ChatGPT said: To become a great trumpet player, you need to practice more than just playing songs. You need to build a beautiful tone, strong breath control, accurate technique, a great ear, and musical expression. The secret is consistent, focused practice every day—not simply playing for hours. Even 30–60 minutes of deliberate practice can make a big difference. The 7 things you need to practice Tone and long tones Highest priority Your sound is your identity as a trumpet player. Practice holding comfortable notes with a full, clear, steady sound. Hold notes for 8–12 seconds without squeezing. Keep the sound…
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…
Easy Lip Control Exercise
Being able to bend notes up and down can be very beneficial to a trumpet player. Adjusting notes a little in order to play them in tune as well as having the ability to bend notes in Jazz can be improved with this exercise. When practicing this exercise, try to…
Marshall Lytle (September 1, 1933 – May 25, 2013)
To have had the opportunity to watch this legend of Rock and Roll history perform was memorable, but have had the opportunity to visit with him was a true blessing. The information listed below was excerpted from Wikipedia were you can read more about this true legend. As one of…
Do You Need A Music Riser?
When I was first introduced to the MUSIC RISER I had no idea what it was. It was explained to me that it raises the music off the stand making it easier to read. My first question was, “Why can’t you just raise the music stand”? That seemed like a…
Do You Ever Suffer From Stiff Chops? Part #2
Continuing with our discussion on the problem of stiff chops….. While teaching lessons at my university, I realized that many of our students were complaining about stiff chops or the lack of flexibility. Along with this problem invariably was the observation that their lips seldom felt good. After collecting information…
We Have A Winner! 11 Giant Steps for Mankind (Trumpet Duet)
Here is your challenge! Congratulations to Josh for his continued research and investigation into the multiple connections of the title of this piece. Thanks to the others who participated and we will do this again from time to time when I can’t get to sleep and have the uncontrollable urge…


