Ed,
Great starting point for a good discussion! I'm a huge believer in "you make your own scene". Through my prodding at my own school I now have two full days of teaching... 10 hours each day. It's a far cry from 1 hour of lessons three years ago.
That being said, the overall level of my students is far from what I think it should be. I think my students are not pushing themselves enough. A great majority of them have a lethargic approach to the trumpet. They don't realize that through hard work anything can be accomplished on this instrument. I try to lead by example but it's hard to inspire when they think there's nothing out there afterwards for them (bah!).
I'm also working hard at presenting clinics, either through USM, IAJE, or through my new website (
Unlock Your Talent!) that will allow students all over New England to have clinics/concerts at a small out-of-pocket expense to the school systems.
I know from driving up to Hanover to teach it's hard to get teachers up there. I'd do it again but would have to charge such a high rate most parents wouldn't do it.... or WOULD they?
I think it's so important for every musician out there to work hard at their own scene. If it's creating a solid private studio that means going to every local school and playing for the kids. That means busting your BUTT to inspire everyone who walks in your studio. That means shedding your tail off to make everything clear for your students.
If it's a musician or clinician that means calling every school and asking for time. You'd be surprised at what you get for replies. In the past two months I've had two schools get me $3000 grants for residencies for my jazz groups. The money is out there... we just need to find it!
Gigs, students, and $$ won't fall into your lap (maybe they did 30-40 years ago).
I'm blabbering (what's new?)... let's see where this unfolds!
Cheers,
T