I have never taken an online lesson before, what do I need?

Online lessons can seem daunting but once you get used to them they’re very easy! You need a computer (laptop or desktop) with a camera and a microphone. Most laptops have these built in. If you are using a desktop computer, you may need to invest in a webcam and microphone, but these are reasonably priced and readily available, as well as easy to prepare.

The video chat happens through any of the following applications: whatsapp, skype, facetime, zoom, messenger or teams. You are free to choose whichever one is easiest for you. Once you have the address its really no more difficult than making a phone call. At the start of each session we will do a quick volume test, just in case of any technical problems, and then we’re away!
 

Do you teach other brass instruments?

Trumpet Brain teaching is aimed specifically at HIGH BRASS INSTRUMENTS so I do not teach Horn/Trombone/Tuba. High brass instruments include trumpets, piccolo trumpet, cornet, flugelhorn.

 

 

I am just a beginner, will you teach me?

 

Of course! I have taught all levels of player and am enthusiastic about setting beginners off on the right foot. You’ll get more out of the lessons if you are able to read music and understand the basic workings of the instrument (fingerings, hand position etc.) but it’s not essential. Book yourself a consultation and assessment lesson and see how it goes!

 

 

Will my lessons cause me to lose progress in band/school/orchestra?

Almost every part of the process and experience is personalised for you, so can work around whatever your goals are! Of course, if you want to change something as quickly as possible; this may mean some restructuring and initially some technical changes, which could affect your ensemble playing. However, there are plenty of reasons (including ensemble commitments) why a student might want to work a bit slower and affect change over a longer period of time, which is another reason why the initial assessment and consultation lesson is essential.

 

 

Are you able to help me prepare for a one-off project or concert?

 

Generally, I prefer to work with students over a longer period of time, where both parties can see clear and positive steps forward in the student’s overall trumpet playing, not just on a single piece or concerto. However, the process is personal and everything is up to you! If you want help preparing for an exam or performance then even just taking the first assessment and consultation lesson will provide you with a lot of feedback, as well as giving us the time to make a short-term plan in the run up to your event!

 

 

Can you help me play high notes?

The short answer is yes! I couldn’t play high notes until I gained a greater level of understanding and adopted the approach of Trumpet Brain Teaching. However, it is important to understand that this is a process of learning and experimentation, and thus requires concentration, commitment and dedication. You won’t necessarily gain range overnight and you have to be prepared to make adjustments to your playing in order to change the results you are playing!

 

Do you make students play the same mouthpiece/trumpet as you?

No.

 

 

Can I play my C trumpet in the lesson?

Of course! Whatever instrument you are most comfortable working on!
 

 

Can I skip the assessment and consultation lesson?

All first-time students must take the assessment and consultation lesson so that I can get to hear and understand your playing so as to better suggest a plan moving forward. You also get a written assessment of your playing which, hopefully, should prove useful even if you do not choose to continue with lessons.

 

 

Why is the assessment and consultation lesson more expensive than a normal hour lesson?

The assessment and consultation lesson is the important first step on your journey with Trumpet Brain Teaching. Not only do you receive an experienced assessment and discussion within the lesson, but you will also receive a written assessment and plan for moving forward based on the discussions within the lesson. As such, you are paying not only for the time, thought and preparation after it, which usually amounts to several hours!

 

 

Can I bulk-buy lessons?

 

I tend not to sell lessons as a ‘bulk package’ (unless you are interested in the 5 day intensive course) as each student is individual and an arbitrary number of lessons cannot represent what the student may need.

 

 

Do I need a regular weekly slot?

Lessons can occur on a regular or semi-regular basis. There is no need to have a set weekly-time but this can be mutually arranged if it is preferred.

 

 

Will these lessons interfere with my normal teacher/lessons?

Personally, I do not think that an additional input is a hindrance and my teaching is focused on giving the student a basic scientific understanding of the playing process, so shouldn’t interfere with your current lessons. However, as with all pedagogy, there will likely be some divergences and you can decide after the Consultation and Assessment whether it will work for you.

 

 

What age groups do you teach?

Anyone who is old enough to hold the trumpet and understand instruction is welcome to come for an assessment and consultation lesson.

​

 

Do you teach students in different time zones?

Yes! I have taught students across the world. Of course, a mutually acceptable time will have to be negotiated, but I have yet to experience a problem teaching across time zones.

 

​

Do you teach classical or jazz players?

 

I studied both jazz and classical music through conservatoire, and have played in professional Symphony Orchestras, Jazz Orchestras, Shows and Session orchestras in venues including the Royal Festival Hall, Barbican Hall, the Vortex Jazz Club, the Dominion Theatre and Angel Studios. I personally believe that good trumpet playing, and trumpet technique, transcends style or genre and am more than comfortable to teach a student from any idiom.