About
I have a proven track record helping students overcome issues with playing, winning auditions and getting full rides to Colleges.
I also successfully taught online for over 15 years.
I enjoy giving back and watching the successes my students have big or small!
Photos and videos
Reviews
Matthew F.
Sheri p.
Nasi S.
Sheri P.
Al K.
Ron V.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I will first have the student play a selection of their choice, then determine what they are looking to improve, discuss short term goals and long term gaols.
Second, I demonstrate how the "Big Three" (Air, Aperture and Embouchure) play an important role in sound production and overall trumpet health.
The "Big Three" will build a solid foundation.
Beginning students usually grasp these concepts quicker than students with school or self training.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
With over 27 years of teaching, performing , auditioning and studio recording I have learned concepts and techniques that have helped me acheive more than I ever thought possible.
I have a Bachelors in Trumpet Performance from Fort Lewis College, Durango Colorado and over 50 Credit hours towards my Masters in Trumpet Performance from New Mexico State University.
Taking private lessons myself has been the most invaluable tool in molding me as a professional in the industry as well as teaching concepts.
(Bobby Shew, International solo artist; Don Tison, Retired 35 year principal trumpet of the Baltimore Symphony and many more)
How did you get started teaching?
My grandfather was a self taught trumpet player. His style parralelled that of the great Louis Armstrong.
I started learning trumpet at the age of seven and began teaching in a local music store while in middle school. Many years went by just passing on the basics I was learning myself through private lessons.
Finally in 2000 I began the quest of figuring out how take my playing to the next level. I spent countless hours analyzing different techniques, watching videos, talking to professionals, etc to learn what they knew.
I developed a new passion to pass on all this information to help trumpet players acheive their own gaols in half the time.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all types of students from 3rd grade all the way to late 70's.
Beginners, high school, college, come back players to retired professionals looking for help.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
The Maynard Ferguson tribute concert was not recent but will live with me the rest of my life. It was held in St Louis in 2006. I was from and center to hear over well over 40 professionals that had worked with him over the years!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Lessons are an investment and should not be taken lightly. Practice is the only way you get better.
Make sure you and the teacher have good chemistry and their track record and concepts align with what they offer.
Patients and persistance will lead to Passion!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
1) Why do you want to take lessons?
2) What is your short and long term gaols?
3) Can you carve out the time to practice each week.