Hi Manny,
In church this morning I was asked if could play the Stanley trumpet tune for someone's wedding. Great, I love playing for weddings!
The downside is that it is a week on Saturday, not much time to practise. And I apart from occasional outings, I haven't played regularly for a year or so (shame on me!)
Also, the bride was quite vague - that's all the information I have yet. I have music for the Stanley trumpet voluntary, Op6 no5, not totally sure if that's what she meant. She promised to drop a CD round, but in the last minute preparations for a wedding, I'm not counting on it.
I'm looking for some advice on two fronts
- how can I best get back into shape quickly?
- any hints on how best to approach the piece itself
Basically, I'm a recreational trumpet player who has played on and off in church music groups. I have played the Stanley before, but only in practice. I'm reasonably confident that I can pull it off, but it's towards the upper end of my ability range.
On the piece itself, the comment on the score I have says "pointed and rhythmic", and suggests clipping the dotted quavers to a quaver with a semiquaver rest. Would you agree with that, Manny? Also, what speed do you recommend? I've been practising at about 108 bpm.
The score I have is in Bb, and I only have a Bb trumpet (before Wilmer suggests I use a D trumpet, I don't know anyone who has one. although I might be able to borrow a C). I don't know what the original key is (D?), but I don't want to take it much higher than this, given the limited time to get back in shape.
Finally, the aisle at our church is quite short, so I think the bride might have to walk incredibly slowly if I play the whole piece. Do you have any suggestions for an excerpt, or what to cut out. I don't think there will be any accompaniment, the bride asked for solo trumpet.
Thanks for any advice!
Tim