Trumpeter
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At age 14, Bonnie was a member of Sierra Leone’s National Pop Band, Sierra Afrique (1989-1991). He did this against the wishes of his family who wanted him to pursue a more disciplined academic path. It was also a challenge for him to balance his school work and his position as a trumpeter for such a reputable band. Not least, because of the late nights he had to put in as a musician in a live band. He was home trained by his elder brother, who is one of the pioneers of solo trumpet playing in Freetown but little did he knew that this young man had a vision to 'blow his horn' beyond his homeland.
At age 21, Youth For Christ International invited him to tour the United States with Liberation ’93, a local group from Sierra Leone also known as The Agape Springs as their trumpeter. This was the beginning of Bonnie’s career as a professional trumpeter. He then began to receive invitations as guest performer at international festivals.
He was the guest performer In Banjul, The Gambia for two consecutive years (1995/96) during their annual Gospel Music Festival - 'Praise Waves'. Music producers who were present during the shows could not help it but extend an invitation to him to perform in Nigeria at the Living Spring Gospel festival in Ile-Ife. He soon became a favourite along the West African coast-line - 'blowing his horn'. Bonnie then gave up classical trumpet playing to develop his own personal sound and style in Jazz. He always seek out opportunities to upgrade his skills and enhance his musicianship.
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During his early years on the trumpet, he was well known for his spontaneous musical inventions, regardless of the style of music. He always wanted to hear something different so he played something different. He was the first Sierra Leonean musician to introduce jazz music in church and his improvisations on hymn tunes and Negro Spirituals were an all time favourite for both young and old.
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During his training and apprenticeship in The Netherlands as a piano tuner, he had the opportunity to rehearse with the Philips Harmonie in Eindohoven and also performed with The Bloaskaken - a carnival wind band in Son en Breugel. His contributions and style of playing gave a twist to the sound of the band and he soon became a favourite.
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Bonnie's version of Take 5 on Youtube has attracted trumpeters who are requesting a copy of the sheet music. He has kindly made it available for everyone.
Take 5 Pdf (for Bb Trumpet)
