As the sun sets on another day, I find myself sitting at my desk, trumpet in hand, ready to embark on a journey that has become a cherished part of my life. It wasn't always this way, though. Like many, I had put my musical aspirations on the backburner, consumed by the demands of work and everyday responsibilities. But something changed a few years ago. I stumbled upon an online trumpet lesson course taught by the renowned instructor, Kurt Thompson. His approach was unlike anything I had experienced before – a perfect blend of technical expertise and genuine passion for the instrument. Suddenly, the spark that had been dormant for so long reignited, and I knew I had to make...
As a brass player, whether you're a seasoned professional or a dedicated student, performance anxiety can be a formidable challenge. The pressure of being on stage, the fear of making mistakes, and the desire to deliver a flawless performance can all contribute to a debilitating state of nervousness. However, with the right strategies and mindset, you can overcome this obstacle and perform with confidence and ease. Embrace the Butterflies It's important to understand that a certain level of nervousness is natural and even beneficial. The adrenaline rush can heighten your senses, sharpen your focus, and give you the energy to perform at your best. The key is to learn how to channel this energy in a positive way, rather than...
The trumpet has a way of captivating the soul, drawing us in with its powerful, emotive sound that seems to speak directly to the heart. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner just starting out, the trumpet has a unique ability to evoke a range of emotions, from the triumphant and heroic to the deeply introspective and melancholic. For many of us, the trumpet is more than just an instrument – it's a lifelong companion, a means of self-expression, and a gateway to a world of musical exploration. Take Kurt Thompson, for example, a renowned trumpet instructor whose online lessons have helped countless students of all levels improve their skills and reignite their passion for the instrument. "The trumpet...
As a trumpet player, you know the struggle of maintaining a strong embouchure. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a comeback player, the fatigue and strain on your lips can be a constant battle. But have you ever wondered why this happens and what you can do to build endurance? The Science of Embouchure Strength The embouchure, the way you position your lips and facial muscles to play the trumpet, is a complex and delicate system. It involves a intricate interplay of muscles, tendons, and ligaments that work together to produce the perfect tone. When you play the trumpet, these muscles contract and relax, creating the vibrations that produce the sound. However, the embouchure muscles are relatively small and can...
Are you a trumpet player who's been away from the instrument for a while? Trying to make a comeback but struggling with your embouchure strength? You're not alone. Many musicians, whether they're professional players or passionate amateurs, find themselves in this situation at some point in their careers. The good news is that with the right approach, you can rebuild your embouchure strength and get back to playing at your best. In this blog post, we'll explore some key exercises that can help you achieve success as a comeback player. Lip Buzzing One of the most effective ways to strengthen your embouchure is through lip buzzing. This simple exercise involves placing your lips together and buzzing them, just as you...
