Biography
Rich Pulin, an accomplished trombonist, composer, and arranger, was born and raised in Bethpage, Long Island, New York. He began his musical journey on the baritone horn before switching to trombone, inspired by the film 'The Glenn Miller Story.' As a teenager, Pulin quickly became active in the local music scene, performing at school dances and community events. His early break came at age 18, when he was introduced to legendary trumpeter Dalton Smith, who connected him to Woody Herman’s pianist-arranger Nat Pierce. This led to a pivotal audition and a position with the Tommy Dorsey Band under Warren Covington, marking the start of a prolific career in big band and jazz music.[1][6][7]
Throughout his career, Pulin held the first trombone and jazz soloist chairs with numerous renowned bands, including those led by Johnny Long, Richard Maltby, Buddy Morrow, Les & Larry Elgart, Les Brown, Tony Pastor, the Jimmy Dorsey Band under Lee Castle, and Woody Herman’s Herd. He also performed with the Al Grey/Billy Mitchell Sextet, Slam Stewart's Band, the Dave Pike Set, and notably, Clark Terry’s first big band at the Half Note. After returning to Los Angeles, Pulin worked with Glen Campbell’s band, The Supremes, and performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival with Ray Charles and Tito Puente. In addition to his performing career, Pulin has focused on music education, particularly early childhood jazz education, and continues to compose and collaborate with his family.[1][2][3][7]
Pulin’s musical style is rooted in the jazz and big band traditions, characterized by expressive trombone solos and sophisticated arrangements. His legacy is marked not only by his extensive performance history but also by his dedication to nurturing young musicians and promoting jazz education through initiatives like his 'Pulin for Jazz' program.[3][7]
Fun Facts
- Rich Pulin switched from baritone horn to trombone after being inspired by the film 'The Glenn Miller Story.'
- He was 'adopted' musically by jazz icon Billy Mitchell, who considered him a protégé.
- Pulin’s orchestra has accompanied celebrities such as Debbie Reynolds and Gary 'Radar' Burghof from 'MAS*H.'
- He is actively involved in songwriting collaborations with his family, spanning multiple genres.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Billy Mitchell - Mitchell was a close mentor and friend, guiding Pulin musically and personally for over forty years. (Performed and recorded together in the Al Grey/Billy Mitchell Sextet and other projects.) [1960s-2000s]
- Clark Terry - Terry was both a collaborator and an inspiration, with Pulin performing in Terry’s first big band. (Clark Terry’s first big band at the Half Note.) [1960s]
- Nat Pierce - Pierce facilitated Pulin’s entry into professional jazz by introducing him to key figures and opportunities. (Connection to Charlie Barnett’s band and Tommy Dorsey Band audition.) [1950s]
Key Collaborators
- Dalton Smith - Smith referred Pulin to Nat Pierce, catalyzing his professional career. (Career mentorship and introductions.) [1950s]
- Al Grey - Co-led the Al Grey/Billy Mitchell Sextet, with Pulin as trombonist. (Al Grey/Billy Mitchell Sextet.) [1960s]
- Ray Charles - Performed together at the Monterey Jazz Festival. (Monterey Jazz Festival (1977) performance (Concord Records).) [1977]
- Tito Puente - Shared the stage at the Monterey Jazz Festival. (Monterey Jazz Festival (1977) performance.) [1977]
- Glen Campbell - Played in Campbell’s band after returning to Los Angeles. (Live performances.) [1970s]
- The Supremes - Performed with the group in Hawaii. (Live performances.) [1970s]
Artists Influenced
- Brooke Pulin - Rich’s daughter, whom he has mentored and collaborated with musically. (Songwriting and musical projects.) [2000s-present]
- Early childhood jazz students - Through his 'Pulin for Jazz' program, Rich has influenced young musicians in jazz education. (Pulin for Jazz educational initiatives.) [2000s-present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| pulin for YOU 2 | 2003-01-01 | Album |
Top Tracks
- The Message (Always Pulin For You)
- Cold Trane (pulin for YOU 2)
- Song Is Hugh (pulin for YOU 2)
- Horace Toccata (pulin for YOU 2)
- Baby J (pulin for YOU 2)
- Midnight Stream (pulin for YOU 2)
- The Message (pulin for YOU 2)
- Tazmanian Devil (pulin for YOU 2)
- November Blues (pulin for YOU 2)
- Little Friend (pulin for YOU 2)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Rich Pulin Sextet has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 10, 2025 | 02:30 | November Bluesfrom Pulin for You 2 | The Dean's Listw/ Dean Ellis |