Studio musicians- Don Thomas, the best……

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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 hours and day one has spent in practice rooms around the country, and world. One segment of music which seldom is talked about is the working studio musician, and one of the best was Mr. Don Thomas. I have written previously about this trumpet legion but recently I came…

Jazz Is Alive and Well in Sherman, Texas…

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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 Jazz fan! If you think you know a lot about the history of Jazz, you are delusional! I encourage you to experience a true transformation back to the time of the big bands, tight Jazz combos and the legacy, history and “feel” of America’s only true art form. You need…

Arban Characteristic Study #1- Trumpet Duet

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Sometimes I like to visit old projects from the past as in this case. Etude playing alone is not an activity I enjoy but coupling the same etude with a second part can add much more excitement and enthusiasm to the activity. This arrangement of Arban Characteristic Study #1- Trumpet Duet has been a very popular item for us at trumpetensemblemusic.com

Trumpet High Range Development- Part 2…..”Why Can He/She Do It And I Can’t”?

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Click Below.. Do I have your attention? How about this one…… And don’t forget the Jazzers….. Doesn’t it make you want to hang it up? These kids are hitting notes I have only dreamed of.   My encounter with one so gifted….. I began performing on my first Cornet when I was nine years old. I am now eighty-two, have taught and performed on Trumpet for seventy-three years and still do not have a solid G above high C. What’s wrong with this picture? How is it possible that a 12 year old, who has been practicing for only a…

THE 2024-2025 KING’S BRASS AUDITIONS

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If you have not heard this talented brass ensemble, where have you been for the past 50 years? This is the ensemble that got me started thinking of trumpet ensembles. Tim Zimmerman was the first person who inspired me to pursue an active interest in trumpet ensemble music. The Kings Brass was the first ensemble to demonstrate what could be done with our chosen instrument. There would not have been a Branson Trumpet Ensemble if it weren’t for Mr. Zimmerman support in our early years in Cedar Falls, Iowa. The amount of dedication Mr. Zimmerman has given to great brass…

Required Listening Assignment

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As the interest in Trumpet choirs continues to grow, some ensembles seem to occupy the highest level of professionalism. Such is the case for the San Luis Obispo County Trumpet Alliance and their most accomplished director Warren Balfour. I have had the pleasure of knowing and following this remarkable ensemble for several years and continue to be impressed not only with their playing ability but also their range of music which spans everything from Bach to Rock. If this talented ensemble is new to you, be sure to check out all of their videos and if you happen to be…