Adolph Herseth: The Legendary Trumpeter Who Defined an Era
Adolph “Bud” Herseth was one of the most influential trumpet players of the 20th century, known for his brilliant tone, impeccable musicianship, and unwavering consistency. As the principal trumpet of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) for over 50 years, he shaped the sound of orchestral brass playing and became a model for generations of trumpeters worldwide. His career set new standards in orchestral trumpet performance, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians today.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
A Musical Upbringing
Adolph Sylvester Herseth was born on July 25, 1921, in Lake Park, Minnesota. His parents, both of Scandinavian descent, valued education and music, instilling in him a strong work ethic from a young age. His father was a musician and a band director, and it was under his guidance that young Adolph first picked up the trumpet.
Herseth showed promise early on, and his natural talent was cultivated through rigorous practice and exposure to various musical styles. Despite his eventual rise to fame in the orchestral world, he was initially drawn to the more popular brass music of the time, including big band and jazz. However, he soon found his true calling in classical music.
Education and Early Training
Herseth attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, where he initially planned to study mathematics. However, his passion for music led him to pursue a more serious study of the trumpet. His skill quickly became evident, and he eventually transferred to the New England Conservatory in Boston, where he studied with Georges Mager, the principal trumpet of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Mager, a French-trained musician, exposed Herseth to the French trumpet tradition, emphasizing smooth legato playing, precise articulation, and a warm, lyrical tone. These lessons would profoundly influence Herseth’s approach to the trumpet and help shape the signature sound that made him famous.
World War II and Military Service
Like many musicians of his generation, Herseth’s career was interrupted by World War II. He served in the U.S. Navy during the war, playing in military bands. This experience honed his ability to perform under pressure and prepared him for the rigorous demands of professional music-making.
After the war, Herseth resumed his musical studies and soon found himself at a pivotal crossroads. His impeccable technique and commanding presence on the trumpet had already garnered attention, and it wasn’t long before a major opportunity came his way.
Joining the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
A Life-Changing Audition
In 1947, at the age of 26, Herseth was invited to audition for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) by its newly appointed music director, Artur Rodzinski. Despite his relative inexperience in a major orchestra, Herseth impressed Rodzinski and the CSO musicians with his powerful yet controlled sound.
He was offered the position of principal trumpet, a role that would define his career and elevate him to legendary status. Herseth accepted, though he later recalled feeling some hesitation, knowing the immense responsibility that came with such a position.
The Herseth Sound: Bold, Clear, and Incomparable
Herseth’s arrival at the CSO coincided with a period of transformation for the orchestra. Under the leadership of conductors like Fritz Reiner, Georg Solti, and Daniel Barenboim, the CSO developed one of the most powerful and distinctive orchestral sounds in the world.
Herseth’s tone was immediately recognizable—bright, brilliant, and commanding, yet warm and lyrical when needed. His ability to project over the full orchestra without sounding harsh made him a favorite among conductors and audiences alike.
His playing can be heard in hundreds of CSO recordings, including:
• Mahler’s Fifth Symphony (Solti, CSO) – featuring the famous trumpet solo in the first movement.
• Stravinsky’s “Petrushka” – showcasing Herseth’s technical precision and expressive power.
• Bruckner’s Symphonies – displaying his majestic orchestral presence.
Through these recordings, Herseth influenced countless musicians who sought to emulate his purity of sound, phrasing, and musical intelligence.
A Legacy of Excellence: The CSO Years
Collaboration with Great Conductors
During his tenure with the CSO, Herseth worked with some of the greatest conductors of the 20th century, including:
• Fritz Reiner (1953-1962) – Known for his exacting standards, Reiner relied on Herseth’s precision and artistry to define the brass section’s character.
• Sir Georg Solti (1969-1991) – Under Solti, the CSO brass section became world-renowned, often referred to as the “Chicago Sound.”
• Claudio Abbado, Daniel Barenboim, and Pierre Boulez – Each of these conductors praised Herseth’s ability to adapt to different musical styles while maintaining his signature brilliance.
The Chicago Symphony Brass Sound
Herseth’s influence extended beyond his own playing—he shaped an entire generation of brass players. Under his leadership, the Chicago Symphony Brass became legendary for its:
• Powerful and golden tone.
• Precision and clarity in ensemble playing.
• Impeccable intonation and musical phrasing.
This sound became a model for brass sections worldwide, particularly in the U.S., where orchestras sought to replicate the CSO’s distinctive brilliance.
Teaching and Influence on the Next Generation
Herseth was not just a performer—he was also an influential teacher and mentor. Though he never held a formal university teaching position, he gave masterclasses and worked with young musicians who aspired to orchestral playing.
His advice to students often emphasized:
• The importance of sound concept – Developing a strong, clear idea of the sound one wants to produce.
• Consistency under pressure – Learning how to play well in high-stakes performance situations.
• Endurance and efficiency – Playing with minimal tension to ensure longevity in one’s career.
Many of today’s leading trumpet players credit Herseth as a key influence, either through direct mentorship or through studying his recordings.
Retirement and Later Years
After an astonishing 53 years as principal trumpet of the CSO, Herseth stepped down in 2001 but remained with the orchestra as principal trumpet emeritus. His presence continued to be felt within the organization, and he was widely regarded as the soul of the CSO brass section.
Even in retirement, Herseth remained active in music, giving masterclasses and sharing his wisdom with younger players. He was honored numerous times for his contributions to classical music and received awards celebrating his impact on orchestral trumpet playing.
The End of an Era: Adolph Herseth’s Passing
Adolph Herseth passed away on April 13, 2013, at the age of 91. His death marked the end of an era in orchestral music, but his legacy remains alive in the recordings, students, and musicians he influenced.
Herseth’s Legacy: Why He Still Matters
1. Defining the Modern Orchestral Trumpet Sound
Herseth’s sound became the gold standard for orchestral trumpet playing. His ability to balance power and beauty in his tone influenced generations of musicians.
2. Revolutionizing Brass Playing
Under his leadership, the Chicago Symphony brass section became the most admired in the world, setting a new standard for orchestras globally.
3. Inspiring Future Musicians
Through his recordings, masterclasses, and mentorship, Herseth continues to inspire trumpet players to strive for excellence, musicality, and consistency.
4. The Art of Musical Longevity
Few musicians have maintained the level of excellence Herseth did for over 50 years. His endurance, discipline, and passion for music serve as a lesson for all instrumentalists.
Final Thoughts
Adolph Herseth was more than a trumpet player—he was a musical giant, a leader, and an artist whose contributions to orchestral music will be remembered for generations. His dedication to his craft and his ability to move audiences with sound exemplify the highest ideals of music-making.
For anyone aspiring to greatness in music, studying the life and playing of Adolph Herseth is essential. His story reminds us that beyond technical mastery, the true purpose of playing an instrument is to inspire, express, and create unforgettable musical moments.
