I received this message this past week and because of the house full of family I am a little behind on my posts.
I would like to thank this gentleman for his questions and due to the fact that many have indicated that they were also “comeback” players, I thought I would share with you my thoughts on this big move.
As always, my comments are in BOLD type and our reader’s comments are in regular type.
Went social security in 2010, and part time on my job. Within a couple months, decided it was time to get back to being serious of trumet playing. Have since connected with a local concert band (community) and church orchestra. Have had three trumpet lessons since taking back up the trumpet; first one was with a local trumpet professional (U.S. Navy); next two were by another professinal trumpet player from Michigan (met online via webcam). All three were most useful, and want to take more lessons and more frequently (1st was Feb, 2011; last two were in July same year), but on fixed income and difficult to find resources to pay for lessons.
Sounds as if you are very interested in getting back at it. Good for you. If during your recent lessons, did either of your teachers mention any drastic problems, such as extreme left or right or up or down mouthpiece placement?
If there is no issue there, we can assume you have a good foundation to be working with.
Sorry about the long story, but wanted you to know my background and to help you understand that what I’m faced with is a real passion for trumpet playing and music in general, a passion that I really wasn’t aware of until a couple years ago. I’m to the point of seriously regretting giving up on the trumpet like I did, and not pursuing a career as professional trumpet, only because I believe now that I would have been much happier
We all can wonder what would have happened if we had done things different but for now, you are focused on playing better on the horn and that is what we will look at.
I’m interested in what you think about a 64 year old comeback trumpet player finding a way to eventually get full time work as a trumpet player. Is it a foolish pipe dream, or have you known some who have succeeded this late in life?
Your first issue I can address from personal experience. We are seeing increased numbers of “comeback” players all the time. Music is something that is in all of us and to some it is entertainment, to others it is as important as the blood flowing through out veins. You obviously are one of us.
To address your second question I can again discuss from personal experience. When I moved to Branson 12 years ago, there were 12 to 15 trumpet players working full time in the shows. Today there is only 1 and the future of his job depends on health issues of the headliner.
Obviously the availability of an opening for any trumpet player will affect you chances. At this time, living in Branson are at least 6 high level trumpet players who have played with every one you could name. There are high level studio players who are not employed at this time in the business. Even without hearing you play, it would be surprising if you would be able to get work here. On the other hand your area could be able to support more musicians and that would be a great determinant as to how much work you could get. If it were only determined by will power, I think you could do well but there are other issues which have to be faced.
I grew up in a small town with not much going on, but for past five years, am living in a metropolan area (Norfolk Va) that has more to offer in opportunities in just about anything.
I know of a good friend and student of mine from your area and he was able to do very well fronting his own big band and had a lot of work. The area will be your first hurdle to overcome or benefit from.
Thank you for visiting our site and I’m sure you will do well as a player. At this time in this economy, I would suggest that you continue your playing and as you get more experience and technique; when the economy changes, you will be ready to make the jump.
Best of luck to you and yours.
A little over 4 yrs. ago I retired and immediately began playing after a 41 yr. hiatus. I was a trained player through HS and did well. Here is what I have learned.
First, decide what you want from music. If you want excellence, be prepared to put in the time. First and foremost, find an instructor who will meticulously build your foundation. This will take a year at least.
Work on all aspects of your play every time you pick up the horn. For example, if you are doing scales, make sure you are making clean attacks. Make sure you are making clean passes over the valves. Listen to what is coming out of the bell.
Work on flexibility daily. This is an essential aspect for excellent play.
Play music. Work on etudes commensurate with your current skill level. Use a metronome.
Join a Community Band. Enjoy your new gift!
If you are serious about your play, spend time each day on things like multiple tonguing and lip trills. Also, work a bit each day on range. Don’t obsess over range. It will come. Just be patient.
Last comment. Hard work is always rewarded. However, it takes time and patience. I didn’t realize in HS that true personal excellence takes many thousands of hours of dedicated practice. I am playing a bit over 1000 hrs. per year. I have rocketed way past my best in HS. No everyone can devote 3 hrs. per day to play but if you do, trust me, you will see tremendous results.
Excellent advice on every count!
I do hope my readers understand and take your advice to heart for being a “come back player” can many times surprise you as to how far you can progress.