mike reflects on the impact of his teachers on his growth, the value of music education, and how music festivals have helped shape his sense of community and connection.

We discuss his years with the Jeff Sipe Trio as well as his time playing with The Jerry Douglas Band.

He also shares his personal life, including his incredibly talented wife, and the joys and challenges of life as a touring musician. We talk about what it’s like to transition from sideman to bandleader, the importance of staying authentic as an artist, and the excitement surrounding his upcoming solo album.

This conversation highlights the deep relationships and growth that happen through music, and I came away inspired by Mike’s humility, insight, and passion for the craft. I’m thrilled to share this one with you.

You can learn more about Mike at mikesealmusic.com.

Music from the Episode:
Trumpets (Jeff Sipe Trio)
Naima (Jeff Sipe Trio)
While My Guitar Gently Weeps (Jerry Douglas Band)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.