Download exercise sheet Trumpet Vibrato Basics I mentioned in my previous post that I feel the best vibrato for trumpet playing is the hand vibrato. Some of the reasons I feel strongly about this form of vibrato over other techniques are- 1. It does not interfere with the basic sound of the note. 2. It is easier to control. 3. It can be turned on and off much easier than other methods. 4. Even though it might not be the best technique for other brass instruments, in my opinion, it is the best technique for the trumpet.…
The Perfect Practice, Rehearsal, Recording Studio- Part 1
If you hear of one, please let me know. Until then, let me show you the best I have ever designed and built. To construct the best of all worlds in these areas is imposable for each requires its own elements. The best recording studio may not have the correct…
Finally! An MRI of a player!
To read more about this breakthrough, check out Here is what happens inside your body when you play a brass instrument.
Preparing for a Show Chapter 5 (concentration issues)
Some shows are physically taxing. Some have endurance problems and some, as in this case, have concentration issues. Due to the constant mute changes, tempo changes and vocal cues, I have found this show to be challenging for my ability to concentrate. Through the years I have discovered helpful tricks…
Preparing for a Show Chapter 4 (preparing your work area)
I must admit, I am much more deliberate in my preparations for a show than the average musician. The reason for this is two-fold; 1. I detest making mistakes 2. I am not the quickest learner in the section Because of these shortcomings, I tend to do much more preparation…
Preparing for a Show Chapter 3 (marking your music)
The Importance of Marking Your Music. Now that you understand the music and checked for any calls for mutes, the next step is to start rehearsals. Most of the time the director is reasonable and understanding during the first couple scheduled rehearsals and everyone learns their responsibilities for the show.…
Preparing for a Show Chapter 2 (setting up your practice routine)
Because of the short notice to play this show, my usual routine had to be changed. Usually I will check over the music to find what challenges it might have such as range, endurance, solos, unusual keys, etc. In this case it was and is a straight forward vocal/skit/comedy show…
Preparing for a Show- Chapter 1 (short notice)
Most often a musician is called to perform in a show in Branson at least a month before the first rehearsal, but recently the norm had changed. A new show is in Branson, “which you should go to if you enjoy New York level performers, excellent music and a trip…
Don’s Dictionary of Delirious Dictum
24/7: The time signature of the national anthem of India. Agent: A character how resents performers getting 90% of his salary. Ballet: An art form for people with eating disorders. Bandstand: The area furthest away from an outlet. Big Band: Currently referring to an aggregation of two musicians. Cabaret: A…
Brass Articulation- Triple Tonguing
From the material you have practiced in the preceding post (Double Tonguing) you should have an understanding of the use of multiple articulations. The next level will be using the Tah and Dah attack along with an additional Tah attack. This Tah Tah Kah articulation is called triple tonguing and…
Brass Articulation- Double Tonguing
Double tonguing was developed to increase the speed at which a player could re-articulate a series of notes. From the time of Arban to the performances of Herbert L. Clark the technique was practiced and improved to the point where these musicians were able to accomplish fantastic performances of extremely…

