To P.E.T.E or not to P.E.T.E.

Many have reported advantages when using the P.E.T.E. mechanism. For me it didn’t seem to increase the benefits as advertised. Because of this, I decided to search and experiment with something different and hopefully more beneficial. Known fact #1- Most great trumpet players suggest that the best embouchure requires firmness in the corners of the embouchure. Known fact #2- the P.E.T.E. exercises increase strength towards the center of the embouchure. So what’s wrong with this picture? To illustrate my point, read what my former trumpet teacher, Don Jacoby said about this topic in his book “The Trumpet Method of Don…

How to Mark Your Trumpet Music

This is a subject which seldom comes up for we all use our own method when marking our music. Your own system may work for you but in some cases, a more accepted notation could be more effective. I have prepared some examples of the most accepted notations for marking music and will explain each to help you understand their use. RULE #1- ALWAYS MARK IN PENCIL! Download example sheet here Common Markings in Trumpet Parts Example A One of the most frustrating occurrences in symphony playing for a trumpet player is counting measure rests. This is especially true during…