Maynard Ferguson dead at 78.

Maynard Ferguson, the legendary trumpet player has passed away. He was an inspiration. I never did get to see him play live.

Here are five of my favorite CDs to listen to and appreciate the genius.

• Big Bop Nouveau (1990) - The first CD I ever purchased. Even before I owned a CD player! Highlights include a medley performed on Maynard's 60th birthday tour. Chameleon, Macarthur Park, Frame for the Blues, Maria, Birdland.



• Chameleon (1974) - Highlight for me is La Fiesta.



• Maynard Ferguson Compilation from 1992. Aquarius.



• Live from San Francisco (1993) Recorded in 1983. Highlights are Fireshaker, Coconut Champagne and Ganesha, well actually the whole CD.



• The best of Maynard Ferguson (1980) First two tracks blew my mind. Gonna Fly Now and Macarthur park. (What a Bari solo!)

It's a sad day for trumpet players the world over.