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.…
Clifford Brown documentary Preview- Required Viewing
This should be a required DVD for every trumpet player regardless of age or ability. Brownie Speaks can be purchased at the following site…. http://browniespeaks.com/
It Could Only Happen To A Musician- Jim Nabors, Horses and a Mustang
The Jim Nabors Show Jim Nabor shows are seldom known for mishaps and to be in the middle of one can be very entertaining. I was present at one such show and I will try to set it up as accurately as possible. Jim Nabors was in the middle of…
It Could Only Have Happened To A Musician- It Happened At The Circus
If you live long enough, you will have experienced everything. As a member of the senior class, I would like to share personal stories which you may find humorous. Unlike the “How many light bulbs does it take to change a trumpet player? Answer: Unfortunately nothing can change a trumpet…
NPS (No PressureSystem)
This product is no longer on the market !!!!! The following two paragraphs have been reprinted from the original online advertisement and do not reflect my opinion of the product in any way. _____________________________ “The NPS, No Pressing System, is an application that controls the pressure of your lips…
Bird and Diz At Odds
A very good friend sent me this video this morning and I think it is definitely worth sharing.
Habits! Why are they so difficult to break?
“We are creatures of habit”. If you doubt this fact, try taking these simple tests. 1. The next time you brush your teeth, place your tube of tooth paste in the drawer with the cap pointing the opposite direction. 2. Cross your hands and try to place your right thumb…
High Note Entrances Made Easier
Your exposed entrance is coming up and your chances of hitting the high C at a pianissimo dynamic level has been improving but is still at the 50% success level. Here’s the down beat and all eyes are on you. Oops! If you have ever been faced with this humbling…
Update on the “THE PERFECT PERFORMANCE CHAIR/STOOL”!
Few people have realized the importance of my recent discovery of the perfect item of support for every musician. But don’t let that upset you for most people do not understand many of the things I do or say. Ask my wife. This is an update to my first post…
Chet Baker at His Best
Chesney Henry “Chet” Baker, Jr. (December 23, 1929 – May 13, 1988) was an American jazz trumpeter, flugelhornist and vocalist. Baker earned much attention and critical praise through the 1950s, particularly for albums featuring his vocals (Chet Baker Sings, It Could Happen to You). Jazz historian David Gelly described…
A New Way to Appreciate the Clarke Technical Studies Book
Every brass player should recognize the Second Study in the famous Clarke Technical Studies book but seldom are we able to perform it in public. It is with great pride that I now offer to you a concert version of this fine exercise.

