High note jazz trumpet legends nearly single-handedly changed the desire of young trumpeters all around the world decades ago. Hearing one of these giants live was an amazing and inspiring experience, and created a desire in so many trumpet players that it could be considered near cult status for trumpeters.
Maynard Ferguson, Cat Anderson, Doc Severinsen are just a few that were extremely sought after players... they each had a command of the upper register up to and beyond Double C. The more players tried to ascend to these upper register notes, the more the mystery built. Advice in every aspect of trumpet playing can be found. Mostly confusing, and some very much incorrect.
In 2004, I had the pleasure and distinct honor of being a part of the great Maynard Ferguson's band, and got to share a lot of time with "Boss" (as we called him). While on his band, I got to ask questions, take notes, and learn from the master.
What most players who begin this quest do incorrectly is mostly over compensate and fail to see what actually generates higher notes on trumpet. It is not sheer brute force that produces these notes with power, it is control and a balance between air and aperture.
To begin this journey properly, a player must master "whisper" tones... extreme soft playing that helps the aperture stay the size of a pin hole without pinching or straining the facial muscles. Starting with a second line G and holding it as soft as possible for extended lengths of time (2 minutes to 20 minutes) and allowing ample rest will start a player on the correct path. As the player develops more control, scales, etudes, and melodies can be incorporated into practicing that will have the player ascend to higher notes. Once control is established, playing louder is merely pushing a bit more with the air and allowing the aperture to open SLIGHTLY.
There is no fast solution to this. For many players this is a lengthy journey. Especially if the trumpeter has been practicing the "higher / louder / faster" method for months or years. Old habits will have to be broken... but once they are, the trumpet player will be amazed at how easily they can ascend to Double High C and beyond!
If you are a trumpet player on this quest and would like more information and resources, please visit Brass Player Solution
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Keith Fiala
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Trumpet or Cornet - Frustration Keeps Us From Answers!
As a trumpet / cornet player continues to grow in their playing abilities, we all reach frustrating times with various skills that we either can't seem to master, or can't seem to get a grasp on quickly. To master trumpet/cornet playing, a student must have patience and tenacity! Both are required to help trumpet students through the frustrating times.
Most answers are simple than what our minds will let us accept. There have been many times that I've practiced something and it seems to fly out of the trumpet. Usually what goes through my mind is "it can't be that easy, I've been struggling so long with this!"
The quick answer is - yes, it can be that easy. Most people let the simple solutions escape them because of built up notions of complexity. Something that isn't performed easily within the first few tries, becomes more and more frustrating to the cornet/trumpet player. From double tonguing, high notes, better tone, playing pianissimo, controlling rhythm, performing difficult passages in a piece of music, learning scales, etc. These can all present challenges to each individual trumpeter or cornetist.
Working on major scales for younger students can be not only boring, but a daunting task because they are looked at as difficult in many ways. The F sharp major scale is one that has most notes sharp (or raised half step). What most students don't think about is that there are only 7 notes in each major scale. The F sharp scale has 6 sharps, so why not focus on the one natural? By practicing slowly and taking each note one by one, within a few practice sessions, this scale becomes easier. Within a week, the scale can be memorized. Within a month, it will play as easily for the trumpet student as the C major scale with no sharps or flats. Again - tenacity and patience!
For more simplified solutions, visit Brass Player Solution!
Keith Fiala
Most answers are simple than what our minds will let us accept. There have been many times that I've practiced something and it seems to fly out of the trumpet. Usually what goes through my mind is "it can't be that easy, I've been struggling so long with this!"
The quick answer is - yes, it can be that easy. Most people let the simple solutions escape them because of built up notions of complexity. Something that isn't performed easily within the first few tries, becomes more and more frustrating to the cornet/trumpet player. From double tonguing, high notes, better tone, playing pianissimo, controlling rhythm, performing difficult passages in a piece of music, learning scales, etc. These can all present challenges to each individual trumpeter or cornetist.
Working on major scales for younger students can be not only boring, but a daunting task because they are looked at as difficult in many ways. The F sharp major scale is one that has most notes sharp (or raised half step). What most students don't think about is that there are only 7 notes in each major scale. The F sharp scale has 6 sharps, so why not focus on the one natural? By practicing slowly and taking each note one by one, within a few practice sessions, this scale becomes easier. Within a week, the scale can be memorized. Within a month, it will play as easily for the trumpet student as the C major scale with no sharps or flats. Again - tenacity and patience!
For more simplified solutions, visit Brass Player Solution!
Keith Fiala
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Trumpet Books - Picking One That Makes Sense!
If you would like more information about Keith Fiala's book, or online trumpet lessons please visit: Brass Player Solution
There have been books written about all facets of playing the trumpet. Whether you want to learn better technique, better range, jazz improvisation, flexibility, or tonal control, you can find it.
What makes the choices difficult for the student is how clearly does the author speak to you? Many of the books are written in vague terms that may be clear to the author but not to the reader. And when it comes to trumpet playing, there is tons of confusion already involved for most players.
By reading about the author, you may be able to get a better idea of how they communicate. Is what they say clear, or do they go in to extreme boring detail? Do they use confusing terms, explanations, or say things that logically just don't make sense?
For instance - in the H.L. Clarke Book there is a statement that says "You will not need to strain on the high notes if you keep your lips flexible and avoid playing too loudly." What does that statement say to you? Does it tell you to not tighten your lips and use your air? Is it clear? It wasn't clear to me for over 20 years... This does NOT mean that the Clarke Studies isn't a great book, because it's one of the best written trumpet books that's ever been published. But it does mean that the reader will have to read the writing very carefully and find a teacher who understands what that statement is saying.
Is the author available? What I do is make myself readily available for any purchasers to be able to ask questions.
Take a good look in to "Secrets to Efficient Brass Playing" if you really want clarity on playing high range notes on trumpet!
Go to Brass Player Solution
Keith Fiala / Anna Romano
There have been books written about all facets of playing the trumpet. Whether you want to learn better technique, better range, jazz improvisation, flexibility, or tonal control, you can find it.
What makes the choices difficult for the student is how clearly does the author speak to you? Many of the books are written in vague terms that may be clear to the author but not to the reader. And when it comes to trumpet playing, there is tons of confusion already involved for most players.
By reading about the author, you may be able to get a better idea of how they communicate. Is what they say clear, or do they go in to extreme boring detail? Do they use confusing terms, explanations, or say things that logically just don't make sense?
For instance - in the H.L. Clarke Book there is a statement that says "You will not need to strain on the high notes if you keep your lips flexible and avoid playing too loudly." What does that statement say to you? Does it tell you to not tighten your lips and use your air? Is it clear? It wasn't clear to me for over 20 years... This does NOT mean that the Clarke Studies isn't a great book, because it's one of the best written trumpet books that's ever been published. But it does mean that the reader will have to read the writing very carefully and find a teacher who understands what that statement is saying.
Is the author available? What I do is make myself readily available for any purchasers to be able to ask questions.
Take a good look in to "Secrets to Efficient Brass Playing" if you really want clarity on playing high range notes on trumpet!
Go to Brass Player Solution
Keith Fiala / Anna Romano
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Trumpet Players Survival Guide!
The joy that one feels during and after a great performance is indescribable! It is this huge rush of positive energy straight to your soul that makes you almost addicted to playing / performing. I think that musicians and athletes alike experience the same feeling. But what about a bad performance? For me, it's almost like the world is crashing (if I let it get that over powering).
What causes a musician (in this case a trumpeter) to want to give up their passion and look elsewhere? I think if one takes a close enough look, they will find a trumpeters survival guide packed away deep within themselves.
Whether it be in business, love, music, athletics, or anything else a person can feel passionate about, we all get in to a "survival" mode at one point or another. If you're not making enough money, or paychecks are inconsistent (good month / bad month), you can tend to stay in this mode for long periods of time. So much so that we stop looking for solutions to end this phase and go more in to just trying to make it to the next "good check". Music performance (trumpeting) is no different. It's easy to get "stuck" on one thing or another and become consumed with trying to get beyond the lacking skill.
For me, it was trumpet high notes and trumpet range. My range was something that in High School I really started focusing on. I literally got stuck on working on range... it's all I practiced. So much so, that all of my other playing needs were never fulfilled. This threw me in to survival mode with trumpet playing because I couldn't see passed this one aspect. So my rhythm, timing, technique, and even tone went down hill fast! My performances were not up to par like they once were, and things just snowballed from there. Missing one high note would literally throw me in to a tail spin and wreck the rest of my performance... not caring about the music, but more about my ability to amaze and inspire the audience. A selfish desire I must add!
I ended up quitting for 3 years... miserable because I had left behind the one very thing that made my life feel like I had purpose. Coming back to it, I decided that I would not focus all of my energy on that one aspect... so devising a better approach, I found that this one skill that I so desperately wanted, came along with the rest of the package, once I worked other issues out.
If you are a trumpet or cornet player who feels stuck in survival mode too, please visit Brass Player Solution!
Keith Fiala
Follow Me On Twitter
What causes a musician (in this case a trumpeter) to want to give up their passion and look elsewhere? I think if one takes a close enough look, they will find a trumpeters survival guide packed away deep within themselves.
Whether it be in business, love, music, athletics, or anything else a person can feel passionate about, we all get in to a "survival" mode at one point or another. If you're not making enough money, or paychecks are inconsistent (good month / bad month), you can tend to stay in this mode for long periods of time. So much so that we stop looking for solutions to end this phase and go more in to just trying to make it to the next "good check". Music performance (trumpeting) is no different. It's easy to get "stuck" on one thing or another and become consumed with trying to get beyond the lacking skill.
For me, it was trumpet high notes and trumpet range. My range was something that in High School I really started focusing on. I literally got stuck on working on range... it's all I practiced. So much so, that all of my other playing needs were never fulfilled. This threw me in to survival mode with trumpet playing because I couldn't see passed this one aspect. So my rhythm, timing, technique, and even tone went down hill fast! My performances were not up to par like they once were, and things just snowballed from there. Missing one high note would literally throw me in to a tail spin and wreck the rest of my performance... not caring about the music, but more about my ability to amaze and inspire the audience. A selfish desire I must add!
I ended up quitting for 3 years... miserable because I had left behind the one very thing that made my life feel like I had purpose. Coming back to it, I decided that I would not focus all of my energy on that one aspect... so devising a better approach, I found that this one skill that I so desperately wanted, came along with the rest of the package, once I worked other issues out.
If you are a trumpet or cornet player who feels stuck in survival mode too, please visit Brass Player Solution!
Keith Fiala
Follow Me On Twitter
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Trumpet - The Heroes That Inspired Us
As far back as I can remember, trumpet playing was something that I wanted to do. My Uncle and his son both played, so by age 4, I was hooked! Not being allowed to start until I was between my 3rd and 4th grade year, it was something that I wanted more than words could say. But who really listens to a child that young...
As I got a bit older, I was introduced to trumpet players that became my hero's. Growing up in that era (70's & 80's), the internet was science fiction to most everyone, so these artists still had that certain untouchable / super star quality to them. I could listen to them on purchased records and tapes, but would have to wait for them to come through or at least close to my home town.
Trumpet players these days are literally a click away... even the super hero's of the past are readily available through the advent of the internet and You Tube. So resources to these players are very close by, and yet, are a fading memory. I was fortunate to grow up in the era that I did, as I got to hear many great artists live.
In 2004, I received the chance to tour with my ultimate super hero, Maynard Ferguson. I had followed him since as far back as I could remember. His name was always flying around both at home and at school because of his trumpet playing abilities. His command of the upper register and of the music were captivating! Sadly, we lost Maynard in 2006 to cancer... leaving a huge hole in the universe of trumpet players!
Today's heros such as Wayne Bergeron, Eric Miyashiro, Roger Ingram, Bobby Shew and countless others really need to be recognized and celebrated. Music and the arts have been morphed into something that is commercialized and less about the art itself. Jazz trumpet players sell less albums, and have fewer and fewer opportunities to play because of this. Find a trumpet super hero!
If you are a driven trumpeter and want to improve your trumpet playing, go to Brass Player Solution to find resources that are both honest, and simplified.
Keith Fiala
As I got a bit older, I was introduced to trumpet players that became my hero's. Growing up in that era (70's & 80's), the internet was science fiction to most everyone, so these artists still had that certain untouchable / super star quality to them. I could listen to them on purchased records and tapes, but would have to wait for them to come through or at least close to my home town.
Trumpet players these days are literally a click away... even the super hero's of the past are readily available through the advent of the internet and You Tube. So resources to these players are very close by, and yet, are a fading memory. I was fortunate to grow up in the era that I did, as I got to hear many great artists live.
In 2004, I received the chance to tour with my ultimate super hero, Maynard Ferguson. I had followed him since as far back as I could remember. His name was always flying around both at home and at school because of his trumpet playing abilities. His command of the upper register and of the music were captivating! Sadly, we lost Maynard in 2006 to cancer... leaving a huge hole in the universe of trumpet players!
Today's heros such as Wayne Bergeron, Eric Miyashiro, Roger Ingram, Bobby Shew and countless others really need to be recognized and celebrated. Music and the arts have been morphed into something that is commercialized and less about the art itself. Jazz trumpet players sell less albums, and have fewer and fewer opportunities to play because of this. Find a trumpet super hero!
If you are a driven trumpeter and want to improve your trumpet playing, go to Brass Player Solution to find resources that are both honest, and simplified.
Keith Fiala
Friday, August 28, 2009
Trumpet Lessons - Quick Ways to Improve
Trumpet - One of the more challenging instruments to play if the trumpeter doesn't have guidance early on in their developmental years. There are a lot of myths, confusion, and misinformation surrounding playing trumpet high notes. I've heard (and have been told) stay away from the high notes because it will wreck your sound, wreck your lip, give you a jazz tone (what ever that is), or will make you lose flexibility and control.
There is nothing further from the truth if the trumpet player approaches trumpet high notes with logic and not impatience. What gets most trumpeters into trouble is either when they venture into this territory alone, or start taking advice from those that really don't understand what makes the trumpet upper register happen in the first place.
I for one, was a player who was left to their own devices in the beginning, and then getting advice from all the wrong voices! I was 25 years in before I finally started receiving information that was a bit clearer and helped me on my path to success. By doing it "wrong" for so many years, I had to force myself to learn what was causing me to miss... some of the things that I've learned were as follows...
Smiling thins the lips - causing ANY amount of mouthpiece pressure to stop the vibration
Most players pinch or roll their lips in vs. using the airstream to speed up the air
It is FAST air that creates a high note - there is no reason to strain
Playing too loudly (or attempting to play higher notes too loud too soon) will nearly guarantee failure!
Keeping the lips in a small aperture setting (see above) like playing softly will greatly aid in high notes!
If you are a trumpet player who is really frustrated with attempting upper register notes, please visit BRASS PLAYER SOLUTION for more information that can help resolve these issues!
Keith Fiala / Anna Romano
There is nothing further from the truth if the trumpet player approaches trumpet high notes with logic and not impatience. What gets most trumpeters into trouble is either when they venture into this territory alone, or start taking advice from those that really don't understand what makes the trumpet upper register happen in the first place.
I for one, was a player who was left to their own devices in the beginning, and then getting advice from all the wrong voices! I was 25 years in before I finally started receiving information that was a bit clearer and helped me on my path to success. By doing it "wrong" for so many years, I had to force myself to learn what was causing me to miss... some of the things that I've learned were as follows...
Smiling thins the lips - causing ANY amount of mouthpiece pressure to stop the vibration
Most players pinch or roll their lips in vs. using the airstream to speed up the air
It is FAST air that creates a high note - there is no reason to strain
Playing too loudly (or attempting to play higher notes too loud too soon) will nearly guarantee failure!
Keeping the lips in a small aperture setting (see above) like playing softly will greatly aid in high notes!
If you are a trumpet player who is really frustrated with attempting upper register notes, please visit BRASS PLAYER SOLUTION for more information that can help resolve these issues!
Keith Fiala / Anna Romano
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Trumpet Rentals Vs Trumpet Ownership!
When a young student or an individual gains an interest in playing trumpet or cornet, they are faced with renting or buying. New trumpets and cornets are quite expensive these days, and require quite a commitment from the player. So purchasing (or buying) new can be quite an expensive undertaking, and if you're not sure that your young student (or you) will stick with playing the trumpet, probably not the first choice.
Most usually, the horns see some abuse because they are prone to dents and dings, and require some care. They are not as fragile as a woodwind (such as flute, clarinet or saxophones). With dents, dings, and wear, they horns lose some value, so reselling the instrument will not gain back the initial investment.
With renting, upfront it seems like a better plan, but it has its drawbacks as well. For students that take to playing and enjoy it, you are paying what seems to be a small amount each month, but adds up over time. Most have a "buy out" plan so you can own the instrument, but some are tricky with they way they word their contracts... be sure to read the fine print as you may only be credited "some" of your monthly fees toward the purchase of that instrument or toward a trade up program.
Some retailers have a trade up offer that makes it sound like what you pay for your rental will be put toward a pro level horn... in a few cases, this is not exactly true... again, only a portion of what you pay will go toward your "credit". And at $24.95 per month for 24 months, you'll get a percentage of the $598.80 that you've put in.
A simple solution is to rent for a short term (2 to 4 months) and see how your young student likes playing trumpet or cornet. If they seem to enjoy it, look for a used horn and buy it outright. You can ask questions about purchasing the rental outright... if it's a used horn, you can usually get a better deal... so instead of paying $598 for 2 years, you can buy one for $250 - $350.
If your student doesn't seem to enjoy it or have the tendency to want to stay with it, then you can take the horn back at the end of the semester or school year and not be stuck with a horn in your closet!
If you'd like a FREE beginning trumpet lesson, please visit Brass Player Solution!
Keith Fiala
Professional Trumpeter
Austin, TX
Former Maynard Ferguson Trumpeter
Most usually, the horns see some abuse because they are prone to dents and dings, and require some care. They are not as fragile as a woodwind (such as flute, clarinet or saxophones). With dents, dings, and wear, they horns lose some value, so reselling the instrument will not gain back the initial investment.
With renting, upfront it seems like a better plan, but it has its drawbacks as well. For students that take to playing and enjoy it, you are paying what seems to be a small amount each month, but adds up over time. Most have a "buy out" plan so you can own the instrument, but some are tricky with they way they word their contracts... be sure to read the fine print as you may only be credited "some" of your monthly fees toward the purchase of that instrument or toward a trade up program.
Some retailers have a trade up offer that makes it sound like what you pay for your rental will be put toward a pro level horn... in a few cases, this is not exactly true... again, only a portion of what you pay will go toward your "credit". And at $24.95 per month for 24 months, you'll get a percentage of the $598.80 that you've put in.
A simple solution is to rent for a short term (2 to 4 months) and see how your young student likes playing trumpet or cornet. If they seem to enjoy it, look for a used horn and buy it outright. You can ask questions about purchasing the rental outright... if it's a used horn, you can usually get a better deal... so instead of paying $598 for 2 years, you can buy one for $250 - $350.
If your student doesn't seem to enjoy it or have the tendency to want to stay with it, then you can take the horn back at the end of the semester or school year and not be stuck with a horn in your closet!
If you'd like a FREE beginning trumpet lesson, please visit Brass Player Solution!
Keith Fiala
Professional Trumpeter
Austin, TX
Former Maynard Ferguson Trumpeter
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Trumpet & The Tired Chops Syndrome
As a professional trumpeter, I often run in to times that I play for extended periods of time, have strenuous shows, or just push too hard. Recovering from this is more than just not playing, or taking time off. For me in particular, if I take time off after a strenuous day, I come back struggling even more.
After a hard day, I really can't say I warm down at all. I will free buzz a bit depending on how tired I am, but that is about the extent of a warm down. The next day, I extend my warm up (see Trumpet, Trumpeter, & Warm Up Woes) by playing very softly for extended periods of time... if I am still feeling a bit spent, I will usually limit my playing sessions to a few minutes and will not play anything above a High C.
What I've found through the years, is that it takes time to let the lips heal. I saw times with Maynard Ferguson where he would be extremely beat up from a long run of performances. He too would extend his warm ups, but also could take time away and come back strong.
What tends to happen to our lips is exactly what happens to a tired runner, exhausted athlete, etc. Our muscles need time to rebuild... if done properly, we can bounce back stronger... if we ignore the tired feeling or soreness, we can actually do more damage by staying in a tired or "torn down" state.
If you find yourself in a situation where your chops just don't respond, and you've played hard the previous day, give your muscles the day to be relaxed by playing softly in short practice segments.
For more information that can help you in your quest as a trumpeter, please visit Brass Player Solution!
Keith Fiala
After a hard day, I really can't say I warm down at all. I will free buzz a bit depending on how tired I am, but that is about the extent of a warm down. The next day, I extend my warm up (see Trumpet, Trumpeter, & Warm Up Woes) by playing very softly for extended periods of time... if I am still feeling a bit spent, I will usually limit my playing sessions to a few minutes and will not play anything above a High C.
What I've found through the years, is that it takes time to let the lips heal. I saw times with Maynard Ferguson where he would be extremely beat up from a long run of performances. He too would extend his warm ups, but also could take time away and come back strong.
What tends to happen to our lips is exactly what happens to a tired runner, exhausted athlete, etc. Our muscles need time to rebuild... if done properly, we can bounce back stronger... if we ignore the tired feeling or soreness, we can actually do more damage by staying in a tired or "torn down" state.
If you find yourself in a situation where your chops just don't respond, and you've played hard the previous day, give your muscles the day to be relaxed by playing softly in short practice segments.
For more information that can help you in your quest as a trumpeter, please visit Brass Player Solution!
Keith Fiala
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Trumpet - Natural Ability Vs. Tenacity!
Trumpet and cornet players are typical artists that are victims of misinformation and misleading necessities to be successful at their craft. All too often, trumpet teachers during the students trumpet lessons tell the trumpet players that they are lacking in natural ability and will have to work harder at this that or the other. Most often comments surround such skills as playing trumpet high notes, improvisation in jazz idioms, and musical style and approach.
I am one that does NOT believe that it requires a trumpet / cornet player (or any other artist for that matter) to be born with an extraordinary skill or "natural ability" that just needs refining. I am a trumpeter that has heard both sides of that idea! As a young player, I was really enjoying my instrument and my teachers and family would tell me that I had a "gift", etc. As I got into High School and started getting more interested in cars and girls, my practicing became more about trying to hit high notes with NO guidance as to proper technique vs. practicing skills that would help me grow as a trumpet player... that brought on comments about how you have to be "born with a skill", etc. Now that I'm older and have worked VERY hard on my current skill set, I've had people tell me that I have a natural ability once again... I can tell you that I don't! It comes down to absolute tenacity!
Maynard Ferguson was one that I got to spend a lot of time with in 2004 that was ALWAYS tagged as having a gift... he told me that it wasn't a gift, but rather a desire. Saying that his trumpet was his favorite toy as a kid!
So if you're reading this and feeling discouraged, step back a moment. Your lacking skill just requires more patience and tenacity from you... if you truly focus on your goal and practice slowly and deliberately, you can't fail! Proper guidance is a must!
That's why I wrote "Secrets to Efficient Brass Playing!"
Keep studying!
I am one that does NOT believe that it requires a trumpet / cornet player (or any other artist for that matter) to be born with an extraordinary skill or "natural ability" that just needs refining. I am a trumpeter that has heard both sides of that idea! As a young player, I was really enjoying my instrument and my teachers and family would tell me that I had a "gift", etc. As I got into High School and started getting more interested in cars and girls, my practicing became more about trying to hit high notes with NO guidance as to proper technique vs. practicing skills that would help me grow as a trumpet player... that brought on comments about how you have to be "born with a skill", etc. Now that I'm older and have worked VERY hard on my current skill set, I've had people tell me that I have a natural ability once again... I can tell you that I don't! It comes down to absolute tenacity!
Maynard Ferguson was one that I got to spend a lot of time with in 2004 that was ALWAYS tagged as having a gift... he told me that it wasn't a gift, but rather a desire. Saying that his trumpet was his favorite toy as a kid!
So if you're reading this and feeling discouraged, step back a moment. Your lacking skill just requires more patience and tenacity from you... if you truly focus on your goal and practice slowly and deliberately, you can't fail! Proper guidance is a must!
That's why I wrote "Secrets to Efficient Brass Playing!"
Keep studying!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Trumpet / Cornet - Working Through The Frustration
Trumpet / Cornet players all tend to hit very frustrating times during their playing / practice life. Some of those frustrations are short lived, while others can be what feels like forever.
The term "take it one day at a time" doesn't sound like it would help and a bit cliche', but it's true. Each day is a new practice session for every trumpeter! Some players let the feeling of being overwhelmed and frustrated get to the boiling point. So all they focus on IS the frustration and they stop looking for the solution.
If this sounds like you, I suggest taking a step back and allow yourself to forget about the frustrating problem... start looking for a simple answer. Most problems only get larger or stay in our paths because we try to find overly complicated solutions. Break down in your mind the movements that should be in the action and the movements that should not! Such as - articulation. Your tongue should be moving in a Dah - Gah pattern for double tonguing... if when you're playing, your tongue feels as though it's in a different position from when you're speaking it, make it feel the same. With range, the simple answer is keep the air speed up and the aperture small without pinching the lips together.
Hope this gives some insight to simple ways of over coming the frustration!
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The term "take it one day at a time" doesn't sound like it would help and a bit cliche', but it's true. Each day is a new practice session for every trumpeter! Some players let the feeling of being overwhelmed and frustrated get to the boiling point. So all they focus on IS the frustration and they stop looking for the solution.
If this sounds like you, I suggest taking a step back and allow yourself to forget about the frustrating problem... start looking for a simple answer. Most problems only get larger or stay in our paths because we try to find overly complicated solutions. Break down in your mind the movements that should be in the action and the movements that should not! Such as - articulation. Your tongue should be moving in a Dah - Gah pattern for double tonguing... if when you're playing, your tongue feels as though it's in a different position from when you're speaking it, make it feel the same. With range, the simple answer is keep the air speed up and the aperture small without pinching the lips together.
Hope this gives some insight to simple ways of over coming the frustration!
Follow Me On Twitter
Visit My Website
Monday, August 17, 2009
Trumpet High Note Observations!
Take a good look at this video from the early 80's of Jon Faddis playing trumpet. There are really great shots of Jon straight on when he's playing in all registers of the trumpet. Amazing to watch how closely his lips are set, that he sets off center, and that he doesn't have to strain facially in any dramatic way to get in to the upper register with authority and power.
I've learned by observing our hero's playing trumpet high notes up close, many of the mystery's can be cleared up.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Online Cornet Lessons For Beginners
Are you starting band for the very first time this year?
Do you want to avoid most of the problems that other cornet and trumpet players almost certainly run in to? What if you can avoid those problems EASILY just by understanding a few simple techniques?
If this is you, take your first cornet lesson FREE!
Visit: FREE LESSON
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Visit My Website
Do you want to avoid most of the problems that other cornet and trumpet players almost certainly run in to? What if you can avoid those problems EASILY just by understanding a few simple techniques?
If this is you, take your first cornet lesson FREE!
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Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Trumpet
If you are a follower or a reader of this blog, you know that this is dedicated to all things trumpet... trumpet playing, trumpet lessons, trumpet high notes, trumpet players, and trumpet hero's!
Please visit Brass Player Solution for information that will improve your trumpet playing! "Secrets to Efficient Brass Playing" can help trumpeters understand how the chops work, why theirs aren't working, and how to make relatively quick improvements without "changing" your embouchure drastically.
If you're a parent of a beginning trumpet or cornet player and would like a FREE LESSON that will get things kicked off in right direction, please click the link above.
There will be future posts on trumpet rentals, and the best solution to entering trumpet playing without major expense.
Please visit Brass Player Solution for information that will improve your trumpet playing! "Secrets to Efficient Brass Playing" can help trumpeters understand how the chops work, why theirs aren't working, and how to make relatively quick improvements without "changing" your embouchure drastically.
If you're a parent of a beginning trumpet or cornet player and would like a FREE LESSON that will get things kicked off in right direction, please click the link above.
There will be future posts on trumpet rentals, and the best solution to entering trumpet playing without major expense.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Trumpet Lessons - Beginner Through Advanced!
If you know of someone who is just starting to play trumpet, and would like to have a first lesson for free, I have shot a 15 minute video that covers everything from lip buzzing, mouthpiece buzzing, playing Low C, Low D, and Low E... I also discuss care of the horn and a basic overview of the instrument.
Please send the beginners to Brass Player Solution
Please send the beginners to Brass Player Solution
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Trumpet - Lessons in Etiquette!
As a professional trumpet player, educator, and self published author of "Secrets to Efficient Brass Playing," I have been very fortunate that the "critical crowd" has been far and few between. But what strikes me as interesting is that the truly great players never seem to brag, talk about, or have to put down other players. The ones that are busy putting down others are the ones who seem to have the least amount of talent, skill or honor to defend.
One such comment posted to one of my recent youtube videos was extremely condescending, negative, and just down right snide. My first instinct was to get angry, but then I remembered the biggest lesson that Maynard Ferguson taught me while touring with him. And that is that too many players that wish they were are too busy to improve because they are wrapped up in criticizing others... that statement alone set my heart at ease. So I got the best revenge that I could - by ignoring this comment, deleting the post, and blocking the user.
Trumpet players in general tend to compete with each other to the bitter end. I don't see this a lot with other instrument players or groups of instrumentalists. Perhaps that's why they call the trumpet players the Neanderthals of the musical world. Once a player ascends to feeling comfortable in his or her own musical skin, this feeling of inadequacy tends to fade away like a bad memory.
My best advice to aspiring trumpet players out there - don't buy in to the negativity, and if you're attacked by one of those typical "lunk heads" remember what Maynard said!!! A player that wishes they were will spend more time attacking than improving!
Check out Brass Player Solution for more helpful insight and tips!
Keith Fiala / Anna Romano
One such comment posted to one of my recent youtube videos was extremely condescending, negative, and just down right snide. My first instinct was to get angry, but then I remembered the biggest lesson that Maynard Ferguson taught me while touring with him. And that is that too many players that wish they were are too busy to improve because they are wrapped up in criticizing others... that statement alone set my heart at ease. So I got the best revenge that I could - by ignoring this comment, deleting the post, and blocking the user.
Trumpet players in general tend to compete with each other to the bitter end. I don't see this a lot with other instrument players or groups of instrumentalists. Perhaps that's why they call the trumpet players the Neanderthals of the musical world. Once a player ascends to feeling comfortable in his or her own musical skin, this feeling of inadequacy tends to fade away like a bad memory.
My best advice to aspiring trumpet players out there - don't buy in to the negativity, and if you're attacked by one of those typical "lunk heads" remember what Maynard said!!! A player that wishes they were will spend more time attacking than improving!
Check out Brass Player Solution for more helpful insight and tips!
Keith Fiala / Anna Romano
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Friday, July 31, 2009
Trumpeter And Warming Up!
A trumpeter is usually taught early on certain passages and routines for warming up, but is rarely told why it's good to warm up with this that or the other.
Much like an athlete, it's important for a trumpeter to warm up to prevent tension, set good air usage, help the fingers and tongue become flexible, and get everything to function optimally. Unfortunately, many warm ups cause more tension and strain than what they prevent. Improperly doing lip slurs, multiple octave scales, and other warm up activities, can cause more than what they cure.
My personal warm up consists of SOFT playing for several minutes (up to an hour) with my lips set closely together and using the corners in an inward kissing type motion. This prevents me from pulling the lips back in a smile formation - which causes the lips to thin and increase muscle tension vs. using air. My goal is to get the lips to buzz freely close together by using the air stream and holding the lips in the same position. Soft notes and high notes are very closely related!
If you'd like more information, please contact me at Brass Player Solution! I offer a course called "Back To Basics" for trumpeters! 4 weeks of 30 minute videos, and as an added bonus, a Q&A session each week scheduled to fit your scheduling needs.
Keith Fiala
Much like an athlete, it's important for a trumpeter to warm up to prevent tension, set good air usage, help the fingers and tongue become flexible, and get everything to function optimally. Unfortunately, many warm ups cause more tension and strain than what they prevent. Improperly doing lip slurs, multiple octave scales, and other warm up activities, can cause more than what they cure.
My personal warm up consists of SOFT playing for several minutes (up to an hour) with my lips set closely together and using the corners in an inward kissing type motion. This prevents me from pulling the lips back in a smile formation - which causes the lips to thin and increase muscle tension vs. using air. My goal is to get the lips to buzz freely close together by using the air stream and holding the lips in the same position. Soft notes and high notes are very closely related!
If you'd like more information, please contact me at Brass Player Solution! I offer a course called "Back To Basics" for trumpeters! 4 weeks of 30 minute videos, and as an added bonus, a Q&A session each week scheduled to fit your scheduling needs.
Keith Fiala
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Trumpet - A How To Guide!
If you're looking for a good book that won't use extensive terms that are complicated to understand and you truly want to improve your trumpet playing, then check out "Secrets To Efficient Brass Playing."
I am currently developing a course that I'm calling "Back To Basics" that will help simplify what many have WAY over complicated in the trumpet playing world!
It is my belief that people tend to over complicate things for various reasons... trumpet playing / trumpet teaching is no exception. Whether they are doing it due to a lack of knowing how to communicate instructions clearly, trying to make themselves feel more intelligent than what the craft really calls for, or they themselves don't understand and therefore they're creating confusion to hide their ignorance, it's not really clear to me as to why things have to have so much clouded puff around them.
Trumpet playing is basically this - an instrument that amplifies the action of lips being vibrated together by air passing through them. Nothing more - nothing less. The rest of it is muscle memory, creating habits (good and bad), and practicing to memorize proper technique.
Where does natural ability fall in to that? Beyond the desire to want to... I personally don't see it.
Make your trumpet playing life easier - take a private lesson via webcam with me!
Contact me at Brass Player Solution
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Online Trumpet Lessons Taught By Keith Fiala
During our trip to Europe, one of the main topics of conversation was "what can we do to offer more". And the one thing that kept coming up was to buy a new computer and offer online lessons, as well as courses.
So - introducing Trumpet Lessons Online with Keith Fiala. If you really want to improve your range, endurance, tone, and your abilities, then take an online lesson with Keith.
Over the years, I have learned to take what was nearly impossible to me at one time and have learned to not only do it simply, but teach it in a simple manner as well.
Most tend to over-complicate explanations... making things sound much more scientific or advanced than what it really is. When you get right down to brass tax, all a high note consists of is fast air. Nothing less, nothing more. You make air move faster by compressing it and blowing it through a small hole we call an aperture.
If you would like more information on classes online, please contact Keith!
Brass Player Solution
So - introducing Trumpet Lessons Online with Keith Fiala. If you really want to improve your range, endurance, tone, and your abilities, then take an online lesson with Keith.
Over the years, I have learned to take what was nearly impossible to me at one time and have learned to not only do it simply, but teach it in a simple manner as well.
Most tend to over-complicate explanations... making things sound much more scientific or advanced than what it really is. When you get right down to brass tax, all a high note consists of is fast air. Nothing less, nothing more. You make air move faster by compressing it and blowing it through a small hole we call an aperture.
If you would like more information on classes online, please contact Keith!
Brass Player Solution
Monday, July 27, 2009
Trumpet High Notes Screaming in Europe!
Where was I -
I had to take a break from posting over the weekend as I traveled to Jackson Hole, Wyoming to perform at a wedding with Memphis Train Revue. The weather was really great and another nice jolt that prompted the question again - why am I still in Austin, TX.
As we traveled through Europe, it became more and more apparent to me that my online presence needed to be boosted up even more. We decided that we needed to buy a new Mac, now we've decided that teaching webcam lessons would be a great thing as well. All in all, Europe was a great kick in the pants for me. Before we left, I had gotten complacent... a little too comfortable with things as they are. Now after playing to appreciative audiences, hanging with great musicians and seeing the world through rested eyes - I was ready!
We pulled in to Rotterdam, Holland to play our final gig at the North Sea Jazz Festival. Randy Brecker was going to perform with us one more time and we were all pumped!
The show was amazing! Randy played (this goes without saying) amazing and got us to step up just one more notch! What a rush!!!
After the show, I was fortunate enough to run back in to Frank Greene, and Terrell Stafford who had performed earlier with Village Vanguard! What great guys to hang out with!!!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Trumpet in Lucern, Switzerland!
We were only able to spend one night in Grindelwald - which was sad to say the least, but we are now heading in to 2 days off in Lucern. Neither of us have ever been, but we hear that it's gorgeous!!!
Upon first arriving, each new place feels overwhelming... not from the hustle and bustle of traffic or people going by, but more from all the sites and sounds to take in at once. Lucern is certainly no exception! Once settled in to the hotel, we decided to put on our walking shoes again and start hiking... we were literally just a block away from the river and the bridge that separates the town. On the other side of the river was a shopping area... outdoor mall European style! Just beyond that was neighborhoods... so we could see things through the eyes of the locals and not just another pair of American tourists.
We stumbled upon a music store nestled in the heart of the shopping area - as Anna was still on a good running shoe quest. All the shoes that she liked were nearly twice what we could get them for at home... all the ones on sale that she liked were "near" her size but not quite. We stopped in to the music store to investigate this horn - upon closer inspection and speaking to one of the shop keep's, the horn is Swiss made... called Spiri. Interestingly enough, it has a detachable bell, lead-pipe, and tuning slide that can all be purchased. Different bell flares, smaller lead pipes, and a "D" style tuning slide could all be purchased in addition to the horn as it comes from the factory. I was invited to play the horn - but being without my mouthpiece, I opted to wait until tomorrow morning...
As we walked, we noticed that no one seemed to be stressed, in a hurry, pissed off, etc. It was really nice to be in a relaxed environment and still be in a city.
Once again, pictures just do NO JUSTICE to the place itself, but we have experienced some amazing sites! One of the city's monuments is a lion that has been carved into the face of a rock wall that was once a gravel pit by an Italian artist that was commissioned by Lucerne to carve out this life like sculpture. If you look closely, you can see the broken spear in the lion's side!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
TJO Takes Some Time Off In Grindelwald, Switzerland!
If ever there was a place that would look like it was home to knomes, Hansel & Grettel, smurfs, any mythical story book type village, it would have to be Grindelwald, Switzerland. This little mountain village is every bit straight out of a fantasy! We couldn't believe our eyes!
The pictures posted here do this adorable place no justice... it was just an amazing experience to pull up into this fantasy land... I have always been partial to mountains and small mountain settlements. This was my dream come true!
I'll be posting more photos in the coming days!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Trumpet High Note Lessons Online Decision Made!
Visit Brass Player Solution
After struggling a second day with my old laptop, we made the corporate decision that we were going to HAVE to get a new computer. I'd been around enough folks with Mac's that we pretty much knew that it would be a Macbook Pro - as our iPhone was the only device that wasn't having any trouble loading, working, connecting, etc. We would also be able to offer online trumpet lessons via the built in webcam which was a goal for many months!
We were gearing up for our second day / performance in Montreux, but are going to start the day off at the castle right on Lake Geneva! This was a boat cruise on the lake and was an AMAZING way to pull up to the Castle!! Check out the pix - you can feel the spirits of the past era's that had been there centuries before!
After our tour of the castle, it was back to town so we could grab some lunch before our performance at the Jazz Festival...
Once again the crowd was very appreciative, and loved the band! It's really great having the opportunity to perform with musicians that are skilled and be appreciated as a group by people who are there giving back as much as they are receiving!
After the performance, we went back to the hotel room to change clothes, drop off the horn and head back down to the festival so we could gather some shirts, etc. We also got some good shots of the statue of Freddie Mercury right on the shore of Lake Geneva. He apparently loved Montreux... we can see why!
After struggling a second day with my old laptop, we made the corporate decision that we were going to HAVE to get a new computer. I'd been around enough folks with Mac's that we pretty much knew that it would be a Macbook Pro - as our iPhone was the only device that wasn't having any trouble loading, working, connecting, etc. We would also be able to offer online trumpet lessons via the built in webcam which was a goal for many months!
We were gearing up for our second day / performance in Montreux, but are going to start the day off at the castle right on Lake Geneva! This was a boat cruise on the lake and was an AMAZING way to pull up to the Castle!! Check out the pix - you can feel the spirits of the past era's that had been there centuries before!
After our tour of the castle, it was back to town so we could grab some lunch before our performance at the Jazz Festival...
Once again the crowd was very appreciative, and loved the band! It's really great having the opportunity to perform with musicians that are skilled and be appreciated as a group by people who are there giving back as much as they are receiving!
After the performance, we went back to the hotel room to change clothes, drop off the horn and head back down to the festival so we could gather some shirts, etc. We also got some good shots of the statue of Freddie Mercury right on the shore of Lake Geneva. He apparently loved Montreux... we can see why!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Montreux Jazz Festival - Here We Come!
We were up at 7:15 in the morning to get packed, eat breakfast and head to the bus by 9am.
On the ride to Montreux, we stopped at a truck stop along the way and were able to get out and literally smell the roses! In the middle of the mountains along the highway! Just beautiful! And I can't really remember ever saying that about a truck stop!
We stopped in Lausanne, Switzerland for lunch. This was a cute little lake shore town along Lake Geneva. Anna and I stopped in to a place that one of the locals we ran in to recommended for just a salad. Still VERY expensive... but the coolest toilets I've ever seen! Not to be disgusting, but when you stand up this little mechanical arm comes out, makes the lid spin around as it wipes the lid!
We have a 4:30pm hit time in Montreux and no real time to warm up properly... so, it's back to hurry and pray!
Great show over all! Very hot under the black tarp tent, but the crowd was fantastic! Fun to see lots of people from all over the world come together to enjoy music!
We got back to the hotel with enough time to check our email on the computer and hang out for a minute before heading back to the festival to walk a bit. My 5 year old laptop is dying a slow painful death and is even more frustrating now because it won't connect to the internet more than half the time. My iPhone does a much better job! A Macbook Pro is in our future!!! We will then start offering trumpet lessons online!
Friday, July 17, 2009
TJO & Trumpet High Notes in Geneva, Switzerland!
We did a 4 hour drive from Lyon, France to Geneva, Switzerland to play for the 4th of July celebration that was being thrown at the American Consulate!
The weather was a bit warm (but nothing like Texas) and we were greeted by friendly delegates from all over the world!
The band hadn't played since Friday (6/26/09) before we had left for Europe, but played well! The Delegates and invited guests were very receptive and enjoyed the show!
After leaving the stage, we literally had to jump back on the bus and head to the Boujulais Wine & Jazz Festival where Band of the West opened for us! This was a great band from Lyon, France that played very well together!
This was great to be able to hang out with Band of the West after the performances... music is amazing!
After the show, we headed back to our room in Lyon at the Hotel Ibis... where a cold shower and sleep was much needed. We're to leave at 8:15 the next morning to go to Montreux, Switzerland! The part of the trip I've been really looking forward to!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Trumpet High Notes For the Delegates!
We woke up at 7am to be dressed, packed, and ready for a L O N G bus ride to Lyon! While driving through Paris, one of our own delegates realized that he'd left items of value and importance in the hotel room safe. So, he and Colin had to take the subway train back to the hotel. We had to stop and wait at the "Bercy" stop along the subway route to wait.
2 hours behind schedule, we arrived at our hotel in Lyon at 5:40pm - sound check was scheduled for 6:30 and we're still 30 minutes away from Jazz A'Vienne.
As we're driving to the gig, Colin received a call saying that our first performance in Europe had been canceled due to a heavy thunderstorm. So, we adjourned to a Pizzeria for dinner before we were to attend the Roy Hargrove Big Band performance in the Roman Amphitheater ruins. What an incredible venue!!!!
To my delight, I found out that Frank Greene was playing lead trumpet and Greg Gisbert playing 2nd! What a treat to hear them!!!! And Roy sounded amazing as well.
Disappointed that we couldn't perform, but satisfied from hearing a great performance, we all loaded back on the bus to return to Lyon and head to Geneva, Switzerland in the morning to play for the 4th of July celebration at the American Consulate!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Last Day In Paris - Jazz Jam!
Wednesday July 1, 2009
After eating breakfast at the hotel, we met up with Sparky and Tim to visit the Louvre and other historic destinations. I was at the Louvre in 1985 with my High School Jazz band on a trip to Europe, but didn't remember much and had since lost most of the pictures taken... although the French people were much friendlier this go-round, I still am not crazy about Paris. It's another big city similar to New York / L.A. in many respects, but certainly worth a visit if you've never been.
Seeing amazing works of art from centuries past, eating lunch at the cafeteria and checking out the gift shop, Anna and I decided to part ways with Tim and Sparky so we could walk to Notre Dame. This was easily a 3 mile hike, but well worth it. We wound around the old streets and stayed off the main roads... finally feeling like we were in Europe and not N.Y.!
We stopped off at a street cafe (one of the thousands) for a beer and a slice of tort so we could officially use the restrooms. There is a charge if you are not a customer... well worth the very needed break!
We decided after giving our feet a break and getting a little bit more energy that we should venture in to Notre Dame! There was a service under way with a female Cantor with an angelic voice! VERY haunting - yet beautiful! We were captivated!
Since the Sgt. Recruiter area was somewhat familiar, we decided to walk back down that way to window shop a bit. Anna found a Parisian designer store with a purse that even I have to admit was way cool! The owner of the shop spoke some English and was very friendly... offered advice on where to eat that wasn't going to break us nor poison us with dirty bathwater like the previous night!
Upon catching the last train back to our hotel, we ran in to a group from Temple Jazz Orchestra and they told me about a jazz jam just around the corner... so I hurried and grabbed my horn! Tim Cates, Sparky Thomason, Dave Wild, Ben Irom, Vince Bryce and myself all got a chance to jam with the locals at a place called "The Cave". A cool little underground dive!!! What a treat!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Days Without A Show To Go!
Tuesday - 6/30/2009
Our first chance to sleep in since... man, who knows how long it's been!
As Anna was in the shower, I decided to warm up a bit. My chops are still swollen and a bit battered from the heavy week previously, but now I'm starting to get a little concerned about not getting enough playing time in. That old concern that I think each player has enter in their minds when they tour and gigs are days between. I am NOT one of those players that can go without touching the horn for a few days!
We had slept too long to make the hotel breakfast, so we decided to walk to the McDonald's to check email ONLY!!! Then off to a local cafe near the hotel for crepes. They weren't what we were hoping for, but we were sitting in a Paris cafe drinking a cappuccino and eating crepes.
We caught the M13 train to Auiliedes station, and picked up the "C" train to Versailles to see the palace!
We arrived at Versailles a little after 1pm, so we bought 2 passes at 10 Euro each. Audio walking tour of the Daughters Apartments and the Kings quarters. Amazing sights, but you could feel the power and presence within the palace!
We left the palace at 5pm and jumped on a train heading to a station that would put us right near Notre Dame as we were to meet the rest of TJO for dinner at a place called Sergent Recruiter. The trains are not air conditioned and we were head long in to rush hour time in Paris - it was hot! Long about the "Javel" stop, we noticed that the train was sitting for an extremely long period of time... the announcements were only in French, so understanding was not happening! As our time was running short, we opted to get off the train and hail a taxi... we were at least 6 kilometers from Notre Dame and had to meet the group! Our meet time was 6:30 and it was well past that!
Finally making it after attempting to hail many taxi's, we met up with everyone and had an okay dinner... very expensive and only so-so on the quality. The salad was great because they brought fresh veggies in a basket so you can make your own... the soup tasted like dirty bathwater and the main course was... hmmm.
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