Adolph Herseth

Adolph “Bud” Herseth was one of the most celebrated trumpeters in American orchestral history. He served as the principal trumpet of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for over 50 years, from 1948 to 2001, helping to define the brass-heavy sound that made the CSO famous worldwide. Known for his powerful tone, precise articulation, and musicality, Herseth’s playing influenced generations of brass players and helped elevate the role of trumpet in orchestral performance.

Herseth performed under many legendary conductors, including Fritz Reiner, Georg Solti, and Daniel Barenboim, contributing to numerous landmark recordings with the orchestra. A graduate of Luther College and a World War II Navy veteran, Herseth studied at the New England Conservatory before joining the CSO at age 26. His legacy remains deeply ingrained in the orchestral world, both through recordings and the many players who consider him a major influence.

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