| Eric
Even though I play professionally, I still and will always consider myself a student. I recently had the chance to gig with a great jazz pianist named Mel Rhyme who used to record and perform with Wes Montgomery. I learned more from those two gigs than I can even begin to describe.
I personally take the chance to study with someone great whenever I can. I frequently gain insight from Scott Wendholt whom I teach alongside at the Jamey Aebersold camps....same goes for Pat Harbison who is also there every summer. I would travel as far as I needed to go, but I am always on the lookout for lessons or just a hang on music/trumpet whenever it reveals itself close by. In November I am getting together with Al Hood for a lesson/hang when he comes to Kentucky. In addition, I would look for anyone good who plays in the genre I prefer ( jazz ) ... it need not be a trumpeter. I have learned a ton from a local Vibraphonist who has played with all the heavies. he recently did a gig with Joe Lovano in Cinncinatti and he relayed everything he learned to me over a drink the other night. It was almost like getting a lesson from Joe himself!
Anyway- Hope that helps. You will never stop taking lessons or learning, and I bet you would be surprised what might present itself in the way of learning opportunities in your local area.
Best wishes
Matt |