The Trumpet Gurus Hang

My guest for this episode is J.C. Dobrzelewski. J.C. is a man of action. As a soloist and a founding member of the Grammy-nominated Tromba Mundi trumpet ensemble, J.C. regularly showcases his amazing skills as a classical trumpet player. J.C.  flexes his teaching chops as the trumpet professor at the West Chester University School of Music. And as the Conference Director for the International Trumpet Guild, J.C. uses his organizational skills as a force for good for the trumpet world. Check out what J.C. has to say about teaching at Westchester University, his inspiration to become a teacher, maturing as a teacher, learning to relate to his students, the never ending path of progress, building relationships, being the ITG Conference Director, the benefits and drawbacks of virtual conferences, future plans, the big changes he would like to see, Pacho Flores, surrounding yourself with better people, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about the West Chester School of Music: https://www.wcupa.edu/music/ Catch up with the latest from Tromba Mundi: https://trombamundi.org/ Official home of the International Trumpet Guild: https://www.trumpetguild.org/ It's time to Go Practice with Bryan Davis: https://airflowmusic.com/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ----------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:09 Teaching at Westchester University 00:05:58 His inspiration to become a teacher 00:07:44 Maturing as a teacher 00:11:25 Learning to relate to his students 00:15:05 The never-ending path of progress 00:19:43 Building relationships 00:23:53 Being the ITG Conference Director 00:28:22 The benefits and drawbacks of virtual conferences 00:37:01 Future plans 00:41:27 The big changes he would like to see 00:43:34 Pacho Flores 00:48:20 Surrounding yourself with better people 00:52:50 Go Practice 01:01:19 Sound Off 01:04:10 Geared Up 01:09:18 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Gerard Presencer. Gerard speaks from experience. Gerard has been on the music scene since the ripe old age of 11 years old when he became the youngest trumpeter of England’s National Youth Jazz Orchestra. He rapidly became a sought-after session player, head of the jazz department of the prestigious Royal Academy of Music and head of the brass department at the Jazz Institute of Berlin. But Gerard has recently felt the need to shift from stage and studio to a simpler and purer pursuit of his love for music. Check out what Gerard has to say about his early experiences, his early influences, a rhythmic exercise inspired by Woody Shaw, developing a balanced approach to teaching and playing, finding new ways to express yourself, using four bar blocks to construct a solo, soft quiet and low, the magic of Freddie Hubbard, his passion for teaching, changing his career focus, surprising yourself, practicing being creative, opening yourself up, the challenges of teaching extremely talented students, finding your path, the importance of connection, being a good hang, following your passion, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Gerard at: https://www.facebook.com/GerardPresencerMusic When you need a break from Higher, Faster, and Louder check out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/247188660589795 It's time to Go Practice with Bryan Davis @AirflowMusicNYC : https://airflowmusic.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets --------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:33 His early experiences 00:05:58 His early influences 00:09:12 A rhythmic exercise inspired by Woody Shaw 00:13:31 A balanced approach to teaching and playing 00:19:29 Finding new ways to express yourself 00:23:31 Using four bar blocks to construct a solo 00:27:23 Soft quiet and low 00:30:03 The magic of Freddie Hubbard 00:32:29 His passion for teaching 00:36:29 Changing his career focus 00:40:45 Surprising yourself 00:42:40 Practicing being creative 00:45:22 Opening yourself up 00:48:13 The challenges of teaching extremely talented students 00:57:10 Finding your path 01:04:36 The importance of connection 01:09:14 Being a good hang 01:11:17 Following your passion 01:14:50 Go Practice 01:23:24 Sound Off 01:27:41 Geared Up 01:33:11 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Bobby Medina. Bobby has been around the block. Originally from Los Angeles, Bobby toured the world, playing with many of the top names in the music industry, before settling down in Seattle. Bobby has built a successful career as a player, composer, and booking agent, and most recently, Bobby has teamed with Paul Baron to put his experience and musical passion to work helping players, young and old, reach a higher level. Check out what Bobby has to say about starting his Facebook group, the need to make adjustments as we get older, figuring things out, studying with Jimmy Stamp, the importance of having a mentor, becoming your own best teacher, seeing the big picture when you practice, keeping the fun in your practice, his early musical influences, the booking business, how to become more hirable, his attitude about gigs, deciding to put family first, being open to opportunity, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Find out more about Bobby at: https://bobbymedina.com/ It's time to Go Practice with Bryan Davis: https://airflowmusic.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:06 Starting his Facebook group 00:07:18 The need to make adjustments as we get older 00:11:41 Figuring things out 00:14:35 Studying with Jimmy Stamp 00:18:26 The importance of having a mentor 00:21:09 Becoming your own best teacher 00:27:04 Seeing the big picture when you practice 00:31:47 Keeping the fun in your practice 00:37:58 His early musical influences 00:41:06 The booking business 00:45:14 How to become more hirable 00:51:42 His attitude about gigs 00:53:53 Deciding to put family first 00:59:37 Being open to opportunity 01:02:32 Go Practice 01:07:24 Sound Off 01:11:03 Geared Up 01:15:11 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Chris Tedesco. Chris is a busy guy. Chris is one of Los Angeles' top-call session players. His trumpet has been heard on hundreds of movie soundtracks, television shows, video games, and records since 1987. Chris is also a busy music contractor whose goal is to help his fellow musicians stay busy and keep the LA recording scene thriving. Plus, he’s always down for a good hang. Check out what Chris has to say about getting started as a professional musician, lessons from the road, heading back home, advice to young players, music and the power of connection, mutual connections, the early days of the music industry, the global community of music, why music is a people business, contracting, preparing to become a studio musician, assets and liabilities, doing what you love, getting started as a contractor, learning The Stamp Method, why you should know who you're working with, financial advice for young musicians, finding what works for you, the behavior that will keep you from getting calls, how word of mouth can make or break your career, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Find out more about Chris at: http://www.christedesco.com Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets --------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:06 Getting started as a professional musician 00:09:53 Lessons from the road 00:14:16 Heading back home 00:16:17 Advise to young players 00:19:53 Music and the power of connection 00:22:34 Mutual connections 00:29:37 The early days of the music industry 00:33:02 The global community of music 00:39:41 Why music is a people business 00:42:20 Contracting 00:44:41 Preparing to become a studio musician 00:52:10 Assets and liabilities 00:57:09 Doing what you love 01:05:29 Getting started as a contractor 01:11:52 Learning The Stamp Method 01:13:50 Know who you're working with 01:15:32 Financial advice for young musicians 01:17:38 Finding what works for you 01:20:20 Behavior that will keep you from getting calls 01:26:18 How word of mouth can make or break your career 01:30:10 Go Practice 01:43:38 Sound Off 01:48:25 Geared Up 02:00:12 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Andy Kozar. Andy is a groundbreaker. Andy started his career with dreams of becoming an orchestral player, but while studying at the Eastman School of Music, Andy was bitten by the new music bug. Since then, Andy has become a prominent voice in both the performance and composition of contemporary music. As a faculty member at the Longy School of Music, Andy is opening the ears and minds of a new generation of musicians, and his new book Response is his contribution to making trumpet playing a little bit easier for us all. Check out what Andy has to say about growing up in Pittsburgh, his introduction to the world of new music, the dichotomy of new music, developing the skills to play new music, how to learn more about new music, being and educator, finding your path, the joys of playing standard repertoire, the importance of having varied tastes, the inspirations for his book Response, different approaches to learning and teaching, what makes a great pedagogue, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Check out Andy’s book Response: A Guide to an Easier Way of Trumpet Playing: http://www.andykozar.com/response.html Get into some new music with A Few Kites: Music for Trumpet and Electronics: https://andykozar.bandcamp.com/album/a-few-kites Get the lowdown on Andy’s ensemble loadbang:  www.loadbang.com Learn about the Longy School of Music of Bard College: www.longy.edu Need help developing your practice routine? Check out all of the great resources at the Airflow Music website:  https://airflowmusic.com Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets -------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:38 Growing up in Pittsburgh 00:07:27 His introduction to the world of new music 00:16:36 The dichotomy of new music 00:21:05 Developing the skills to play new music 00:30:24 How to learn more about new music 00:33:11 Being and educator 00:39:42 Finding your path 00:42:49 The joys of playing standard repertoire 00:46:06 The importance of having varied tastes 00:48:13 The inspirations for his book Response 00:55:10 Different approaches to learning and teaching 00:57:58 What makes a great pedagogue 01:00:41 Go Practice 01:08:11 Sound Off 01:11:21 Geared Up 01:18:45 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is William Leathers. William is a trendsetter. A recent graduate of the famed Julliard School of music, William is already setting the trumpet world on fire. As the newly appointed principal trumpet for both the Nashville Symphony Orchestra and the Santa Fe Opera, William brings a combination of old-world style and modern-day swagger to the classical music scene. Check out what William has to say about being unique, pulling together varied musical influences, the blessing and curse of having perfect pitch, how his perfect pitch manifests itself, developing skills, structure and mindset, the importance of preparation, designing his Vennture Mouthpiece Signature line, how to successfully prepare for an audition, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Need help developing your practice routine? Check out all of the great resources at Airflow Music: https://airflowmusic.com Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets -------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:26 Being unique 00:07:00 Pulling together varied musical influences 00:14:26 The blessing and curse of having perfect pitch 00:20:59 How his perfect pitch manifests itself 00:24:40 Developing skills 00:31:48 Structure and mindset 00:37:38 The importance of preparation 00:43:49 Designing his Vennture Mouthpiece Signature line 01:01:22 How to successfully prepare for an audition 01:05:44 Go Practice 01:10:12 Sound Off 01:19:28 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Charlie Bertini. Charlie is a man of many talents. Charlie started his professional playing career while still in the ninth grade when he formed his own dance band in upstate New York. Charlie went on to build his impressive chops playing trumpet for the Clyde Beaty-Cole Brothers circus. Charlie is top caliber performer, a passionate educator, a record producer, a concert promoter, and the founder of the AppleJazz record label. And he shows no signs of slowing down. Check out what Charlie has to say about Tyler Jaeger, what young players need, taking advantage of opportunities, his first professional band, trial by fire in the circus, becoming fearless, why you need to keep your brain moving forward, slow practice, building brain power, drawing out a great studio performance, different approaches to playing, microphones, the energy of the trumpet bell, what makes a great studio experience, bringing the music to life, the rewards of live performance and teaching, starting the Apple Jazz record label, truth in the performance, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Find out more about Charlie at: https://charliebertini.com/ Check out the offerings from Apple Jazz Records: https://www.applejazz.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets -------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:47 Tyler Jaeger 00:05:23 What young players need 00:10:04 Taking advantage of opportunities 00:12:11 His first professional band 00:14:37 Trial by fire in the circus 00:21:15 Becoming fearless 00:23:18 Why you need to keep your brain moving forward 00:25:39 Slow practice 00:31:10 Building brain power 00:35:38 Drawing out a great studio performance 00:42:59 Different approaches to playing 00:45:57 Microphones 00:51:26 The energy of the trumpet bell 00:55:18 What makes a great studio experience 00:57:05 Bringing the music to life 01:04:02 The rewards of live performance and teaching 01:07:00 Starting the Apple Jazz record label 01:13:10 Truth in the performance 01:17:13 Sound Off 01:19:41 Geared Up 01:26:39 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Rich Wetzel. Rich is all about the work. Whether it’s in the practice room or in the gym, Rich understands the importance of having a strategic approach if you want to achieve dramatic improvements. Rich has proven himself as a powerful lead trumpet player, a successful salesman, and, most recently, as an award-winning bodybuilder. Rich is a living testament that you are never too old to recreate your mind, your body, and your life. Check out what Rich has to say about practice room chops, having a consistent approach, the importance of recovery, mixing things up, the Frank Minear Method, getting gig ready, finding what works best for you, ah-ha moments, inspiring others to create change, keeping things simple, tips on how to improve your health and trumpet playing, combining music and business, building a career in music, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:34 Practice room chops 00:08:07 Having a consistent approach 00:11:35 The importance of recovery 00:16:08 Mixing things up 00:19:13 The Frank Minear Method 00:26:11 Getting gig ready 00:28:41 Finding what works best for you 00:31:24 Ah-ha moments 00:41:57 Inspiring others to create change 00:50:12 Keeping things simple 00:57:00 Tips on how to improve your health and trumpet playing 01:02:48 Combining music and business 01:11:08 Building a career in music 01:15:40 Sound Off 01:18:23 Geared Up 01:21:14 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Nathan Warner. Nathan is an eclectic guy. His path has led him from attending the Interlochen Arts Camp to a bachelor's degree in Jazz Studies at the Indiana School of Music, a master’s degree in classical trumpet from the Manhattan School of Music, and finally, a DMA from Stony Brook University. He’s a busy performer, passionate educator, and co-founder of the Apex Trumpet Symposium. And he manages to do everything with some serious swag and perfect hair. Check out what Nathan has to say about How the Apex Trumpet Symposium was born, toxic environments, giving permission to be where you are, learning to live with uncertainty, the importance of the struggle, aligning with his motivations, dealing with the negative voices, spirituality and music, the sound of Gabriel's trumpet, the importance of having your own voice, being the best version of yourself, the roles of affirmation and confrontation, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Get the skinny on Nathan at: https://www.nathanplaystrumpet.com/ Interested in learning more about the Apex Trumpet Symposium? https://apextrumpet.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:56 How the Apex Trumpet Symposium was born 00:17:56 Toxic environments 00:23:41 Giving permission to be where you are 00:37:25 Learning to live with uncertainty 00:43:32 The importance of the struggle 00:48:26 Aligning with his motivations 00:50:29 Dealing with the negative voices 00:54:11 Spirituality and music 00:59:39 The sound of Gabriel's trumpet 01:07:42 The importance of having your own voice 01:16:12 Being the best version of yourself 01:23:01 The roles of affirmation and confrontation 01:28:01 Sound Off 01:31:53 Geared Up 01:39:06 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Vinnie Ciesielski. Vinnie returns for a second round at The Hang to discuss his new project, Vinnie and the Hitmen, a 15-piece horn-driven band that features some of Nashville’s heaviest hitters. But Vinnie’s vision of The Hitmen is not just about knockout performances; it’s also about touching the lives of young musicians to show them that anything is possible when you have enough passion and are willing to put in the work that it takes to go be awesome. Check out what Vinnie has to say about the birth of Vinnie And The Hitmen, deciding to record public domain Christmas music, creative arrangements, school concerts, speaking your vision into existence, why now is the perfect moment, why music is life-changing, being awesome, repetitive excellence, advice for building a career in music, the shifting landscape of the recording industry, joint ventures, being a better bandleader, becoming clear on your career objectives, his definition of success, why you need to support artists, inspiration and advise, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- To order your copy of “A Hitmen Christmas” head to: https://trumpetvinnie.com/shop/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets -------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:49 The birth of Vinnie And The Hitmen 00:06:30 Deciding to record public domain Christmas music 00:09:18 Creative arrangements 00:14:00 School concerts 00:15:36 Speaking your vision into existence 00:23:53: Why now is the perfect moment 00:27:44 Why music is life-changing 00:35:49 Being awesome 00:38:18 Repetitive excellence 00:45:45 Advice for building a career in music 00:52:36 The shifting landscape of the recording industry 00:56:25 Joint ventures 01:00:41 A sneak preview 01:06:56 Being a better bandleader 01:13:18 Becoming clear on your career objectives 01:19:57 His definition of success 01:27:44 Another sneak peek 01:31:38 Why you need to support artists 01:36:42 Inspiration and advise 01:41:34 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Theresa May.   Theresa is on a mission. From her early experiences in the Salvation Army Band to her current work with the group Mourning [A] BLKstar, Theresa has always understood the power of music. After earning her master’s degree in music performance from the Cincinnati University  Conservatory of Music, Theresa has made it her mission to spread the gospel of music’s ability to change the world and to be a bold voice for the underrepresented.    Check out what Theresa has to say about the Cleveland music scene, her early musical influences, coming full circle, the biggest lessons she has learned from her classical training, the importance of the groove, making a statement with your music, stereotypes in the music industry, taking responsibility for change, lessons from her father, finding her direction, her musical heroes, the importance of having fun, creating a safe space for improvement, her decision to build a career in Cleveland, defining personal success, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Find out more about Theresa and her projects at: https://www.theresamaytrumpet.com/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ---------------------------------------------------------------------  0:00:00 Intro  0:02:07 The Cleveland music scene 0:06:54 Her early musical influences  0:08:10 Coming full circle  0:12:20 The biggest lessons she has learned from her classical training  0:14:04 The importance of the groove  0:16:44 Making a statement with your music  0:23:13 Stereotypes in the music industry  0:30:48 Taking responsibility for change  0:37:52 Lessons from her father  0:44:54 Finding her direction  0:48:33 Her musical heroes  0:52:43 The importance of having fun  0:57:39 Creating a safe space for improvement  1:03:16 Her decision to build a career in Cleveland  1:09:09 Defining personal success  1:12:58 Sound Off  1:15:07 Geared Up  1:18:17 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Phil Snedecor. Phil is all about the music. A graduate of the Eastman School of Music, Phil built a busy career performing and teaching in the Greater Washington DC area. He is also an accomplished composer and arranger whose etude books have become required material in many Trumpet studios and is currently Trumpet professor at the Hartt School. But whether it’s on the stage, in the classroom, or through his prolific writing, Phil always wants to keep the music at the forefront. Check out what Phil has to say about the difference between adjunct and tenure track teaching positions, life outside of the Capital Beltway, mobile warm-ups, the role of a teacher, learning life skills in the practice room, finding balance, studying at Eastman, solving technical problems by playing music, the most common shortcoming of young players, instilling a passion for listening, new voices, why perfect playing isn't always enjoyable, Wynton Marsalis and the cultural impact of music, the inspiration for his etude books, the importance of imagination, writing books for the modern trumpet player, the need for versatility, why he enjoys playing in a variety of musical settings, and so much more. So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about Phil at: https://www.philsnedecor.com Need etudes? Go to https://www.pasmusic.com Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:05:21 The difference between adjunct and tenure tracked teaching positions 00:07:03 Life outside of the Capital Beltway 00:08:50 Mobile warm-ups 00:10:56 The role of a teacher 00:13:23 Learning life skills in the practice room 00:15:52 Finding balance 00:19:09 Studying at Eastman 00:22:47 Solving technical problems by playing music 00:25:49 The most common shortcoming of young players 00:30:04 Instilling a passion for listening 00:33:06 New voices 00:35:23 Why perfect playing isn't always enjoyable 00:38:25 Wynton Marsalis and the cultural impact of music 00:43:14 The inspiration for his etude books 00:46:36 The importance of imagination 00:52:18 Writing books for the modern trumpet player 00:57:22 The need for versatility 01:00:47 Why he enjoys playing in a variety of musical settings 01:03:58 Sound Off 01:09:32 Geared Up 01:13:45 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Marcus Grant. Marcus is a go-getter. In addition to his career as a player and composer, Marcus is also a professor of Music Theory and Aural Skills at Virginia Commonwealth University, the Co-Founder and Director of the Trumpeter’s Multitrack Competition and Seminar, Vice President of Diversify The Stand, and a member of the Executive Board of the National Trumpet Competition. Good thing he loves what he does. Check out what Marcus has to say about the truth about his teachers, being bitten by the teaching bug, the impact of his teachers, the blessing and curse of social media, the birth of the Trumpet Multitrack Competition and Seminars, the importance of accessibility, what's in store for TMTCS, his role with the National Trumpet Competition, preparing for the future of trumpet playing, why you need to understand music theory, the process of improvement, his compositional projects, and so much more. So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Find out more about Marcus and his projects here: https://www.msgrantmusic.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:25 The truth about his teachers 00:04:43 Being bitten by the teaching bug 00:07:49 The impact of his teachers 00:10:54 The blessing and curse of social media 00:18:48 The birth of the Trumpet Multitrack Competition and Seminars 00:27:01 The importance of accessibility 00:29:33 What's in store for TMTCS 00:33:56 His role with the National Trumpet Competition 00:44:37 Preparing for the future of trumpet playing 00:55:16 Why you need to understand music theory 01:00:56 The process of improvement 01:06:59 His compositional projects 01:16:16 Sound Off 01:19:19 Geared Up 01:21:58 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Chris Smith.   Chris is a man of action. After an eight-year tour of duty with the “President’s Own” United States Marine Corp band and an eleven-year run with the Orchestre Symphonique de Montreal, Chris is currently the Principle Trumpet for the San Diego Symphony Orchestra. An avid athlete, Chris takes a sports-specific training approach to trumpet practice and a hall of fame coach's mentality to winning auditions.   Check out what Chris has to say about shifting musical gears, the need to adjust his approach to practice, marathons or sprints, sport-specific practice, etudes, the requirements of a successful career, the disconnect between practice and performing, training for an audition, how schools can better prepare their students for the audition process, the truth about the audition process, the importance of good coaching, how he improved his audition chops, finding focus, finding what works best for you, longevity, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Follow Chris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trombachris Find Chris On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.smith1911 Chris Smith's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChristopherSmithTrumpet Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ----------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:04:37 Shifting musical gears  00:12:54 The need to adjust his approach to practice  00:16:02 Marathons or sprints  00:23:45 Sport specific practice  00:32:37 Etudes  00:38:17 The requirements of a successful career  00:43:20 The disconnect between practice and performing  00:47:25 Training for an audition  00:54:44 How schools can better prepare their students for the audition process  01:01:10 The truth about the audition process  01:05:00 The importance of good coaching  01:09:41 How he improved his audition chops  01:21:00 Finding focus  01:26:50 Finding what works best for you  01:33:34 Longevity  01:37:14 Sound Off  01:45:20 The importance of recording yourself  01:48:43 Geared Up  01:59:57 Rapid Fire Round

On August 19, 2022, The trumpet world lost a shining star with the passing of Dan Miller.   Everything about Dan was larger than life. He was a big guy with a big smile and a huge heart.   Dan had an encyclopedic knowledge of jazz trumpet that he was always willing to share with anyone who asked.   As a player, Dan had a massive sound that could fill up a room. Every note Dan played oozed with his passion for life and music.    But perhaps one of his greatest attributes was his skill as a teacher and mentor to young players.   And so I felt it was only fitting to do this tribute to a man who brightened the lives of so many trumpet players, both directly and indirectly.   In this special episode, I talk with three Trumpet Gurus who came into Dan’s life during different chapters. We start with Brad Goode, who was an early teacher of Dan’s and who helped fan the flame of Dan’s passion for jazz history. Next, I talk with Kenny Rampton, who spent years playing with Dan in New York and who became like a second brother. Then I talk with Dan’s young protege, Nathaniel Wiliford, about Dan’s teaching and mentoring. And finally, I am joined by Dan’s brother Dave Miller who puts Dan’s entire life into perspective.   So please join us in this celebration of the life and contributions of Dan Miller.  -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  To learn more about Dan and for updates on the Dan Miller Jazz Master Memorial Scholarship Fund, visit https://www.danmillerjazz.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:01:28 Brad Goode on meeting Dan  00:09:20 Honoring the lineage  00:14:06 Dan as a player  00:17:04 Dan's influence on him  00:18:38 Dan's legacy  00:21:24 Final thoughts  00:23:20 Kenny Rampton  00:23:50 Working with Dan  00:25:45 Dan's encyclopedic knowledge  00:28:14 Dan's heart  00:34:22 Dan's impact on his life  00:37:15 How Dan helped him find the perfect plunger  00:39:31 Dan as a lead trumpet player  00:40:53 Living life on his own terms  00:42:14 Dan's legacy  00:42:36 Dan and his family  00:46:13 How we can honor Dan's legacy  00:52:58 Dan and his cup mute  00:57:22 Nathaniel Wiliford  00:58:03 The start of their relationship  01:04:33 Dan as a teacher  01:07:25 What's been hardest for him  01:10:35 The last time he spoke with Dan  01:11:17 Dan's concern for others  01:16:03 The best word to describe Dan  01:21:54 Being grateful for their relationship  01:26:39 Dan's legacy  01:30:17 Passing on Dan's legacy  01:38:20 Dave Miller  01:39:12 Growing up in a musical household  01:42:28 Dan's major inspirations  01:43:57 Moving to New York  01:45:57 Their relationship 01:49:09 Dan's impact on others 01:50:51 Their shared drive for deep knowledge 01:52:31 Their shared passion for education 01:56:07 The legacy of Dan Miller 01:58:47 How we can best honor Dan 02:00:23 How he wants others to remember Dan

My guest for this episode is Paul Merkelo.    Paul is a multi-tasker. In addition to his duties as the Principal Trumpet of the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal, Paul is also a highly sought-after soloist. He has traveled the world performing both old and new works and recently completed his fifth solo recording project. And in his spare time, Paul is on the faculty of two universities - McGill University in Montreal and The Music Academy of The West in Santa Barbara. All in a day's work.    Check out what Paul has to say about the truth about Joey Tartell, Illinois vs Montreal, the viability of a career as an orchestral trumpet player, full-time gigs vs freelancing, balancing the demands as a principal player and a soloist, managing your practice, mixing things up, making a statement with your playing, transcending technique, honoring the work, keeping things fresh and challenging, the role of the ego, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  For all things Paul, including ordering his newest recording of trumpet concertos by Arutionian, Shostakovich, and Weinberg, go to: http://www.paulmerkelotrumpet.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00:00 Intro  00:02:10:20 The truth about Joey Tartell  00:04:13:02 Illinois vs Montreal  00:07:17:20 The viability of a career as an orchestral trumpet player  00:12:44:22 Full-time gigs vs freelancing  00:16:08:03 Balancing the demands as a principal player and a soloist  00:22:11:13 Managing your practice  00:29:30:16 Mixing things up  00:35:36:07 Making a statement with your playing  00:47:20:21 Transcending technique  00:57:51:20 Honoring the work  01:06:29:20 Keeping things fresh and challenging  01:10:31:08 The role of the ego  01:15:06:20 Sound Off  01:20:12:11 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Jeff Purtle. Jeff is a systematic kind of guy. As a student of the legendary Claude Gordon, Jeff was taught more than just how to play the trumpet. Jeff absorbed Claude’s passion for teaching and his knack for helping students develop a systematic approach to daily practice. Jeff is thoughtful, insightful, and a lifelong learner. And he is always willing to help others find a better way. Check out what Jeff has to say about creating digital content, how he began studying with Claude Gordon, Claude Gordon's teaching style, his big takeaways from his time with Claude Gordon, the benefits and pitfalls of teaching trumpet online, adjusting teaching styles, the most important things to practice, important method books, newer and lesser known method books, keeping up a personal practice routine, and so much more. So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Want to know more about Jeff? Check out his website: https://www.purtle.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ----------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:05:00 Creating digital content 00:08:21 How he began studying with Claude Gordon 00:17:30 Claude Gordon's teaching style 00:24:42 His big takeaways from his time with Claude Gordon 00:30:11 The benefits and pitfalls of teaching trumpet online 00:41:08 Adjusting teaching styles 00:48:00 The most important things to practice 00:52:03 Important method books 00:54:55 Newer and lesser known method books 01:03:23 Keeping up a personal practice routine 01:09:12 Sound Off 01:14:15 Geared Up 01:18:38 Rapid Fire Round

Chop problems. Just hearing those words sends shivers down the spine of amateur and professional trumpet players alike.   The thought of not being able to play the trumpet is something that creeps around in the deepest and darkest parts of our brains.   Most of the time, it is an irrational fear. But sometimes, the fear becomes very real.   The question is, is it possible to come back from chop problems?   Sometimes the answer is no.  But often, the answer could be yes, but only if you know where to look for help.   This special compilation episode of The Trumpet Gurus Hang features six of my past guests who have not only overcome chop problems but have turned their temporary setbacks into a setup for greater success.   Check out Bryan Davis on the process of recovering from overuse and playing the hard way, Mike Sailors on reviving broken down chops due to improper technique, Kenny Robinson on his method of dealing with cold sores, Craig Kenney on recovering from Bell's Palsy, Rich Willey on the importance of having the right mental attitude, and Brad Goode on recovering from traumatic injury.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ---------------------------------------------------------------  Find out more about Bryan Davis at: https://bryandav.is/ Connect with Mike Sailors at: https://www.mikesailors.com/ Check out Ken Robinson at: https://www.kgrmusic.com/ Connect with Craig Kenney at: https://www.facebook.com/craig.kenney.5 Find Rich Willey at: https://www.boptism.com/ Learn more about Brad Goode at: https://www.bradgoode.com Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:01:00 Bryan Davis on recovering from overuse and playing the hard way  00:14:51 Mike Sailors on broken down chops due to improper technique  00:23:43 Kenny Robinson on dealing with cold sores  00:30:34 Craig Kenney on recovering from Bell's Palsy  00:41:17 Rich Willey on the importance of having the right mental attitude  00:50:52 Brad Goode on recovering from traumatic injury  01:04:50 Wrap up

My guest for this episode is Adam MacBlane.   Adam is all about finding the right tool for the job. After receiving his Master of Music in Instrumental Performance degree, Adam shifted his focus from being behind the bell to the manufacturing and marketing side of the trumpet world. His deep dive into the art and science of trumpet design gave Adam a unique perspective that he uses in his company, Niche Trumpet, to help players find the right horn for their specific needs.   Check out what Adam has to say about the origin of Tommy The High Note Police, his start with P Mauriat, retail vs. manufacturing, fitting a player to the right horn, becoming a gear geek, manufacturing mentors, the evolution of Carol Brass, designing the new Michael Williams model trumpet, the impact of bell material on sound, his personal preference for horns, the advantage of a smaller mouthpiece, rim size and backbones, the advantage of keeping it simple, quieting the noise, why everyone should learn how to improvise, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Let Adam help you find your next horn: https://nichetrumpet.com/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  --------------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:02:57 The origin of Tommy The High Note Police  00:04:31 His start with P Mauriat  00:06:28 Retail vs. manufacturing  00:11:33 Fitting a player to the right horn  00:14:40 Becoming a gear geek  00:16:46 Manufacturing mentors  00:19:38 The evolution of Carol Brass  00:25:22 Designing the new Michael Williams model trumpet  00:31:30 The impact of bell material on sound  00:33:25 His personal preference for horns  00:40:40 The advantage of a smaller mouthpiece  00:44:39: Rim size and backbones  00:46:41 The advantage of keeping it simple  00:49:31 Quieting the noise  00:53:26 Why everyone should learn how to improvise  00:54:58 Sound Off  00:57:14 Geared Up  01:00:25 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Nathaniel Williford. Nathaniel is an old soul. At the ripe old age of 17, Nathaniel has already begun to make an impression on the trumpet world. Nathaniel’s beautiful sound, improvisational skills, and command of the trumpet’s upper register have earned him numerous awards and accolades. But what has caught the attention of many of the top names in the business is not Nathaniel’s chops; it’s his humility, sincerity, maturity, and dedication to his craft. Check out what Nathaniel has to say about his relationship with Dan Miller, why the hang is so important, mentoring and motivation, the need for versatility, the difference between playing and practicing, being in love with the trumpet, staying motivated, winning the Essentially Ellington Competition, keeping the music first, future plans, remote recording, his ideal career, beginning his musical journey, balancing music and life, having respect for all kinds of music, social media, working on his writing chops, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets --------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:16 His relationship with Dan Miller 00:06:01 Why the hang is so important 00:10:46 Mentoring and motivation 00:15:21 The need for versatility 00:17:20 The difference between playing and practicing 00:22:08 Being in love with the trumpet 00:24:45 Staying motivated 00:28:54 Winning the Essentially Ellington Competition 00:35:39 Keeping the music first 00:37:40 Future plans 00:43:13 Remote recording 00:46:30 His ideal career 00:50:11 Begining his musical journey 00:56:45 Balancing music and life 01:00:33 Having respect for all kinds of music 01:03:56 Social media 01:07:24 Working on his writing chops 01:09:17 Sound Off 01:15:30 Geared Up 01:23:05 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Jumaane Smith.  Jumaane is kickin’ it old school. As the lead trumpet player for Michael Buble, Jumaane has toured the world playing in sold-out concert halls and packed stadiums. His playing combines the lyricism of the old masters with some modern-day swagger. Jumaane can bring the heat with his horn, or he can make it sweet with his smooth vocals. Because no matter what he does, it’s always about the music.   Check out what Jumaane has to say about how it feels to play with Michael Buble, ways to hear yourself onstage, learning to play by feel, his influences, the benefits of singing, the lessons he's learned working with great vocalists, dealing with the haters, his favorite musical setting, gratitude, change, developing as a trumpet player, a melodic approach to lead trumpet playing, the current state of jazz, the impact of Wynton Marsalis, what it takes to become a great player, his approach to practice, why practice should be consistent and efficient, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Jumaane Smith’s official webpage: https://www.jumaanesmith.com/  Catch Jumaane on tour with Michael Buble: https://www.michaelbuble.com/?frontpage=true  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -----------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:03:01 How it feels to play with Michael Buble  00:08:31 Ways to hear yourself onstage  00:10:17 Learning to play by feel  00:16:38 His influences  00:17:48 The benefits of singing  00:21:03 The lessons he's learned working with great vocalists  00:24:22 Dealing with the haters  00:28:52 His favorite musical setting  00:30:42 Gratitude  00:34:40 Change  00:35:52 Developing as a trumpet player  00:39:51 A melodic approach to lead trumpet playing  00:41:23 The current state of jazz  00:48:46 The impact of Wynton Marsalis  00:55:02 What it takes to become a great player  00:59:22 His approach to practice  01:03:13 Why practice should be consistent and efficient  01:07:11 Sound Off  01:11:10 Geared Up  01:18:05 The importance of troubleshooting skills  01:19:07 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Mark Upton.   Mark is trumpet royalty. The son of two professional trumpet players, Mark was destined to become a world-class player. As the principal trumpeter for The Royal Marines Band, Mark regularly performed for The Royal Family and his powerful playing has been featured in performances at The Royal Albert Hall. And as the trumpet tutor at the Royal Marines School of Music, Mark is paving the way for a new generation of amazing Royal musicians.   Check out what Mark has to say about being a military musician, the diverse requirements of the Royal Band, The Royal Marines School of Music, his COVID project, Larry Meregillano's Compression Traning System, studying with Dereck Watkins, growing up with trumpet-playing parents, refining his sound, programming his Trumpet Legacy feature, developing your own voice, focusing on fundamentals, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Find out more about Mark at his website: http://markupton-uk.com/  Check out Mark's tribute to some of the greatest jazz trumpeters in his Trumpet Legacy performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMwQjbWr10w  Take your chops to the next level with Larry Mereglliano's Compression Training System: https://www.trumpetlegacy.com/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:03:26 Being a military musician  00:06:36 The diverse requirements of the Royal Band  00:09:17 The Royal Marines School of Music  00:12:45 His COVID project  00:16:05 Larry Meregillano's Compression Traning System  00:22:10 Studying with Dereck Watkins  00:28:15 Growing up with trumpet-playing parents  00:32:04 Refining his sound  00:34:22 Programming his Trumpet Legacy feature  00:43:15 Developing your own voice  00:49:56 Focusing on fundamentals  00:57:35 Sound Off  01:00:48 Geared Up  01:10:31 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Mike Sailors Mike is committed to figuring things out. A talented performer, composer, and educator, Mike’s career was almost cut short by severe chop problems. With the help of Trumpet Gurus like Rich Willey, Bryan Davis, and Peter Bond, Mike went on to forge a successful career in New York City before returning to his Alma Mater in Austin, Texas where he is committed to helping a new generation of trumpet players avoid the same mistakes that he made. Check out what Mike has to say about his major chop issues, finding solutions, poor pedagogy, overcoming poor pedagogy, today's great thinkers on trumpet pedagogy, a more natural approach to playing the trumpet, the problem with playing too loud, his career arc, being an educator, finding your passion, why it's tough living in New York, developing the skills to be a jazz player, his approach to practice, playing by feel, how to make your practice time more efficient, his three main cats, the most important musician of our time, tips for playing high notes, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with Mike Sailors at: https://www.mikesailors.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets --------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00:00 Intro 00:03:07:22 His major chop issues 00:06:55:17 Finding solutions 00:08:04:08 Poor pedagogy 00:09:15:04 Overcoming poor pedagogy 00:12:16:12 Today's great thinkers on trumpet pedagogy 00:14:52:08 A more natural approach to playing the trumpet 00:19:42:21 The problem with playing too loud 00:24:22:24 His career arc 00:31:01:00 Being an educator 00:33:52:05 Finding your passion 00:38:18:23 Why it's tough living in New York 00:47:12:21 Developing the skills to be a jazz player 00:53:13:01 His approach to practice 00:54:57:21 Playing by feel 00:56:57:23 How to make your practice time more efficient 01:01:32:05 His three main cats 01:07:38:18 The most important musician of our time 01:10:58:22 Sound Off 01:14:42:21 Geared Up 01:23:02:17 Tips for playing high notes 01:27:16:11 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Joey Tartell.   Joey is one-of-a-kind. Never one to let popular conventions limit him, Joey is not only well-respected in the jazz world as a dazzling lead player but is also a highly accomplished classical musician and founding member of the trumpet ensemble Tromba Mundi. Joey is a passionate educator who is never at a loss for words and is dedicated to his calling to “rid the world of bad trumpet playing.”    Check out what Joey has to say about staying busy, continual growth, focus, the difference between musicians and athletes, competition, Tromba Mundi, The Open Bell podcast, the hardest job in the music industry, the worst advice ever, musical loves, how to be a great lead trumpet player, his approach to practice, the importance of musical versatility, the Matrix problem, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Read Joey’s blog: https://joeytartell.com/bio/  Find out more about Tromba Mundi: https://trombamundi.org/  Listen to The Open Bell podcast: https://worldtrumpetfederation.com/the-open-bell-podcast/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ----------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00:00 Intro  00:02:23:24 Staying busy  00:08:39:05 Continual growth  00:14:18:21 Focus  00:18:48:24 The difference between musicians and athletes  00:22:55:10 Competition  00:26:25:02 Tromba Mundi  00:30:46:14 The Open Bell Podcast  00:36:50:22 The hardest job in the music industry  00:42:08:05 The worst advice ever  00:45:56:23 Musical loves  00:48:08:17 How to be a great lead trumpet player  00:50:14:14 His approach to practice  00:55:53:01 The importance of musical versatility  01:00:04:05 The Matrix problem  01:01:28:19 Sound Off  01:03:42:11 Geared Up  01:11:08:09 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Rich Willey.   Rich speaks from experience. A veteran sideman and prolific composer, Rich has played with the likes of Maynard Ferguson, Mel Torme, and Tommy Dorsey, and has published a massive collection of arrangements, compositions, and method books. But success on the bandstand came at a price. Rich has had to endure a number of setbacks that nearly ended his career, eventually leading Rich to become a student of Donald Reinhardt’s Pivot System and to his commitment to provide help and hope to others.   Check out what Rich has to say about learning from adversity, the power of self-talk, his advice on recovering from Bell's Palsy, why you can't cram for trumpet playing, being committed, why you have to be willing to suck, an introduction to the teachings of Donald Reinhardt, the musical side of Doc Reinhardt, diagnostic tools, diagnosing problems, self-diagnosis, moving to Philadelphia to study with Doc Reinhardt, Reinhardt resources, inspirations for his method books, how talent can be your biggest enemy, the sound characteristics of Reinhardt types, lip buzzing, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Find Rich's music and publications at: https://www.boptism.com/  Listen to Dr. Donald Reinhardt explain his concepts: https://www.boptism.com/product-category/doc-reinhardt-listening-zone/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -----------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00:00 Intro  00:03:37:12 Learning from adversity  00:07:05:02 The power of self-talk  00:08:31:14 His advice on recovering from Bell's Palsy  00:11:21:12 Why you can't cram for trumpet  00:13:45:14 Being committed  00:15:31:12 Why you have to be willing to suck  00:18:54:03 An introduction to the teachings of Donald Reinhardt  00:23:24:14 The musical side of Doc Reinhardt  00:29:34:24 Diagnostic tools  00:32:54:07 Diagnosing problems  00:40:05:17 Self diagnosis  00:46:17:07 Moving to Philadelphia to study with Doc Reinhardt  00:52:44:20 Reinhardt resources  00:56:19:20 Inspirations for his method books  01:05:36:20 How talent can be your biggest enemy  01:07:26:02 Sound off  01:12:04:22 Sound characteristics by type  01:14:34:20 Lip Buzzing  01:16:19:19 Geared Up  01:24:41:11 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Bijon Watson.   Bijon is a straight-up beast. Originally from Boston, Bijon began his studies of classical trumpet at the prestigious New England Conservatory Of Music Preparatory School. While doing his undergrad work at The Unversity of Southern California, Bijon began his journey into the world of commercial music. Equally at home in the concert hall, studio, or arena, Bijon has made a name for himself as a versatile and dependable player who always tries to look as good on stage as he sounds.    Check out what Bijon has to say about East Coast vs West Coast styles, playing lead trumpet, Snooky Young, a balanced approach to sound, mouthpiece buzzing, learning to adjust, lip size and pliability, trumpet mouthpieces, switching musical genres, his favorite types of gigs, the differences between playing live, in the studio, and on television, how to develop consistency, the need for constant improvement, the importance of a consistent warm-up routine, shirts and shoes, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Find out more about Bijon and all of his projects at: https://www.bijonwatson.com/ Gigs making your back and feet as tired as your chops? Try this: https://amzn.to/3n5C2oa Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecret  -----------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00:00 Intro  00:02:38:00 East Coast vs West Coast  00:06:18:11 Playing lead trumpet  00:10:51:21 Snooky Young  00:16:30:17 A balanced approach to sound  00:20:57:06 Mouthpiece Buzzing  00:30:09:10 Learning to adjust  00:35:50:17 Lip size and pliability  00:42:54:01 Trumpet mouthpieces  00:46:33:23 Switching genres  00:51:46:22 His favorite types of gigs  00:54:27:18 The differences between playing live, in the studio, and on television  00:58:48:10 How to develop consistency  01:04:00:03 The need for constant improvement  01:07:30:14 The importance of a consistent warm-up routine  01:14:03:05 Sound Off  01:16:48:04 Geared Up  01:19:47:10 Shirts and shoes  01:23:17:20 Be aware of your brand  01:24:53:02 Jose's tip for avoiding sore feet and backs on long gigs  01:26:42:13 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is K.O. Skinsnes.   K.O. is a wealth of knowledge. Over his career, K.O. has been fortunate to be mentored by some of the top names in mouthpiece manufacturing, trumpet design, acoustics, and sound reinforcement. His depth and breadth of knowledge make K.O. a skilled technician and an insightful problem-solver. And all of his years in the business have also provided K.O. with a near-endless supply of entertaining stories.   Check out what K.O. has to say about his late early beginnings, making gear transparent, why there will never be an in-tune Martin Committee, playing your part, why you need to learn to figure things out, learning and growing, music in Hawaii, the revival of live music, Bob Reeves, the genius of Bill Cardwell, connecting the dots, breaking his own rule, the vision behind Stomvi's 4-valve instruments, the role of damping, his Double C  mouthpiece, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Check out K.O.’s latest products at: https://stomvi-usa.com/ The Stomvi YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwdu_O_JWg5ZEjCL7kWW9eQ “Jump On Board” - video tribute to John Madrid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbPi8y3wPDg Learn how to be a great 4th trumpet player: https://youtu.be/FnsEZ9q2hOc Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets -------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro   00:02:37 Late early beginnings   00:06:48 Making gear transparent   00:10:39 Why there will never be an in-tune Martin Committee   00:14:17 Playing your part   00:19:24 Why you need to learn to figure things out   00:26:47 Learning and growing   00:32:06 Music in Hawaii   00:38:01 The revival of live music   00:44:11 Bob Reeves   00:46:14 The genius of Bill Cardwell   00:49:33 Connecting the dots   00:54:03 Breaking his own rule   00:57:15 The vision behind Stomvi's 4-valve instruments   01:02:54 The role of damping   01:18:12 His Double C  mouthpiece   01:21:23 Sound Off   01:28:39 Geared Up   01:43:03 Rapid Fire Round

On April 17, 2022, the trumpet world said goodbye to a pioneer and industry trendsetter - Bob Reeves. Bob was much more than a mouthpiece manufacturer, and his impact on the trumpet world has benefited nearly every player in the last 50 years. As a tribute to the memory of Bob, I've invited three Trumpet Gurus - Chris Cromer, Terry Warburton, and K.O. Skinsnes - to share their stories of how Bob's work helped shape their work and the direction of modern trumpet equipment.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:01:35 Bob setting a new standard for manufacturers  00:03:10 Always being willing to share information  00:05:38 The Gap  00:08:10 How Bob impacted his approach to repair  00:10:50 The importance of valve alignments  00:14:10 Bob's lasting legacy  00:15:40 Terry Warburton  00:16:31 First meeting Bob  01:20:51 Bob's technical contributions  00:23:19 Raising the bar  00:26:34 Consistency  00:30:19 Bob's greatest gift  00:32:23 The importance of tight tolerances  00:33:53 Leaving a legacy  00:38:16 KO Siknsnes  00:38:56 His introduction to Bob Reeves  00:46:20 Bob Reeves the problem solver  00:49:40 Bob Reeves the technician  00:50:29 An unreleased video of Bob  00:53:25 Bob's inspiration for valve alignments  00:56:30 Setting a higher standard  00:59:30 Two Canadian Brass stories  01:05:17 Whatever happened to Bob Reeves?  01:06:58 Bob was the greatest mouthpiece maker that's ever lived  01:10:40 How Bob got started  01:13:32 Building on past successes  01:18:48 Advice to mouthpiece manufacturers  01:23:46 Wrap Up

My guest for this episode is Craig Kenney.   Craig is a hidden gem. A world-class lead player, Craig’s career did not take the conventional route. Instead of forging a name on the road or in the studios, Craig chose to stay close to home in South Central Pennsylvania. A decision that placed him in the perfect spot to spend two decades as the lead player for the legendary Dave Stahl. But his recent experience rebuilding his chops after a bout with Bell’s Palsy is a masterclass in determination and resiliency that every player can benefit from.    Check out what Craig has to say about choosing to stay close to home, playing lead with Dave Stahl, important lessons for lead trumpet players, his inspirations, learning to play in the upper register, students and mouthpieces, being a teacher, Clarke Studies for upper register development, having a musical family, the importance of community bands, helping players feel comfortable, recovering from Bells Palsy, finding the silver lining, changes in attitude, dealing with uncertainty, his advice for recovering from a physical setback, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ---------------------------------------------------------------  Find Craig on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/craig.kenney.5 Stay up to date with the Leabman Kenny Jazz Orchestra at: https://lewleabman.com/leabmankenney.html Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -----------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:03:48 Choosing to stay close to home  00:06:40 Playing lead with Dave Stahl  00:13:30 Important lessons for lead trumpet players  00:18:46 His inspirations  00:21:39 Learning to play in the upper register  00:31:19 Students and mouthpieces  00:33:33 Being a teacher  00:34:36 Clarke Studies for upper register development  00:36:46 Having a musical family  00:40:39 The importance of community bands  00:44:20 Helping players feel comfortable  00:48:15 Recovering from Bells Palsy  00:54:04 Finding the silver lining  00:59:55 Changes in attitude  01:04:24 Dealing with uncertainty  01:07:09 His advice for recovering from a physical setback  01:09:40 Sound Off  01:11:58 Geared Up  01:18:04 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Louis Dowdeswell.    Louis is incredible. Louis’ seemingly effortless command of the trumpet’s upper register puts him in rare air indeed.  As one of the Young Lions of the bustling London music scene, you can hear Louis light it up in studios, soundstages, and pits as well as with his own big band. And Louis’ video covers of soundtrack tunes have had millions of views worldwide. But the best part is that Louis’ laugh comes just as easy as his double C.   Check out what Louis has to say about connecting with Wayne Bergeron, being a mentor. learning how to be a successful musician, the Tom Walsh Effect, the London musical path, finding your unique selling proposition, defining moments, change and growth, the necessity of trade-offs, Maynard Ferguson, anatomy and efficiency, the importance of soft playing to develop the upper register, Reinhardt Types, his theory on aperture size and compression, how to practice to develop the upper register, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Find all things Louis at: https://www.louisdowdeswell.com/home  Louis on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChickenTiko  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ------------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:02:53 Connecting with Wayne Bergeron  00:08:21 Being a mentor  00:15:20 Learning how to be a successful musician  00:23:00 The Tom Walsh Effect  00:29:05 The London musical path  00:32:59 Finding your unique selling proposition  00:40:46 Defining moments  00:51:42 Change and growth  01:01:08 The necessity of  trade-offs  01:06:30 Maynard Ferguson  01:10:14 Anatomy and efficiency  01:13:29 The importance of soft playing to develop the upper register  01:19:00 Reinhardt Types  01:21:02 His theory on aperture size and compression  01:29:25 How to practice to develop the upper register  01:32:33 Sound Off  01:37:57 Geared Up  01:42:34 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Cameron Milligan. Cameron is a rising star. Cameron is a Montréal based freelance trumpet player and the winner of the 2022 Trumpeter’s Multi-Track Competition. His winning entry, a unique take on the jazz standard “All The Things You Are,” spotlights Cameron’s skills as a talented arranger, a skilled trumpet player, and a creative multi-media editor. Keep an eye on this guy, he’s definitely going places. Check out what Cameron has to say about his background, his early inspirations, the Montreal music scene, his musical passions, his arranging inspirations for his winning entry, his video production concepts, improvisation and the art of video creation, his multi-media tech specs, time commitment, why he entered the Trumpeter's Multi-Track Competition, the importance of multi-track videos for performers and arrangers, his biggest takeaway from winning the Trumpeter's Multi-Track Competition, turning his video into a live production, lessons you can learn about your playing through the recording process, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Learn more about The Trumpeter’s Multi-Track Competition here: https://www.trumpetmtc.org/ Subscribe to Cameron’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu3cztlB3tPfqGPzSHCaQzA Watch Cameron’s award-winning “All The Things You Are” video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yd1l5p65Kx8 Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:37 His background 00:06:02 His early inspiration 00:09:43 The Montreal music scene 00:13:55 His musical passions 00:15:46 His arranging inspirations for his winning entry 00:22:41 His video production concepts 00:29:50 Improvisation and the art of video creation 00:33:22 His multi-media tech specs 00:39:52 Time commitment 00:41:39 Why he entered the multi-track competition 00:43:08 The importance of multi-track videos for performers and arrangers 00:50:58 His biggest takeaway from winning the Trumpeter's Multi-Track Competition 00:52:49 Turning his video into a live production 00:57:23 Lessons you can learn about your playing  through the recording process 01:00:32 Sound Off 01:03:48 Geared Up 01:07:22 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Lynn Nicholson.   Lynn is a seeker. As a young trumpet player, his search for a better solution to playing outdoors led to him discovering The MF Protocol. His superhuman upper register landed Lynn’s first professional gig with Bill Chase and then as a featured member of the Maynard Ferguson band. While Lynn’s life has taken some unpredictable twists and turns he has always followed his heart and remained true to his inquisitive nature.   Check out what Lynn has to say about stumbling onto the MF Protocol, the need for a methodical approach, having an enquiring mind, being surrounded by greatness, transitioning to life in LA and Vegas, learning to be comfortable in the uncertainty,  motivations, making mouthpiece magic, myth-busting, what he learned from Maynard, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Find out more about The MF Protocol and Lynn’s other products at: http://james-r-new.com/affiliates/lynn-nicholson.html  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -----------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:04:13 Stumbling onto the MF Protocol  00:05:41 The need for a methodical approach  00:08:37 Having an inquiring mind  00:12:39 Being surrounded by greatness  00:15:39 Transitioning to life in LA and Vegas  00:23:40 Learning to be comfortable in the uncertainty  00:27:00 Motivations  00:40:07 Making mouthpiece magic  00:50:51 Myth-busting  01:01:36 What he learned from Maynard  01:12:42 Sound Off  01:14:07 Geared Up  01:17:01 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Mark Zauss.   Mark is back by popular demand for another hang. There are few people who can talk about the physical and mental demands of the modern trumpet player as authoritatively as Mark. His seemingly magical range and power made him a mainstay at Disney's Magic Kingdom with both Future Corp and The Main Street Philharmonic. But when you combine his battle-tested chops with his skills as a licensed clinical psychotherapist, you get the ultimate resource for your trumpet playing woes.   Check out what Mark has to say about how the pandemic has affected our mental health, the increase of anxiety in musicians, practical ways to deal with anxiety, focusing on the breath, why things tend to go wrong, how he resets after a tough set, tips to coordinate the mind and body, the breathing process, understanding triggers, reframing, the importance of routine, his approach to warming up, learning to put it all together, learning from your students, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  —--------------------------------------------------------------  Want to schedule a lesson with Mark? Check him out at https://www.markzauss.net/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ---------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:03:12 How the pandemic has affected our mental health  00:06:35 The increase of anxiety in musicians  00:08:02 Practical ways to deal with anxiety  00:14:02 Focusing on the breath  00:16:50 Why things tend to go wrong  00:21:31 How he resets after a tough set  00:25:21 Tips to coordinate the mind and body  00:29:47 The breathing process  00:35:26 Understanding triggers  00:40:22 Reframing  00:44:38 The importance of routine  00:47:59 His approach to warming up  00:51:43 Learning to put it all together  00:57:17 Learning from your students  00:59:22 Sound Off  01:00:32 Geared Up  01:05:34 Rapid Fire Round

Welcome to the Trumpet Gurus’ Hang podcast. I’m your host, Jose Johnson. My guest for this episode is Rex Richardson. Rex is all about the big picture. Rex uses his virtuoso-level classical technique to take his jazz playing to heights few can reach. And he brings the freedom of his spontaneous and expressive improvisational skills to the sometimes predictable world of classical trumpet playing. Plus Rex is a committed educator and has never lost sight of the impact that music can make on the lives of others. Check out what Rex has to say about finding his niche, helping his students find balance, finding your groove, jazz as a life skill, why mistakes aren't always a bad thing, his theory on the "perfection movement" in orchestral music, finding the balance between technique and expression, rebounding from mistakes, getting lost in the music, 100 days of practice, and so much more. So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Find out more about Rex Richardson at https://www.rexrichardson.net/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:04:06 Finding his niche 00:10:24 Helping his students find balance 00:13:29 Finding your groove 00:18:15 Jazz as a life skill 00:31:39 Why mistakes aren't always a bad thing 00:36:03 His theory on the "perfection movement" in orchestral music 00:39:14 Finding the balance between technique and expression 00:46:18 Rebounding from mistakes 00:51:02 Getting lost in the music 00:55:10 100 days of practice 00:59:46 Sound Off 01:06:10 Geared Up 01:10:47 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Brian Shaw. Brian is not afraid to try something new. While his original passion for playing the trumpet came from Maynard Ferguson, Bryan found his education leading him down the classical path. Bryan is highly regarded for his skills on the Baroque trumpet and is Co-Principal Trumpet of the Dallas Winds, Principal of the Baton Rouge Symphony, Santa Fe Pro Musica, and Spire Baroque Orchestra But he still loves to play jazz and crank out the high notes. Check out what Brian has to say about life changes, the mouthpiece buzzing controversy, different learning styles, baroque trumpet, lessons from playing period instruments, managing different playing situations, the benefit of musical variety, teaching vs learning, why he's happy he learned to play high notes, Louis Dowdeswell and Jacob Collier, writing about the life of Kenny Wheeler, creating your own voice, and so much more. So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! ------------------------------------------------------------- Check out Brian's music and No BS with BS blog at: https://brianshawmusic.com/home Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets

My guest for this episode is Bryan Davis.   Bryan is paying it forward. Originally from the UK, Bryan relocated to The US and quickly established himself as a fixture in the New York City music scene. But things haven’t always come easy for Bryan, and chop problems forced him to seek out the help he needed to become a more efficient player. He’s now committed to providing practical advice to trumpet players around the globe through his Airflow Music books and videos.   Check out what Bryan has to say about making the move to New York, learning on the job, the business of music education, blowing out his chops, chop help from Roger Ingram, looking for a better way to play, context, being willing to look for the lesson in the moment, starting Airflow Music, twisted studies, the genius of Herbert L. Clarke, the importance of smoothness, teaching smoothness, efficiency, technology, practical skills for the touring musician, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Find out more about Bryan at https://bryandav.is/  Check out Bryan’s books and learning resources at https://airflowmusic.com/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro 00:02:30 Making the move to New York 00:04:46 Learning on the job  00:08:54 The business of music education  00:13:06 Blowing out his chops  00:18:24 Chop help from Roger Ingram  00:24:38 Looking for a better way to play  00:26:56 Context  00:31:44 Being willing to look for the lesson in the moment  00:33:58 Starting Airflow Music  00:41:28 Twisted studies  00:46:01 The genius of Herbert L. Clarke  00:50:13 The importance of smoothness  00:53:57 Teaching smoothness  00:59:48 Efficiency  01:05:25 Technology  01:09:53 Practical skills for the touring musician  01:13:22 Sound Off  01:17:14 Shameless plug for Barkley Microphones  01:19:04 Geared Up  01:24:57 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Brad Goode.   Brad is old-school. While many of his contemporaries were learning about jazz in the halls of academia, Brad was getting his education the traditional way, jamming and hanging with masters of their craft. But Brad’s unique sound was almost silenced by severe chop problems leading him to develop a deeper understanding of the mechanical workings of the embouchure. And that knowledge has not only given him back his voice but has taken his playing to new heights.   Check out what Brad has to say about being a multi-instrumentalist, the role of rhythm, getting bitten by the jazz bug, preparing students for success, learning jazz the old way, what's wrong with modern jazz pedagogy, the power of the jam session, relearning how to play the trumpet, why you should never ice your lips, how the Reinhardt Pivot System saved his career, his passion for helping people understand embouchure, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Learn more about Brad at: https://www.bradgoode.com Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -----------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro   00:02:56 Being a multi-instrumentalist   00:06:26 The role of rhythm   00:13:04 Getting bitten by the jazz bug   00:18:51 Preparing students for success   00:23:24 Learning jazz the old way   00:33:52 What's wrong with modern jazz pedagogy   00:41:32 The power of the jam session   00:46:22 Relearning how to play the trumpet   00:54:49 Why you should never ice your lips   01:02:21 How the Reinhardt Pivot System saved his career   01:05:28 His passion for helping people understand embouchure   01:17:40 Sound Off   01:21:50 Geared Up   01:28:33 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Peter Bond.   Peter is a late bloomer. Starting out as a self-described trumpet meathead with poor playing habits, no one would have predicted his career as a renowned classical musician. His 28 year run with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra gave him the opportunity to play alongside some of the trumpet world's greatest talents and support opera's legendary performers. And with his book "The Singing Trumpet" Peter hopes to ease the way for trumpeters of every style to find their unique voice.   Check out what Peter has to say about humor as a survival mechanism, making changes, things he will miss about The Met, his unorthodox approach, the difference between singing and blowing, how traditional pedagogy limits expressive potential, how the vocal model helps you play in the upper register, a book of ideas, the limitations of received wisdom, the difference between comfort and correctness, playing catch up, being surrounded by greatness, what makes the Met Orchestra so unique, the influence of vocalist, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  —--------------------------------------------------------------  Peter Bond's book "The Singing Trumpet": https://www.carlfischer.com/txt14-the-singing-trumpet.html Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  --------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:02:39 Humor as a survival mechanism  00:04:10 Making changes  00:06:15 Things he will miss about The Met  00:11:28 His unorthodox approach  00:15:49 The difference between singing and blowing  00:20:53 How traditional pedagogy limits expressive potential  00:24:50 How the vocal model helps you play in the upper register  00:30:21 A book of ideas  00:35:26 The limitations of received wisdom  00:40:14 The difference between comfort and correctness  00:41:38 Playing catch up  00:45:55 Being surrounded by greatness  00:47:29 What makes the Met Orchestra so unique  00:52:09 The influence of vocalist  01:00:04 Dream gig  01:01:48 Sound Off  01:03:40 Geared Up  01:11:19 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Graham Breedlove.   Graham is a musical chef. Raised in the rich cultural gumbo that is Louisiana, Graham has stayed true to his roots by creating a tasty mix of musical influences. Whether it’s cooking on stage with the Army Blues Big Band, blazing with a combo, or spreading the gospel of jazz in the classroom, Graham is certain to get your head bobbin’ and your feet tappin’.   Check out what Graham has to say about Louisiana music, combining musical influences, modern influences, personal responsibility and musical amoebas, programming to balance innovation with connection, approaching solos like a conversation, entering the world of DC military bands, the educational impact of The Army Blues, teamwork in The Army Blues Trumpet section, comparing big band to small band playing, the lost art of section playing, what the future holds, filling the holes in the world of jazz education, being a mature musician, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and laissez les bon temps rouler!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Follow the U.S. Army Blues at https://www.usarmyband.com/ensembles/the-u-s-army-blues  Get to know Graham at https://www.grahambreedlove.com/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ---------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:02:58 Louisiana music  00:08:21 Combining musical influences  00:12:59 Modern influences  00:17:20 Personal responsibility and musical amoebas  00:24:07 Programming to balance innovation with connection  00:28:19 Approaching solos like a conversation  00:31:38 Entering the world of DC military bands  00:37:50 The educational impact of The Army Blues  00:39:50 Teamwork in The Army Blues Trumpet section  00:47:09 Comparing big band to small band playing  00:50:10 The lost art of section playing  00:54:07 What the future holds  00:56:22 Filling the holes in the world of jazz education  01:05:53 Being a mature musician  01:07:38 Sound Off  01:10:14 Geared Up  01:16:50 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Rashawn Ross.   Rashawn is an interesting dichotomy. As a member of the Dave Matthews Band, Rashawn regularly plays in front of thousands of fans, but at heart, he is a quiet soul. Rashawn is noted for his amazing high chops, effortlessly soaring well above double-high C, yet he doesn’t consider himself a lead player. And while his talents make him legendary, his island roots keep him humble.    Check out what Rashawn has to say about staying grounded, introvert coins, misconceptions, large venues vs small venues, the stage vs the studio, gratitude, his role with The Dave Matthews Band, the necessity of two sets of gear, working on the new Bach trumpet, the Stevens Costello Method, in-ear monitors, figuring out how to play in the extreme upper register, multiple approaches to playing the trumpet, trial and error, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  —--------------------------------------------------------------  Find out more about Rashawn and the new Bach trumpets: https://bit.ly/RashawnRoss  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets -----------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:03:20 Staying grounded  00:07:26 Introvert coins  00:13:53 Misconceptions  00:16:14 Large venues vs small venues  00:19:22 The stage vs the studio  00:26:11 Gratitude  00:32:48 His role with The Dave Matthews Band  00:39:59 The necessity of two sets of gear  00:42:04 Working on the new Bach trumpet  00:50:24 The Stevens Costello Method  00:57:05 In-ear monitors  00:58:21 Figuring out how to play in the extreme upper register  01:01:23 Multiple approaches to playing the trumpet  01:06:21 Trial and error  01:12:29 Sound Off  01:16:35 Geared Up  01:22:21 Rapid Fire Round

Welcome to this "best-of" episode of the Trumpet Gurus’ Hang podcast.    Do you love gear? Of course you do!    And because you love to talk about gear, I decided to make that discussion a regular part of The Trumpet Gurus Hang by adding the Geared Up segment to every episode.   Geared Up is a chance for my guests to discuss their take on trumpet gear, specifically the concepts that they feel are the most important to them and their expert advice on how to find the best gear for your personal needs.  T his compilation features highlights from my hangs with Eric Miyashiro, Paul Baron, Michael Bogart, Kiku Collins, Kevin Burns, James Morrison, Jim Manley, Mary Elizabeth Bowden, Chris Jaudes, Matt White, and Allen Vizzutti.   Check out what my guests had to say about their concepts and approaches to trumpets, mouthpieces, and more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ------------------------------------------------  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:03:02 Eric Miyashiro  00:07:09 Paul Baron  00:11:30 Michael Bogart  00:14:38 Kiku Collins  00:17:37 Kevin Burns  00:21:52 James Morrison  00:29:33 Jim Manley  00:32:59 Mary Elizabeth Bowden  00:39:20 Chris Jaudes  00:48:45 Matt White  00:56:02 Allen Vizzutti  01:05:41 Wrap Up

Welcome to this "best-of" episode of the Trumpet Gurus’ Hang podcast.    The topic of this special episode is how to improve your trumpet sound. This features highlights from my hangs with Joshua Kaufmann, Ryan Quigley, Raul Agraz, David Dash, Melvin Jones, Tyler Jaeger, Ashley Killam, Carrie Blosser, Walt Johnson, Brad Mason, Jon Kaplan, Phil O'Neill, Rich Colquhoun, Larry Meregillano, Steven Cunningham, Vaughn Nark, and Estela Aragon.   Check out what my guests had to say about their concepts and approaches to creating an amazing trumpet sound.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ------------------------------------------------  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  -----------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:01:18 Joshua Kaufmann  00:09:14 Ryan Quigley  00:10:59 Raul Agraz  00:13:28 David Dash  00:18:29 Melvin Jones  00:21:11 Tyler Jaeger  00:23:16 Ashley Killam and Carrie Blosser  00:27:35 Walt Johnson  00:29:56 Brad Mason  00:33:43 Jon Kaplan  00:36:47 Phil O'Neill  00:42:33 Rich Colquhoun  00:44:55 Larry Meregillano  00:46:53 Steven Cunningham  00:50:15 Vaughn Nark  00:53:05 Estela Aragon  00:55:20 Wrap Up

My guest for this episode is Estela Aragon.   Estela is an innovator. While obtaining her Master’s Degree in Performance, Estela became obsessed with devising new techniques to teach music. As a result, her unique teaching methods earned her first prize at the 2014 Savvy Arts Venture Competition. Estela is the founder of the Trumpet Headquarters and The Music Fit Academy. She’s a performer, educator, and successful entrepreneur. And she’s just getting warmed up.   Check out what Estela has to say about finding a new path, the fear of failure, structuring a progressive curriculum, expanding the course, dealing with gender bias, overcoming obstacles, filling the pedagogical void, a sneak peek at what's next, her ideal student, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------  Be inspired and get pumped at The MusicFit Academy: https://www.musicfitacademy.com/ Get free tips and resources from Estela: https://www.youtube.com/c/TrumpetHeadquarters  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  --------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:03:07 Finding a new path  00:11:52 The fear of failure  00:23:22 Structuring a progressive curriculum  00:33:40 Expanding the course  00:43:09 Dealing with gender bias  00:50:54 Overcoming obstacles  00:56:20 Filling the pedagogical void  00:59:34 A sneak peek at what's next  01:02:44 Her ideal student  01:04:39 Sound Off  01:07:24 Geared Up  01:09:47 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Vaughn Nark.   To quote Dizzy Gillespie, Vaughn Nark is something special. Vaughn followed in his father’s footsteps and began playing trumpet at the age of 6. But when he first heard Dizzy, his world changed forever. Having spent nearly 20 years in The Airmen of Note, Vaughn created a name for himself with his pyrotechnic approach to improvisation. Vaughn is also a passionate educator and a bit of a jazz historian meaning he is always ready with a great story.   Check out what Vaughn has to say about why the trumpet is so special, his early influences, his first exposure to Dizzy Gillespie, his first meeting with Diz, why trumpet players need to stick together, honoring what's in your soul, studying the embouchures of the all-time greats, playing advice from Donald Reinhardt, why every embouchure is unique, how to increase your speed and accuracy, the importance of the teeth in playing, the history of jazz trumpet, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  —--------------------------------------------------------------  Learn more about Vaughn and check out his awesome resources at: http://www.vaughnnark.com/  Check out Vaughn with Dizzy, Faddis, Freddie, Wynton, and Jimmy! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLfl7EGrcKw  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ----------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:02:54 Why the trumpet is so special  00:06:48 His early influences  00:11:12 His first exposure to Dizzy Gillespie  00:17:58 His first meeting with Diz  00:30:25 Why trumpet players need to stick together  00:32:29 Honoring what's in your soul  00:38:16 Studying the embouchures of the all-time greats  00:42:37 Playing advice from Donald Reinhardt  00:52:39 Why every embouchure is unique  00:57:41 How to increase your speed and accuracy  01:04:14 The importance of the teeth in playing  01:08:56 The history of jazz trumpet  01:18:46 Sound Off  01:22:03 Geared Up  01:28:31 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Steven Cunningham.   On the road to attaining his doctorate, Steven had no desire to be an educator, but life has a funny way of bringing your real purpose to light. His path has gone from being a full-time working pro, to a university teaching position, to finally returning to his roots as the high school music teacher at his alma mater in Virginia. Steven is caring, passionate, and is committed to paying it forward, in other words, a great teacher.   Check out what Steven has to say about living up to the Grambling tradition, the hidden benefits of marching bands, the importance of tradition in jazz, the importance of mixing things up, learning to work with what you have, the art of motivation, the many hats of an educator, finding his calling, the need for people skills, the importance of fundamentals, his approach to practice, the benefit of learning other instruments, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ---------------------------------------------------------------------  Get to know more about Steven and check out some of his trumpet practice resources at: https://sctrumpet.com/home  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ----------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:02:01 Living up to the Grambling tradition  00:10:56 The hidden benefits of marching bands  00:14:03 The importance of tradition in jazz  00:18:09 The importance of mixing things up  00:20:28 Learning to work with what you have  00:26:41 The art of motivation  00:34:24 The many hats of an educator  00:38:14 Finding his calling  00:47:10 The need for people skills  00:50:49 The importance of fundamentals  00:52:30 His approach to practice  01:00:40 The benefit of learning other instruments  01:06:34 Sound Off  01:11:43 Geared Up  01:19:51 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Larry Meregillano.   Larry understands the struggle. At the start of his career, Larry made a name for himself with his powerful chops. Larry has toured and recorded with some of the biggest names in gospel music and sailed the high seas on cruise ships as a player and as a musical director. But Larry has had his share of chop problems as well, and his research led to the creation of The Compression Training System and a way to help other players find a better way to regain or maintain their chops.   Check out what Larry has to say about getting started, quitting and restarting, getting back to his roots, the impact of his various teachers, the two things that will hurt a brass player, muscle memory, the role of compression, the Cat Anderson Method, finding the right coordination, the benefit of the Compression Training System, the correct way to use the CTS, what's next on the agenda, and so much more.    So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ----------------------------------------------------------------  Find out more about Larry and The Compression Training System here: https://www.trumpetlegacy.com/  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/  If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets  ------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:02:45 Getting started   00:09:34 Quitting and restarting   00:15:33 Getting back to his roots   00:19:28 The impact of his various teachers   00:22:17 The two things that will hurt a brass player   00:26:31 Muscle memory   00:29:17 The role of compression   00:33:25 The Cat Anderson Method   00:36:53 Finding the right coordination   00:39:43 The benefit of the Compression Training System   00:49:24 The correct way to use the CTS   00:59:08 What's next on the agenda   01:04:52 Sound Off   01:07:32 Geared Up   01:11:25 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Rich Colquhoun.   Rich is a man on a mission. A classically trained graduate of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, Rich found that he was not completely prepared for the demands of the modern freelance trumpet player. His search for the solution to his playing problems led him to Jerry Callet and the Tounge Controlled Embouchure method. Since then, Rich has authored several books and developed a number of online resources to help trumpet players around the globe take their playing to new heights.   Check out what Rich has to say about his introduction to the teachings of Jerry Callet, the evolution of Jerry Callet's methods, the role of the tongue and compression, dealing with naysayers, revamping methodology, TCE and articulation, consistency,  the separation of technique and music, his current playing demands, advice on getting started with TCE, universal principles, and so much more.   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ---------------------------------------  Want to learn more about the Tounge Controled Embouchure? https://tonguecontrolled.info/ Rich's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/trumpetplanet Rich's Brass Practice channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrassPractice Rich's books and mouthpieces: https://neotericbrass.com/ The Open Arban Project: https://openarban.wordpress.com/ Rich's blog: https://trumpetpla.net/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets    ------------------------------------------------------    01:00:00:00 Intro  01:03:10:11 His introduction to the teachings of Jerry Callet  01:09:35:02 The evolution of Jerry Callet's methods  01:13:08:07 The role of the tongue and compression  01:20:36:20 Dealing with naysayers  01:25:46:06 Revamping methodology  01:27:59:16 TCE and articulation  01:32:58:22 Consistency  01:37:57:06 The separation of technique and music  01:42:55:07 His current playing demands  01:47:07:15 Advice on getting started with TCE  02:00:24:10 Universal principles  02:09:33:10 Sound Off  02:12:21:14 Geared Up  02:19:57:15 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Phill O’Neill. Sydney Australia-based trumpet player Phill O’Neill is a busy guy. His resume contains numerous awards for his solo trumpet playing, a long career with various Australian Military groups, and a successful freelance career. But Phill is also known for his innovative approach to teaching trumpet through his YouTube channel and his Learn Trumpet Now membership site. And he still has more in store. Check out what Phill has to say about getting started, solo competitions, our responsibility to the next generation, technology and teaching, the Dark Side of learning online, tools for your toolbox, the importance of structured practice, building relationships, recording progress, communication, fundamentals, and so much more. So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! ------------------------------------------------------ The official homepage of Phill O'Neill: https://philloneill.com/ Subscribe to Phill's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/PhillONeillTrumpet/featured Check out Phill's online learning community: https://www.learntrumpetnow.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets ------------------------------------------------------ 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:20 Getting started 00:11:35 Solo Competitions 00:18:49 Our responsibility to the next generation 00:23:33 Technology and teaching 00:31:37 The Dark Side of learning online 00:37:06 Tools for your toolbox 00:42:05 The importance of structured practice 00:52:59 Building relationships 01:00:27 Recording progress 01:10:02 Communication 01:15:45 Fundamentals 01:18:53 Sound Off! 01:25:24 Geared Up 01:31:09 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Jon Kaplan.    Jon is a self-professed trumpet nerd. Besides being a gifted orchestral player who has studied with many of the great pedagogues of our time, Jon has an insatiable hunger for gaining and sharing knowledge about all things trumpet. As the host of the wildly popular Jon Talks Trumpet YouTube channel, Jon delivers regular doses of insightful information in a quirky and entertaining fashion.    Check out what Jon has to say about getting bit by the equipment bug, learning about YouTube, passion and personality, the role of equipment, science and silliness, Vennture Mouthpieces, the right way to approach change, the return of live music, giving props to all of your teachers, low self-esteem and performance anxiety, finding the perfect partner, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------------  Get your regular dose of trumpet nerdiness by subscribing to Jon Talks Trumpet: https://www.youtube.com/c/JonTalksTrumpet Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets   --------------------------------------------------------------------  00:00:00 Intro  00:03:06 Getting bit by the equipment bug  00:08:53 Learning about YouTube  00:14:36 Passion and personality  00:18:41 The role of equipment  00:26:24 Science and silliness  00:33:56 Vennture Mouthpieces  00:39:55 The right way to approach change  00:43:21 The return of live music  00:46:28 Giving props to all of your teachers  00:54:28 Low self-esteem and performance anxiety  01:05:37 Finding the perfect partner  01:10:20 Sound Off!  01:14:06 Geared Up  01:33:35 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Brad Mason.   Brad is all about balance. Whether it’s in his role as the lead trumpet and Musical Director for the legendary Blood Sweat & Tears, co-leading the Mason Brothers Quintet with his brother Elliot, or teaching trumpet at Northwestern University, Brad strives to find the balance of honoring the history and tradition of our trumpet lineage with the need to develop an updated approach to the technique and creativity needed in the world of modern music. Plus, he knows how to rock the facial hair.   Check out what Brad has to say about developing his work ethic, life at Berkley,  finding inspiration from others, inspiring your bandmates, honoring the legacy of Blood Sweat & Tears, personal influences and inspirations, learning the language of the trumpet, thinking outside the box, getting and keeping a gig, the importance of a mental warm-up, listening for stylistic differences, creating the BS&T sound, the joys of working with his brother, being a team player, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  All things Brad: https://www.bradmasonmusic.com/ The official Blood Sweat & Tears homepage: https://bloodsweatandtears.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  Chapters  00:02:44 Developing his work ethic  00:06:30 Life at Berkley  00:10:03 Finding inspiration from others  00:11:57 Inspiring your bandmates  00:18:11 Honoring the legacy of Blood Sweat & Tears  00:21:04 Personal influences and inspirations  00:29:26 Learning the language of the trumpet  00:36:48 Thinking outside the box  00:41:00 Getting and keeping a gig  00:47:51 The importance of a mental warm-up  00:54:12 Listening for stylistic differences  00:57:32 Creating the BS&T sound  01:02:32 The joys of working with his brother  01:06:31 Being a team player  01:08:05 Sound Off!  01:12:45 Geared Up  01:21:48 Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Walt Johnson.   In the world of lead trumpet players, Walt is a true Superman. His stellar career has spanned six decades and has given him the opportunity to lend his prodigious talents to two of the biggest names in the history of modern music, The Chairman of the Board Frank Sinatra, and The King. His method book, Double High C in 10 Minutes, still tops sales charts, and his newest book Low Gear High Gear is destined to be another classic.    Check out what Walt has to say about his beginnings, being a good team player, why he started making horn cases, his love for creativity, starting his professional career, getting sent to Vietnam, opportunities, adjusting to the personality of superstars, Sinatra and Elvis, dealing with the demands of high profile gigs, Double High C in 10 minutes, the importance of throat size, learning from other trumpet players, mindfulness and mortality, new musical projects, Low Gear High Gear, the true meaning of music, his daily approach to the trumpet, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ---------------------------------------------------  Do you want a Double High C in 10 Minutes? Look no further: https://qpress.ca/product-category/trumpet/?filter_author-composer=johnson-walt Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture take the guesswork out of your mouthpiece search. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your order: https://www.vennture.mp/  Show your tired chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Master your mindful mindset with Jose: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets   00:00:00 Intro  00:03:36 His beginnings  00:06:51 Being a good team player  00:11:14 Why he started making horn cases  00:14:19 His love for creativity  00:16:36 Starting his professional career  00:19:40 Getting sent to Vietnam  00:26:29 Opportunities  00:29:20 Adjusting to the personality of superstars  00:32:36 Sinatra  00:36:53 Dealing with the demands of high profile gigs  00:39:46 Double High C in 10 minutes  00:45:28 The importance of throat size  00:48:15 Learning from other trumpet players  00:52:14 Mindfulness and mortality  00:54:32 New musical projects  00:57:07 Low Gear High Gear  01:01:16 The true meaning of music  01:06:58 His daily approach to trumpet  01:13:01 Sound Off  01:17:05 Geared Up  01:23:12 Rapid Fire

My guests for this episode are Ashley Killam and Carrie Blosser. Ashley and Carrie are on a mission. As the co-founders of Diversify The Stand, they have taken on the monumental task of upgrading the state of music education by giving voice to composers that represent groups that have historically been overlooked. Their first major project, Winds Of Change, offers a progressive approach to trumpet solo literature. But it’s their mindset and teamwork that make them a force to be reckoned with. Check out what Ashley and Carrie have to say about Ashley’s inspiration, Carrie’s journey, their target demographic, working as a team, the impact of their work, dealing with the haters, where change needs to start, Rising Tide Music Press, the power of seeing someone you identify with, being the role model, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! ---------------------------------------------------------- Support Diversify The Stand: https://www.diversifythestand.org/ Connect with Ashley: https://www.ashleykillam.com/ Keep up with Carrie: https://www.carrieblosser.com/ Master your mindful mindset with Jose: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank: http://barkleymic.com/ Get geared up with Vennture Mouthpieces. Save 10% with the code “TRUMPETGURUS21”: https://www.vennture.mp/ Show your chops some love with Robinson’s Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:55 Ashley’s inspiration 00:06:16 Carrie’s journey 00:10:24 Their target demographic 00:15:58 Working as a team 00:21:32 The impact of their work 00:23:10 Dealing with the haters 00:31:58 Where change needs to start 00:43:37 Rising Tide Music Press 00:48:36 The power of seeing someone you identify with 00:52:53 Being the role model 00:56:29 Sound Off! With Ashley and Carrie 01:01:18 Geared up! With Ashley and Carrie 01:08:06 Robinson’s Remedies Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is James Tyler Jaeger.   If you haven’t heard Tyler play yet, just give it a little while, and I guarantee you will. After 10-years of honing his craft in military bands, Tyler has returned to civilian life in Nashville and has rapidly become a highly sought-after player for sessions and road gigs alike. And as part of the new supergroup, Vinnie and the Hitmen, Tyler’s high-caliber style of playing will be lighting up stages and blowing up on social media before you can even blink.  Check out what Tyler has to say about why he chose the military route, breaking into the Nashville music scene, the advantages of living in Nashville, his early musical influences, his relationship with Vinnie Ciesielski, the Nashville talent pool, what makes the Nashville sound so unique, being a multi-faceted player, being a team player, Vinnie and the Hitmen, finding balance, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/  Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you find the mouthpiece of your dreams: https://www.vennture.mp/ Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to save 10%.    Giging hard? Show your chops some love with Robison's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove   Get your mind right with Mindfulness Secrets: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets   00:00:00 Intro  00:02:40 Why he chose the military   00:05:47 Breaking into the Nashville music scene  00:15:07 The advantages of living in Nashville   00:17:44 His early musical influences   00:25:54 His relationship with Vinnie Ciesielski   00:28:28 The Nashville talent pool  00:35:16 What makes the Nashville sound so different  00:38:30 Being a multi-faceted player  00:42:15 Being a team player  00:45:36 Vinnie and the Hitmen  00:52:23 Finding a balance  00:57:42 Sound Off! With Tyler Jaeger   01:00:27 Geared Up! With Tyler Jaeger   01:09:50 Robinson's Remedies Rapid Fire Round

My guest for this episode is Melvin Jones.   Melvin is an inspirational man. As the trumpet professor at the historic Morehouse College, Melvin is dedicated to using his keen analytical mind and practical world experience to not only help his students become better trumpet players but also fulfill the Morehouse motto and live a life of distinction. Plus, dude can flat-out play!   Check out what Melvin has to say about the rich history of Morehouse College, living up to a historic legacy, the impact of Tyler Perry, why every gig is important, his approach to teaching trumpet, separating instinct from control, the impact of heritage and culture on playing the trumpet, mouthpiece size, the most common problem for trumpet players, teaching players to become more consistent, the Black Gold Orchestra, and so much more!   So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin!  ---------------------------------------------------------------  The homepage of Melvin Jones: https://www.melvinjones.net Support the Black Gold Orchestra: https://www.gofundme.com/f/blackgoldorchestra Sound like a million dollars without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Still searching for the perfect mouthpiece? Let Vennture Mouthpieces help. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" for 10% off your order!: https://www.vennture.mp/ Show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove  Let Jose help you get your mindset right: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets   00:00:00 Intro  00:02:33 The rich history of Morehouse College  00:12:59 Living up to a historic legacy  00:19:37 The impact of Tyler Perry  00:22:13 Why every gig is important  00:26:16 His approach to teaching trumpet  00:34:23 Separating instinct from control  00:40:36 The impact of heritage and culture on playing the trumpet  00:44:12 Mouthpiece size  00:48:51 The most common problem for trumpet players  00:53:04 Teaching players to become more consistent  01:03:51 The Black Gold Orchestra  01:15:13 Sound Off! With Melvin Jones  01:18:37 Geared Up! With Melvin Jones  01:23:06 Robinson's Remedies Rapid Fire Round