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Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist Joel Hoekstra
Now that the government has reopened, there are a couple of different debates that will immediately get underway. 42 million people receive SNAP benefits for basic needs. How much fraud? Turns out a lot of it and the Secretary of Agriculture is prepared to lower the boom on it in a new report next week. Stigall has some preliminary numbers. One of the greatest Christmas traditions for the Stigall family is going to see Trans Siberian Orchestra at Christmas. They're launching their tour this week and their lead guitarist and musical director Al Pitrelli stops by to talk about a huge milestone they reached this year. Secretary of State Marco Rubio makes no bones about sending naval vessels to the Caribbean to flex at Venezuela. And Congressman Scott Perry explains why now is the perfect time to have a new debate about Obamacare. -For more info visit the official website: https://chrisstigall.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisstigallshow/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisStigallFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.stigall/Listen on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/StigallPodListen on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/StigallShowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode #284Drummer Jeff Plate is a founding member of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Savatage, and he's also a drum instructor. Mistress Carrie caught up with Jeff in his home studio to talk this years show, pyro, The Sphere, celebrating the Holidays, Moriah Formica, Ozzy, festivals, Nu-Metal, Spinal Tap, and so much more. Episode NotesCheck out the custom playlist for Episode #284 here!Hear Jeff Plate from TSO on Episode #229Hear Joel Hoekstra from TSO on Episode #122See TSO in concert get ticket info here!Find Jeff Plate OnlineFacebookInstagramFind Trans Siberian Orchestra Online:WebsiteTwitterFacebookInstagramYoutubeFind Mistress Carrie Online: Official WebsiteThe Mistress Carrie Backstage Pass on PatreonXFacebookInstagramThreadsYouTubeCameoPantheon Podcast NetworkFind The Mistress Carrie Podcast online:InstagramThreads Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA "GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS EVE: THE BEST OF TSO & MORE" coming to the Resch Center in Green Bay THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13th. (and will be back in Milwaukee December 27th). Tickets on sale: HERE and HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We keep the holly jolly feeling going hard when we discuss the progressive rock masterpiece "Christmas Eve & Other Stories" by Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Follow us on IG Buy a Shirt or Coffee Mug Join our Facebook Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kruser talks with Bob Babbage about the latest attempt to end the government shutdown and Jeff Plate from the Trans Siberian Orchestra joins the show to talk about their upcoming show at Rupp Arena in hour 3. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike The Intern talks with Al Pitrelli about the Trans-Siberian Orchestra coming to Springfield!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
TSI drummer and co-founder Jeff Plate joined us to talk about their Winter tour which includes Van Ander Arena on December 7th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Every holiday season, Trans-Siberian Orchestra electrifies audiences with a symphony of rock, lights, and storytelling unlike anything else on earth. Nine-time Emmy winner David Sams sits down with Al Pitrelli—TSO's lead guitarist, musical director, and founding member—to reveal the heart, history, and humanity behind one of America's most cherished Christmas traditions. From the early days of analog tape and late nights in the studio to selling out arenas across the country, Al shares how The Ghosts of Christmas Eve continues to evolve while keeping Paul O'Neill's vision alive. Hear how TSO balances nostalgia with innovation, what fans can expect from this year's breathtaking production, and why this music connects generations every winter. Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering TSO for the first time, this inspiring conversation captures the artistry, emotion, and sheer power of the band that defines the sound of the season. ✨ Experience the magic live—find a show near you and get tickets at TSOTickets.com.
Send us a textA twenty-year reunion turns into a masterclass on survival, adaptation, and the art of playing for keeps. We sit down with guitarist, writer, and singer George Cintron to trace a line from a Puerto Rican household in Bayshore—where top 40 radio was the cultural gateway—to roaring Long Island clubs, studio sessions with heavy hitters, and a phone call that vaulted him onto arena stages with Enrique Iglesias. George shares how a gold-top Les Paul and theory class became real gigs, why auditions used to be about skill, and how the drinking age shift quietly gutted a thriving band economy.The story pulls no punches on today's bar math: band pay that never rose, owners who book by headcount, and hobby acts undercutting rates. Yet it's not a rant; it's a roadmap. You'll hear the Enrique break—how speaking Spanish got George hired to help form the touring band and teach phonetics to non-Spanish speakers—and what it felt like when Bailamos turned a summer tour into a year-end sprint. Then we jump to Trans Siberian Orchestra and the long-running Windborne Music shows, where Zeppelin, Queen, and Pink Floyd get rebuilt with a full symphony and a rock band at center. Charts are precise, subs are surgical, and the result draws multiple generations without diluting the punch.Woven through the tour stories are studio truths (why producers say “be yourself” then ask for less), candid talk about health and aging, and the case for steady rehearsal as the secret engine of great bands. If you care about live music, gig economics, and how players actually make it work, this conversation is a clear-eyed, generous guide. Subscribe, share with a musician friend, and leave a review with your take: should clubs prioritize draw or musicianship?Support the show
David Fleming speaks with Al Pitrelli once again about the 2025 tour for Trans-Siberian Orchestra - The Ghosts of Christmas Eve. This is also the 25th anniversary Beethoven's Last Night, so a bit here as well. We'll also touch briefly on Savatage, the group from which TSO sprang. They (finally) started touring again!
Send us a textKen Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas continues the countdown of the ten most-listened-to and most-downloaded episodes of the Sounds of Christmas podcast with this one from November of 2022! In this episode, Ken talks to Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist and music director Al Pitrelli about music, touring and the legacy of Paul O'Neill! Show links:Listen to the Sounds of Christmas stationFind the Sounds of Christmas podcastConnect with the Sounds of Christmas on social mediaCheck out all the artists that are making the 2025 season of the Sounds of Christmas station possibleSupport the show
He was there are the beginning of TSO - and now he's coming to Fargo! Al Pitrelli tells the story of the beginning of TSO, their history, tradition and what to expect from this year's show. This year's tour, "THE GHOSTS OF EVE - THE BEST OF TSO AND MORE" will feature an ALL NEW SHOW and promises to be the BIGGEST and BEST TSO tour to date. TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW AT: www.TRANS-SIBERIAN.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
David Fleming speaks with Al Pitrelli, music director for, and lead guitarist with, Trans-Siberian Orchestra. We'll hear about the tour for this year - The Ghosts of Christmas Eve. This is also the 25th anniversary of Beethoven's Last Night, so there will be special attention paid to that as well.
Al Pitrelli, Trans-Siberian Orchestra's main lead guitarist and live musical director, spends time talking heart-to-heart with us today. TSO is the biggest holiday touring act in the history of the United States, playing to multi-generational, family-friendly crowds for over 25 years. Since 1999, they've played over 2,000 Winter Tour shows for more than 20 million fans and donated over $20 million to local charities. Always a high-octane, pyrotechnic extravaganza, this year's program, "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve", will feature an all-new production alongside a special second set of hits and fan-favorites that includes a 25th-anniversary salute to Beethoven's Last Night. A TSO Christmas concert is something my family looks forward to year after year. Once you attend, you'll be hooked too! Listen in!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, the guys had a interview with Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist, Al Pitrelli, discussed the "Men-Diagram" and chatted about the new Eddie Murphy documentary. Support the show: https://www.klbjfm.com/mattandbobfm/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jeff Plate an American heavy metal drummer who has been a member of Savage since 1994. He is also a member of Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Jack talks about the journey of the band from touring out of one box truck to having to haul their show in 20 semi-tractor trailer trucks. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Rock Camp at the podcast, we welcome Joel Hoekstra, a highly versatile and respected guitar player known for his work with Whitesnake, Night Ranger, Trans Siberian Orchestra, Cher, and Dancing With the Stars. Joel discusses his busy schedule, time management strategies, and the importance of preparation and planning in managing his extensive commitments in music. He shares his experiences with various acts and highlights his involvement in music education and rock camps. Joel elaborates on the challenges and rewards of maintaining a diverse musical career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We spoke with Joel Hoekstra, a guitarist in the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, about the all-new show "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve - The Best of TSO and More" — the biggest and best tour to date. Trans-Siberian Orchestra will be performing at Mohegan Sun on November 30. Enjoy TSO's awe-inspiring rock, classical, and holiday music!
"The Ghosts of Eve - The Best of TSO and More" tour is coming to the Valley. Al Pitrelli, TSO guitarist, joined the show to talk about the tour and what fans can expect.
In today's episode host James Cox sits down with veteran rocker David Ellefson—a guitarist whose love affair with music began at eleven, when the bass line of Bachman‑Turner‑Overdrive's Not Fragile sparked a lifelong obsession. From those early needle‑drops to the thunder of KISS‑era amps, David walks us through the soundtrack of his life: the grind of marching‑band sax, the thrill of early cover‑band gigs, and the relentless quest to chase the songs that saved him from the darkness of depression.We dive deep into David's recent projects—his “No Cover” collection of beloved cuts, the hard‑rock collaboration with Jeff Scott Soto on the new album Unbreakable, and the behind‑the‑scenes stories from legendary Battery Studios in London, the very rooms that birthed Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and even the original Nevermind console. Along the way, we hear anecdotes about the Trans‑Siberian Orchestra, Megadeth's “Big Four” saga, and a poignant moment recording a video right as the world mourned Ozzy Osbourne's passing.If you've ever found solace in a guitar solo, a soaring vocal, or the simple act of pressing play, this conversation is for you. Tune in as we explore how music not only fuels a career but also becomes a lifeline—one chord at a time.
Chatting with guitarist Joel Hoekstra about the upcoming 2025 Trans-Siberian Orchestra tour... along with laundry list of artists he's played and toured with like Whitesnake, Cher, and Night Ranger. Plus, is longevity in the music business and more!
Trans-Siberian Orchestra's Al Pitrelli celebrates the legacy of the band, the massive 2025 winter tour and much more in this exclusive conversation.
Al Pitrelli & The Trans-Siberian Orchestra (9/16/25) by 96.5 WKLH
This week's guests: Jeff Plate from Trans-Siberian Orchestra and comedian Ben Bankas
We kicked off the program with four news stories and different guests on the stories we think you need to know about!TSO's 2025 tour, “Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO & More” will be an ALL NEW SHOW and promises to be the biggest & best TSO tour to date! Coming 11/29/25 to Worcester, MA - DCU Ctr. Guest: Jeff Plate – Member of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra - drums / original member InBoston Magazine's Latest Edition, Featuring Dan Rea! Guest: AnnMarie LaFauci – Editor of InBoston Magazine New results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) reveal a 4-point drop for 8th graders in science, reinforcing the urgent need to expand high-quality, engaging science education for all K–12 students. Guest: Christine Cunningham - Senior Vice President, STEM Learning, Museum of Science and National Assessment Governing Board MemberThe electricity is back at Fenway. And so is the late Luis Tiant. Guest: Rich Tenorio – Boston Globe journalist
Joel Hoekstra tours as a guitarist for Trans-Siberian Orchestra and talks with Jack about his experience with this group. Tickets on sale as of 9-12-25 for a performance on December 10th in Rupp Arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The show begins on a festive note — with drummer Jeff Plate previewing Trans-Siberian Orchestra's dazzling Christmas tour, complete with lasers, pyro, and snow inside the arena. But joy turns quickly to dread as listeners call in about Charlie Kirk's assassination. A self-described amateur rifleman explains how shockingly little skill is needed to carry out such an attack, while others recount overhearing laughter about Kirk's murder in public spaces. Anger and fear rise as calls for firing squads and swift justice echo through the lines. Then the breaking news: the assassin's name. Twenty-two-year-old Tyler Robinson of Utah, a scholarship student, arrested after throwing away his future — and others' lives — in a single horrific act. With the FBI press conference looming, the episode captures a nation reeling: parents praying, citizens demanding vengeance, and a deep unease about security, radicalization, and where this violence will lead next.
Today's episode covers a wide range of intense stories shaping America. We break down the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, the arrest of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson in Utah, and the public's reaction to this national tragedy — from discussions of gun violence and radicalization to the personal impact on families and communities. Amid this, we also highlight a lighter note with an in-depth look at the Trans-Siberian Orchestra's holiday tour, complete with dazzling pyrotechnics, lasers, and emotional performances that have captivated fans for decades. It's a day of stark contrasts: grief and fear, hope and celebration, all reflecting the complexity of life in modern America.
This episode takes listeners on a rollercoaster of emotion. We start with a festive preview of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra's dazzling holiday show — lasers, pyrotechnics, and snow inside the arena, plus insights from drummer Jeff Plate on what makes this tour an annual fan favorite. But the mood shifts sharply as callers react to the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk in Utah. Experts and listeners weigh in on the ease of carrying out such attacks, the suspect's identity, and the broader implications for public safety. Twenty-two-year-old Tyler Robinson, a scholarship student with his whole life ahead of him, is now in custody, sparking anger, grief, and calls for justice. The episode captures a nation grappling with tragedy, security concerns, and the fragility of life in a hyper-connected world.
TSO is coming back to Climate Pledge in November!
Beat Migs! And we chat with Al Pitrelli from TSO about them coming to Climate Pledge Arena!
FRIDAY HR 4 Chris Carson from the City of Mont Dora and Russ announce scarecrow event. Jason Siegel from Greater Orlando Sport Commission Al Pitrelli from Trans Sibrian See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
KMOX's Scott Jagow chats about his Buffalo Bills; John Hancock says he won't join in on sports wagering; Dale Schilly says that CITY SC can make a turnaround this offseason; Trans-Siberian Orchestra will be in STL before Christmas.
Today's show includes the FBI press conference announcing a suspect in the Charlie Kirk shooting; John Hancock sits in for Amy Marxkors; Sean Malone and Scott Jagow from the KMOX newsroom; Dale Schilly previews CITY SC; Al Pitrelli from Trans-Siberian Orchestra; Dennis Jenkerson makes NFL picks; Danan Hughes with a KC Chiefs preview.
H2 - Segment 3 - Charlie Kirk interviews Jeff Plate of The Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Al Pitrelli, guitarist, music director, and original member of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, joins John Hancock and Chris Rongey previewing their new tour, 'Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO & More.' The show makes stops in St Louis at Enterprise Center in late December (12/23).
September 12, 2025 ~ Full Show: Kevin shares the latest with Charlie Kirk assassination suspect. Lomas Brown previews the Lions game against the Bears. Joel Hoekstra, guitarist for the Trans Siberian Orchestra, joins Kevin after announcing their show in Detroit this December. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
September 12, 2025 ~ Joel Hoekstra, guitarist for the Trans Siberian Orchestra, joins Kevin after the Trans Siberian Orchestra recently announced they will be at Little Caesars Arena on December 27th. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Drummer JEFF PLATE of TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA spoke to Bill about the 2025 Trans-Siberian Orchestra Winter Tour "THE GHOSTS OF EVE - THE BEST OF TSO - FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2025 CLEVELAND, OH ROCKET ARENA 3:00PM & 7:30PM
Episode 114 - Haydn Vitera – Mariachi Rock Revolution Our guest today is no stranger to pushing musical boundaries. A classically trained violinist, powerhouse vocalist, and seasoned performer, Haydn Vitera has shared the stage with legends and carved out his own space with a bold new sound. He's the visionary behind Mariachi Rock Revolution, a high-energy fusion of mariachi and rock that's redefining what it means to celebrate cultural heritage through music. In this episode, Haydn talks about his musical journey, the inspiration behind blending mariachi with electrifying rock, and how this unique sound is both honoring tradition and breaking new ground. Event Spotlight Kick off Hispanic Heritage Month with a very special night at the Long Center on Sunday, September 14th: Mariachi Rock Revolution: The Electrified Experience Featuring Haydn Vitera's Mariachi Rock Revolution, The University of Texas Mariachi Paredes, and Grammy-winner Rick Treviño. Benefiting Mariachi Para Todos, part of Austin Soundwaves, which brings mariachi music education to more students across Central Texas. ✨ If you've ever wondered what Trans-Siberian Orchestra would sound like if it was born on the border—this is it! Expect a dynamic blend of tradition and modern energy that celebrates the diverse roots of Hispanic heritage while bringing together music lovers from all walks of life. Event Details: Sunday, September 14th Long Center, Austin, TX Proceeds support Austin Soundwaves' Mariachi Para Todos program Get Tickets - Sunday, September 14, 2025 5:30PM | Long Center
Thom is joined by guitarist Joel Hoekstra to talk about the Trans Siberian Orchestra. Julie Isphording has a conversation with Thom about the factors that contribute to exercise being hard.
Mike The Intern talks with Al Pitrelli about Trans-Siberian Orchestra coming to Springfield on December 5th!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Poducer at Sound Haven 2024, we link up with Tree Gaud and Ozztin — two close friends and rising names in the underground bass scene. From throwing down original edits on the UFO stage to geeking out about lasers at a Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert, this convo covers it all. We get into their unique approaches to performance, like Tree Gaud's “Flip God” set packed with bootlegs and bass, and Ozztin's genre-blurring style that lands somewhere between weird and heavy. They talk about growing up on Grateful Dead, Weird Al, and Adventure Club, and how those early shows shaped their path into electronic music. We also hear the full story of a surprise backstage moment with Skrillex at Soul Quest, and why that night was a turning point. From dreadlock maintenance to military stories and festival bromance, this one's full of wild memories, unexpected tangents, and pure Sound Haven energy.
oel Hoekstra is a powerhouse guitarist known for his technical skill, versatility, and relentless work ethic. Born on December 13, 1970, in Iowa City, Iowa, and raised in a musical household, he started out playing cello and piano. But everything changed when he saw Angus Young of AC/DC on TV—at that moment, he knew guitar was his calling. That inspiration launched a career that would span Broadway stages, stadium tours, and studio sessions with some of the biggest names in rock.Joel first gained wider recognition playing with Night Ranger in the late 2000s. Around the same time, he became a fixture in the Broadway musical Rock of Ages, performing eight shows a week while juggling touring commitments with rock bands. His ability to seamlessly shift between hard rock stages and theater pits set him apart from most guitarists in the scene.He later joined the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, known for their elaborate holiday arena tours, and in 2014, he landed a major gig as guitarist for Whitesnake. Since then, he's toured the world with the band, appearing on albums like The Purple Album and Flesh & Blood, where he also contributed as a songwriter. He's also performed alongside Cher, playing guitar for her Las Vegas residency and her “Here We Go Again” tour, proving he can hold his own in any musical environment.In addition to his high-profile band work, Joel leads his own project, Joel Hoekstra's 13, a melodic hard rock supergroup featuring players like Russell Allen, Vinny Appice, Tony Franklin, and Jeff Scott Soto. The project has released several critically acclaimed albums—Dying to Live (2015), Running Games (2021), and Crash of Life (2023)—with a new one on the way in 2025. The music is a blend of soaring vocals, powerful riffs, and sharp songwriting that showcases Joel's full range as a musician and producer.Outside of performing, Joel is a respected session guitarist and educator. He's contributed to albums by Foreigner, Dee Snider, and many others, and he's shared his expertise in magazines like Guitar World. Whether he's tearing it up onstage with a rock legend or composing intricate solos in the studio, Joel Hoekstra continues to prove why he's one of the most in-demand guitarists in rock today.⸻
This week, we welcome a true music industry veteran — Steve Trudell. Born into the business and raised in the legendary halls of Motown alongside his father, the iconic Johnny Trudell, Steve has spent his life working with some of the biggest names in music, including The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Disturbed, Evanescence, Billy Joel, Peter Gabriel, Rod Stewart,and many more.Now based in Nashville, Steve continues to contract for major tours and is diving into exciting new projects — including a fresh, genre-spanning live show called Y'alls Generation. In this episode, he shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories from decades in the industry, insights into the creative process, and what it takes to keep the music alive on the road and in the studio.