Oakdale, IA Trumpet Lessons

I have gladly devoted the past 20 years of my life to understanding this wonderful instrument.

I want you to learn to express yourself through the trumpet, to help you master it and have lots of fun in the process! Trumpet was my second musical instrument (my first was my voice!), which I played through most of grade school and into high school. I can help you with good breath support and creating clear, steady tone.

I have over 20 years' experience playing the trumpet and can use that experience to help you learn. Emphasis on tone while developing other aspects from the basics to advanced techniques.

35 + yrs playing/teaching experience
Classical to Jazz
Fun mixed with work

I am a professional orchestral trombonist and I have been an active brass teacher for almost twenty years. I have played in orchestras across the USA and Europe, including the Cincinnati Symphony, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Scottish Chamber Orchestra and many more.

I aim to give my students a solid understanding of the technical skills required to play a brass instrument, and to share with them the musical knowledge I have gained from studying with some of the best brass teachers in the world.

Beginners will learn how to hold and take care of their trumpet. I'll also teach how to get a sound out of the horn, reading music and some scales

Intermediate students will polish their reading skills as well as learn the scales, arpeggios, flexibility and dexterity exercises to take their fluency on trumpet to the next level.

Advanced players have the opportunity to learn how to expand their upper register, how to improvise in Jazz and/or whatever else the student would like to improve on their trumpet.

Trumpet is the most physical instrument that requires your whole body to work efficiently. Understanding the breath and how to relax the body goes a long way in learning the trumpet.

I have helped many trumpet students place in All-State ensembles, compete for seating placements, and earn top marks in solo and ensemble competitions.

I believe that playing trumpet and making music should be enjoyable, whether that is by playing music that you love, mastering a technique, or having new and exciting experiences through musical performance. For me it's all three. I have performed all styles of music, overcome technical challenges, and have enjoyed unique experiences on four continents all because I play the trumpet.

In my teaching, I focus on musical expression, creativity, and technique. Everybody has their own unique set of strengths and challenges, and by weighing these three aspects properly, we can find the best way to make the most improvement and have the most fun.