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Blog Topic: Practicing
Analogies: Breathing and the golf swing
As many of my students know, I use analogies almost constantly in lessons. Most teachers find having multiple ways to explain a concept is helpful in connecting with a student. Analogies are one of those ways, so I’ve decided to … Continue reading
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“Never Say Never Again”
I’ve just learned of a great article that I would like all of my students to read. It discusses many myths concerning “absolutes” when learning or teaching a brass instrument. The title says it best, “Never Say Never Again”. The … Continue reading
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Precision trumpet playing-here’s why we aim for it!
I often stress the importance of playing accurately to my students. Rhythm, timing, pitch, articulation, style, purity of sound, evenness of tone in all registers, etc. all make the difference between a good player and a great player. I found … Continue reading
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Wayne Bergeron Masterclass!
Wayne is one of my favorite trumpet players and is just a great guy. I credit Wayne for advising me about an important adjustment of my trumpet playing. He’s a wealth of knowledge and a world class player in every … Continue reading
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Clean Your Trumpet!
A clean trumpet may be the easiest way to give yourself a performance “edge”, and it extends the life of your horn too. It’s just like changing the oil (and other fluids), rotating the tires, routine thorough inspections, and the … Continue reading
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Adolph Herseth: A living legend
Here’s a fun video of a visit to Herseth’s studio in 2009. Bud shows some of his trumpet collection with his sharp wit and humor. I believe he was 88 at the time of the video.
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Hakan Hardenberger Masterclass
A video of a masterclass given by one of Europe’s finest trumpet players. Enjoy!
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The $100 investment that keeps on giving
Before you buy another mouthpiece, spend some money on something that will improve your sound and musicianship far more than an equipment tweak. Good musicians do a great deal of music listening, whether examining their own performances, finding new interpretations, … Continue reading
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Air: Fuel for your brass instrument
When it comes to brass playing and teaching, I believe concepts of air usage are underrated. I’ve noticed this with new private students, clinic situations, state solo/ensemble contests, and observation of various student and amateur ensembles. Many music teachers are … Continue reading
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Exercise the brain too!
Sometimes as brass players we forget to involve the brain as much as we should. Obviously, the brain is always active coordinating our breathing, lips, and fingers so that we may make a good sound and play the right notes … Continue reading
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