These posts are written by: Bruce Chidester

Tips for Improving Your Sight Reading

Many times we are held back by our inability to read new material quickly and accurately. This weakness can surface while playing in a band, on a gig, or in a recording session. Some players seem to be able to read anything placed on their stand while others fumble with…

What Ever Happened To Geoff Gallante?

When we think we have reached the top, along comes someone like this that reminds us we are not all that good. Looks as if we have some new blood in the trumpet world and are we happy about that. Enjoy the future of trumpet playing. 8yr old Geoff Gallante–all…

The OcToBrass Range Builder

They Say “If you haven’t tried it, don’t knock it”. So…..I’ve tried it, now I’ll knock it. A friend of mine asked me to try his new OcToBrass Range Builder and let him know what I thought of it. I will first list the claims its inventor advertises and give…

Flow Studies by Vincent Cichowicz

Seldom do we have the opportunity to have student’s insight shared in the teaching method of a world class trumpet teacher. When this interview was brought to my attention, I wanted to share it with you. For those of you who did not have the privilege of visiting with Mr.…

Thanks Jay

The name Jay Daversa is not a well known name to the younger players but to the professional trumpet circle, he is very well known and respected; not only as a player but also a gifted arranger and composer. To the working musicians in Branson, the name Jay refers to…

Why Should I Extend My Third Slide On Low D?

Band directors are constantly asking their students to adjust their instruments on out of tune notes and unfortunately many students are unaware of the need. I will try to first identify the most difficult notes and suggest some exercises which will help students know exactly how much adjustment needs to…

Gap Or No gap? That Is The Distance.

To most players, the depth that the trumpet mouthpiece extends into the mouthpiece receiver means nothing. To some, it is imperative that the distance be calculated and established. To some, the controversy has never come up. We will try to first explain what is meant by the gap, then how…