With the support of the Royal Swedish Academy of Music, this ensemble took part in the 1988 International Competition for Brass Quintets in Narbonne, France, where it won first prize. The quintet has played a major role in expanding the modern repertoire of brass quintets. Since its founding, it has…
These posts are written by: Bruce Chidester
Rest As Much As You Play
My response to the discussion posted on TPIN There seems to be a flurry of excitement on the TPIN site about the comfort of your lip or the “rest as much as you play” discussion, and for that reason, I would like to add to the discussion. Everyone would like…
Studio musicians- Don Thomas, the best……
Musical employment can take many forms. Some musicians spend their careers in symphony orchestras. Some make a living performing in theaters in New York and Las Vegas, and some may find employment on the road with big bands. In each case, the thrill and sometimes disappointment is worth all of…
THE 2025-2025 KING’S BRASS AUDITIONS
“I just received this recent announcement of dates and times of auditions for this amazing ensemble (The King’s Brass), and Mr. Zimmerman has asked me to share this with our readers”, Greetings from The King’s Brass- The group just finished their 2024 Christmas & 2025 January Tours. From Christmas at Mt.…
Nathan Little- In His Own Words
From time to time, we are impressed with people and/or things that seem more important than the norm. This was the case when I first encountered the musicianship of the son of one of my best friends and college Don Little (Tuba extrordinare, University of North Texas faculty). For a…
How to Practice- Petite Piece Concertante
Petite Piece Concertante has been one of the main staples in the literature of our instrument and also one of the most deceivingly difficult solos to perform in a true musical fashion. One reason for this musical deception is the fact that the solo is not an ordinary solo where…
Technology and Trumpet Playing
We live in a very fast passed world which includes constant innovations in all areas of our lives. Artificial Intelligence has changed the way we collect information, advancements in medicine is prolonging our lives as well as improvements even in our automobiles and manufacturing practices. But who could have predicted…
Jazz Is Alive and Well in Sherman, Texas…
If you have not spent some time in Sherman, Texas, you have missed an event that you would have remembered for the rest of your life. If you are a Jazz fan and have not experienced the amazing collection of Jazz memorabilia in Sherman, Texas, you are not a true…
Is There A God and Can He Perform Miracles? Part 2
After reading our first post, Is There A God and Can He Perform Miracles? Part 1 – Trumpet Blog , some may ask why these miraculous changes occurred? Were they simple coincidences or is there actually power in prayer? Only each individual will be able to answer this question. But,…
Is There A God and Can He Perform Miracles? Part 1
The past year has had many unexpected turns which can test one’s faith and understanding of life. April of last year began unexpectedly when it was discovered that my wife had developed cancer in her right eye. After its extraction we were faced with the saddening fact that the cancer…