resonator

College auditions are coming and im looking for ways to enhance my playing by early march. What are some ways to systematically improve various aspects of trumpet playing? For example, flexibility, endurance, sound,speed, etc. I need real consistent improvement overall. Thanks

pwillini

Someone's going to say it, so I will - PRACTICE!

Can't wait for Ed's plan!

__________________
Music's only purpose should be the glory of God and the recreation of the human spirit - J. S. Bach

2004 ZeuS Olympus ARLX
1976 Bach 37 Strad
1990 Blessing ML1-G Artist Edition
1917 Conn Victor New Wonder Cornet

resonator

Yea thats the point. The question is WHAT to practice.

Derek Reaban

resonator,

Here are some resources to consider:

Notes on Practicing by Chris Gekker

Summer Practice by Chris Gekker

Fundamentally Speaking by Craig Morris

Hope this helps!

__________________
Derek Reaban
Tempe, Arizona

ecarroll

Res,

Please don't feel that I'm dodging your question, but it's simply impossible to recommend materials for you to work on without hearing you play to determine your needs. Every musician/trumpet player is marvelously unique and there is no "one size fits all" methodology (if someone suggests otherwise thank them and pay absolutely no attention).

Trumpet technique might be described as a subtle balance of flow, focus, and flexibility across the entire register and applied to a wide range of dynamics. Furthermore, the exercises that you practice are a means to an end (music), not an end themselves.

What does your teacher suggest?

Watching here,
EC

resonator

My teacher suggest working on breath attacks, and fundamentals. Most our lessons are about excerps right now, even though he says to dedicate more time to fundamentals.

ecarroll

Res,

Then spend the majority of your time on your fundamentals (most your age should). Breath attacks are good to stimulate speed/flow at the point of attack.

A small hint from somebody who listens to countless auditions: the health of your basic technique, not your interpretation of Mahler, is what will get you into a good music school. We search for students that we can easily build (no reconstruction projects during a degree, please) and who have the right attitude about hard work and imaginative music making.

Where are you auditioning?

Best,
EC

resonator

How can you tell that person is somebody you can easily build, has right attitude and imagination? Just by their fundamentals? Can you go into more detail about what you look for? THanks

ecarroll

Res,

My auditions are a bit different than others...usually about 10 minutes of playing and 20 minutes of interview/getting to know one another.

Your ability to play (or not) is quickly heard. The rest is far more revealing. Think about who you are why you're auditioning for that particular school.

EC