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…
Tine Thing Helseth (TEE-nə-ting-HEL-sət)
When listing the talented trumpet players of today, no list would be complete without the name Tine Thing Helseth. Her entrance to the musical stage was quiet and as tasteful as her playing. Not only is she an exceptionally talented young lady which you will hear in this video, but…
We Miss You Don
This video was recommended to me recently and I had to share it for Don Ellis was one of the most innovative musicians of his time and sadly died much to soon in his life. Read more about Don…. Here
Advancements in Trumpet Water Keys
From time to time we run across new innovations for trumpet that actually work. Let me know what you think of this newer approach to trumpet water keys. One of life’s little problems, the sticky Amado Water Key, is now a thing of the past! The Pollard Water Key is…
10 Indications That You Are Too Old To Play Trumpet
10 Indications That You Are Too Old To Play Trumpet. 1. People compliment you on your vibrato when you’re playing a straight tone. 2. Your mutes are green and fuzzy. 3. Your blood pressure is higher than your upper range. 4. You now use your gig bag to carry your…
Rest As Much As You Play
My response to the discussion posted on TPIN There seems to be a flurry of excitement on the TPIN site about the comfort of your lip or the “rest as much as you play” discussion, and for that reason, I would like to add to the discussion. Everyone would like…
Features to Consider when Buying a Trumpet
When deciding on which trumpet/cornet to buy, there are a few guidelines that need to be addressed. The bottom line cost is one of the most obvious questions for most people. Unless you are interested in the ultimate, hand fitted, custom made, work of art, one of a kind horn,…
Even More Interesting Assumptions Proved and Disproved
It seems as if there is an endless list of miracle changes which can be made to your trumpet to make it play better and this is just another idea I wanted to test for myself. Some have criticized me for not “using more individuals and instruments” as test units…
Musical Engraving
With all the new developments in technology, we sometimes forget how things used to be accomplished and for that reason, I thought some of you might be interested in another lost art in the music business. While teaching at our university, I offered music writing manuscript as an elective and…