Before we get to the “How Do I’s”, I need to address a few questions which are seldom asked but are equally important: Why is it important to play in tune? Playing “out of tune hurts”. It doesn’t hurt the player but it certainly hurts the listener. If you watch television programs such as “American Idol” or “So You Think You’ve Got Talent” or some equally popular show, you have experienced the horror of amateur singers trying to make it big. When they land on an out of tune note for any length of time, we all seem to have…
Testing A Possible New Way To Tune A Trumpet
This was a recent post on one of the more active trumpet bulletin boards and caught my inquisitive eye. After careful reading I decided to test the good Doctor’s theory. I will reserve my conclusions until our next post so that you will not be biased in any way when…
The Trumpet Ensemble Of Paris
The Trumpet Ensemble of Paris was created in 1981 and I think you will agree that their playing and stage presence is well worth the time listening to. Their style of entertainment is similar to the Canadian Brass quintet; mixing fun and humor with outstanding musicianship. I have included two…
Why Do Trumpet Players Pass Out? Part III
The problem of getting light headed and in some cases passing out is something lead trumpet players are always aware of. The occurrence of these episodes is rare but if you know the cause, you may be able to ward off a serious accident while playing. This entertaining video has…
The Natchez Fire- Part 3 “The Museum”
Now that we have addressed the fire as well as the band and band leader who perished in the Natchez Blaze on April 23, 1940, I would like to introduce you to a couple who have worked diligently to preserve the names and history behind the fire. Their names are…
The Natchez Fire- Part 2 “The Remarkable Walter Barnes”
Walter Barnes was an important figure in history for several reasons. • Mr. Barnes was a popular columnist, writing for the Chicago Defender, the national black news of the day. • Walter Barnes & His Royal Creolians became the first black band to broadcast in Chicago, over WHFC. • Barnes’s…
The Natchez Fire- Part 1
Man has been subjected to many devastating conditions such as the crash of the Hindenburg, the sinking of the Titanic, the earth quake in Haiti and even more currently, school shootings. Each reserved time in the headlines and each was viewed as a tragic happening but some disasters go unnoticed…
How To Be Popular With The Girls
How To Be Popular With The Girls 1. Learn the D Dorian Mode. 2. Wear a blue shirt.
It Could Only Happen In Branson
Many times we in Branson repeat this time worn phrase, “It could only happen in Branson”. It could be stated while waiting for the traffic light to change when suddenly you see a pink Cadillac drive past with Elvis at the wheel. You could be walking down one of the…
A Breathing Lesson With Don “Jake” Jacoby
Voices from the past bring back wonderful recollections of people who have influenced our lives and for that reason I have posted this lecture given by one of my former trumpet teachers, Don Jacoby. The tone and mannerisms in this recording make it almost as if “Jake” were actually in…
Returning Home With Honor- The Branson Trumpet Ensemble
I wrote this number to recognize the people who give so much to our country and who do it in such an unselfish manner. I’m speaking of course of the members of our armed services. This video was recorded at our local college and I hope you enjoy this small…