I’m a late starter. I’ve been playing guitar and drums all my life, but began with the trumpet at age 62. I took about 4 months of lessons and then played for a year with a community band but had to quit because of work demands / scheduling conflicts. I put the instrument down for about 2 years and just 2 months ago picked it up again to play in a different community band. This time my fellow band members are mostly college age and have been playing since elementary school; accordingly the music is much more challenging. A lot of Leonard Bernstein etc. My immediate goal is to quickly get up to speed so that I do not lag behind everyone else. Sight reading at speed is challenging enough, but my skill level is taking its sweet time getting there. That is why I am here, to learn as much as I can to hasten my progress and mastery without development of bad habits or risking proper development of my embouchure. Any guidance will be greatly appreciated.
I'm 56 and a fresh student and this video really inspired me. Someone told me I was too old to start on the trumpet and that is exactly the answer I needed to proof him wrong.
Professor Mayes, I last played the trumpet when I was 15 having started at 10. Now, a 68 year old retiree, I restarted playing and studying with a former student of Timofey Dokshizer in Moscow. I am blown away that he is telling me EXACTLY what you have but without some explanations and examples. Carmine Caruso discusses having one's lips ride the air. I now have a better grasp of that idea. Thanks so very much.
Hi Walter, this is wonderful to hear. Playing the trumpet is probably the only instrument which is so reflective of life. We have good times, bad times, battles, frustrations, moments of disbelief (good and bad!) and joy. No one will ever totally work it out so enjoying every moment of the journey is so important. Wynton Marsalis once told me to embrace every emotion in life because they often don't last too long. Same with the trumpet. We all interpret advice through our own lens and will all arrive in a different place with the same piece of information. Therefore, experimentation is the most important tool to employ in our practice because it changes our lens slightly and gives us a different perspective and experience. Conventional ideas obstruct 99% of trumpet players. "Good ideas" do the same. I've had a tough few years which has meant I haven't been able to produce videos but I'm hoping to start again soon and I'll talk about experimentation then. All best, TP
Your story is amazing sir. Very inspiring. I just played my first chromatic scale in my thirties, i have always loved trumpet and after traveling to new Orleans and seeing the live jazz bands i had to play trumpet myself. Thanks for these videos.
I discovered your channel this weekend. I am a middle-aged amateur trumpeter who never gave up the trumpet after a lot of playing in high school. Back then I had a lot of range and endurance because I was young and played a lot. Now, neither is true, but I still have a passion for playing and I play regularly with a local community group. I'm very intrigued by your lessons and techniques and how they may help me be a better and stronger player. I'm starting to work on your first Sigh exercise today ! Thank-you for your inspirational story and sharing your methods with us.
Thanks for getting in touch. Enjoy playing but you also have to enjoy learning. The key is to take your time and not expect too much too soon. Keep me posted on your progress and please feel free to ask questions! TP
I'm 82 years old and just ordered a trumpet from India. I played the trumpet in fifth grade but was never taught how to really play. I like your approach and want to learn more.
Great video. I just started to practice with trumpet. I know a little late in life but I believe that it is never too late. I thank you for sharing you personal experience. I feel encourage to continue, thanks.
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this fascinating video. At 66 years old, my lockdown goals are to free up my trumpet technique in order to perform the wide range of music styles that I have always been involved in; without the continual frustration caused by lack of endurance and technique. My personal bootcamp involves some TCE, leadpipe playing and studying Maggio with a younger friend of mine, who is a fine player. However your explanation and demonstration fits the bill for my ambitions.
Hello Ruari. There are so many systems and methods and so much advice it's difficult to know where to start. I tried most of them with varying degrees of success but my whole approach changed when I began to ask why! Question everything. When you do you tend to find out how much someone really knows. Don't invest your time in something which you know little about or don't truly believe in. I have guiding principles which are: 1. Sigh 2. Top lip as relaxed as possible 3. Air pressure not air flow If I hear about a new system or technique and it fits with my guiding principles I will explore or experiment with it. If it doesn't I will leave it. You don't have to believe in the same things as me but adopt a similar approach and you'll save yourself a lot of time and anguish! Thanks for following and taking the time to leave me a comment. It's been a tough year for everyone and a tough couple of years for me personally but I'm now planning my next video and hope to really expand The Trumpet Prof this year. All best, TP
@@TheTrumpetProf Hi TP, first I'm sorry to hear you've had a tough time for a couple of years and delighted that you are coming through on the other side. I am so excited by your teaching principles and have made incremental improvements to my trumpet playing over an incredibly short space of time, compared to decades of study with a number of fine professionals. In terms of flow - does the analogy of a tractor tyre = low brass and a racing bike tyre = high brass make sense? High volume + low pressure versus low volume + high pressure. Kind regards to you.
Enhorabuena maestro, es todo un ejemplo a seguir como lo ha hecho. Esa boquilla que usa cuál es por favor¡. Voy a seguirlo porque me parece genial sus experiencias y enseñanzas. Gracias ¡
Hi Paul.. First - THANKS! I have been playing the trumpet 877 days and I am 55 years old and you are INSPIRING - so thank you very much for all your help. I have watched hundreds of guys on You tube and none have been as inspiring as you. Technical question: I have only had one trumpet lesson in my life. My teacher said he did not change his mouth set up at all playing.. it was all in the air. At the time I was thinking "hang on.. what about the corners of the aperture.. the tongue position.. tu versus sist versus e etc.. / tongue forward.. jaw position .. " I am now starting to think maybe he was right after all.. So what would be your advice on tongue position? How important its anchored etc.. Technical question.. when playing if I take a break and play a few notes on a 1 meter long steel pipe with mouth piece inserted then go back to the trumpet I can notice a better core to my sound - I notice this is more effective than if I just go to lead pipe. Are you a lead pipe advocate? Thanks for your help Steve PS watched the bow and arrow video on the bus.. can't wait to try when I get home tonight!
Hi Steve, thanks for your kind words and for giving me such positive and inspiring feedback. As I mentioned briefly in the video there are 12 physical components that I think about and consider when building a system and because we are all so different the most efficient system design for one player will be completely different to another, and I really mean completely different!. My initial interest is in setting potential as high as possible and that is determined by the shape and size of the players physical 12. So it could be that your teacher didn't change his mouth set up but that doesn't mean you shouldn't. It's all about balancing your components through knowledge, sensation, experimentation and exploration and that's what this channel is all about. I'll do a video on tongue position very soon. For some configurations the tongue can become the dominant way to control pitch, for others (like me) it is active but not close to being my primary control component. Interesting with the steel pipe. If it works for you then keep going with it. Personally my routine doesn't involve any mouthpiece / lead pipe / lip buzzing etc at all. I prefer only to work with the trumpet . . . . . . . but that's not to say I wouldn't advise others with a different config' to do it!! All best, TP
Yes this is inspirational Paul. Now I've restarted playing at 76 my objectives are time limited. Just to play fairly tunefully not over complicated music not at very high register.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. It is wonderful to have people like you on this planet. Can you please share your thoughts about nervousness in an audition, contest, orchestra solo. My problem is I am very nervous in an audition for a free trumpet chair and I am not playing at my full value. Thank in advance. 🙏🤗
Hi Mike, this is a very important topic and one I plan to make a video about. My views on this are very much like trumpet playing. There are very basic techniques which can help everyone (like the videos on this channel) but to become the best you can be requires a personal approach and an almost bespoke technique. Overcoming or channeling nervous energy is a very personal thing and there are no quick fixes that will give immediate results. Start with your breathing and try to slow it down several hours before your event. Walk slowly, eat slowly, drink slowly do everything slowly. Don't eat or drink anything that will increase your heart rate unnecessarily (like caffeine etc). Get a sip straw (attached to small cartons of drinks) and exhale through it WITHOUT actually getting involved. So let the added resistance slow down the air flow. Using the straw allows you to remain relaxed and is different to simply breathing slowly. Understanding how you play the trumpet is a big part of it to. It allows you to focus on the things that will allow you to get the job done. I don't totally agree with the whole paralysis by analysis thing. I'll do a video soon. Hope that helps a little.. TP
Hello Mr. Mayes at first big respect and my appreciation to your video. Exactly the same happened to me 100%. and I went through all this you told.100%... but I Solved it. I am now the player I always wanted to be with range flexibility and all what you need to have.. and yes you have to think out-of-the-box... much more further. And at least I’d like to tell you that I like your style. You show a great humanity,love to what you say and do. This is 100% Noticeable throu your Videos... Maybe I got the chance to meet you personally one time. All the best and keep on having fun on what you do...
I am 57 years of age. Started playing the trumpet at aged 13 and had to pack it in at 25 as I couldn't get anything above G on the stave. Fast forward to being 54 and I take up the tenor sax following by baritone and soprano sax and have reached a decent standard and am in a couple of bands. I always wondered what I did wrong in my trumpet playing years and so have decided to have one final throw at the dice to see if I can make it as a trumpet player...and have bought a secondhand trumpet....here goes!!!.
Hi just recently discovered your You Tube channel I must say great ideas to work on the" sigh" especially is it that easy however ? Thank you for your videos Anthony
Hi Anthony, thanks for your comment. No it is not that easy! Very few things are easy to implement when you have already established your way of doing things but that's more because it takes time and patience. The sigh is more about delivering the air from the chest so you keep your face more relaxed. Blowing from the lips engages facial muscles that aren't necessarily needed to play so it's important to deliver your air in a way which allows you to play efficiently. Good luck. TP
Caro TP, vorrei entrare in contatto con te per delle lezioni, anche via Skype visto che abito in Italia. Ma voglio sfidare me stesso per dei progressi che nella mia ho fatto sempre fatica ad ottenere. Spero presto in una tua risposta. Grazie infinite è un piacere ascoltare le tue lezioni. Claudio
Hi Paul, I'm very glad to meet your channel, I've been looking for the best advice for trumpet and I think I finally found it. I have a question for you and I'm gonna start describing me first, I'm a former trumpet player, I played when I was a teen, during my 13, 14 and 15. I started playing the euphonium, but my dream was always to play the trumpet, but teachers always telling me my lower lip was too thick for the trumpet mouthpiece and when they tried me with the euphonium, I really did well. But, finally I did it and I finished those ages playing trumpet. I hadn't played for years until my brother gave me a trumpet for my birthday, so eventually I was playing, just to remember that time. Now, due to Covid, I started seeking the net and I found your channel and my desire to play my trumpet again. My question is, I'm now 36 and I'd like to know how possible is for me to play trumpet as a professional? Concerning my age... I'm gonna watch all your videos and follow your tips and of course, recommend your channel to friends.. Thank you for your time and I'll wait for your answer! Victor Pinillos
Hi Victor. There is no age limit on becoming a professional player. If you're good enough, you have the potential to work as a trumpet player. Being presented with opportunities is something different but you have to start with ability. The size of the lower lip is not a factor in playing the trumpet well. Don't be in a hurry and don't try to cut corners. I will be posting again very soon. TP
This series is outstanding... thank you. For a future video, I wonder whether the community would find it useful for you to talk about grip. So many schools of thought... how do you think about this? I've done a decent job, I think, of removing tension from my grip... at least at the beginning of each section. If the section is long enough, I'll find myself ending with the left palm down and the right palm up, bent back at the wrist. Not sure what's going on there, nor how to identify and eliminate the root cause. I'll bet some thoughtful advice on fundamental grip mechanics would help.
Hi and thank you. It's an important aspect of playing and one which causes me the most difficulties so I have plenty of useful suggestions. Don't know if you've seen my facebook page but I plan to put some much shorter videos and video responses to these lessons out on it so consider visiting. TP
How to play the shofar with big lips??? Cant get the vibration to come out the front of my mouth, only on the sides. Playing the shofar, both with and without a trumpet mouthpiece.
I am on a comeback after more than 40 years since playing, so it has been back to basics. but with resources like yours, progress has been steady and I would need more reading proficiency to continue improving. What do you recommend. I struggle with reading, because I never learned it properly and was very basic. I am retired and live in Puerto Rico. Thank you, Miguel
Hi Miguel. I would suggest finding a book of popular tunes to play through and practice. It is better to play tunes that are familiar so you'll know if you are getting it right or wrong! You will improve your reading much quicker that way. Of course scale practice will also help. The main thing is to enjoy playing and give yourself time to learn new things. TP
I was an All-Region and All-Area trumpet player in the late 70's. I have not really played since. Now I have bought a new one, but I have no teeth (long story). I can't even seem to make much of a sound at all. I was wondering if you had any advice for how to get started like a beginner and learn to make a decent sound???
What a great channel. Back when I was 21 my lips were badly cut in a car accident, I lost my 2 of my front 4 upper teeth, and had other facial injuries. As a result there is scar tissue in both upper an lower lips that have really affected my trumpet playing. Plus the fact that I now had a bridge, it was all different. It's been 40 years, and now I even have a replacement bridge, but with implants, so it is solid. Needless to say, I want to rebuild my embouchure and play well again. I was thinking that maybe I should start with the Euphonium as a way to exercise my lips in a way to smooth out or reduce the scars. Is that something you would recommend as a first step?
Paul I'm so sorry I missed this comment and didn't reply. It sounds like an intelligent approach but I would advise going straight on with the trumpet. You may have already started the euph' in which case i would be interested to hear how you are getting on. Building strength in the lips is not necessary to play the trumpet really well. I have been trying for years to undo the process of building and focus more on positioning. Let me know where you are with it all and I will try to help you more. prof@thetrumpetprof.com TP
Just came across this video & subscribed IMMEDIATELY. Your bio is VERY impressive and your analytical manner in logically laying out your teaching really resonates with me, especially about knowledge of physics as it applies to trumpet pedagogy. My questions are: as you ascend into the upper register: 1) Is your air amount going into the horn decreasing and 2) Is more mouthpiece pressure imparted to the lower lip to free pressure on the upper lip? And is that formula (air and mouthpiece placement/pressure reversed in the middle & lower register?
Thank you Tyr. Yes as I ascend air amount into the trumpet is decreasing as air pressure increases. Mouthpiece pressure is an interesting topic and you may be surprised to know I actually use it to ascend. I don't transfer it on to the lower lip, it is equal on both. If the lips are relaxed it is not harmful. Of course the rest of my engine is set up to allow the mouthpiece pressure I use to be effective. It will only work with a particular type of playing system. Thanks for your questions. TP
I'm 59 years old, an avid recreational/semi-pro player. I used to have way exceptional upper-register chops, big fat lead player sound, lots of sizzle. No, I'm not inquiring about how to get my upper register back (I fear it's long gone--I've tried everything to get it back, to no avail.) Actually, I'm trying to figure out how to play SOFTER, mostly for church gigs. I just can't seem to play anything north of D or E without blowing fortissimo, especially if it involves tonguing (staccato). If it's slurred, I'm okay. If I back off to p or even mf, I can't produce a sound. What's wrong with me?!!!
Could be a few reasons but I'm guessing your lips are too compressed. Practice from low to high trying to turn silent air into sound. Start at low C. White noise first and gently accelerate the air speed until the note appears. Let the process happen organically Then onto D , E , F etc If you get instant sound and no silent air try setting your further apart. Hope that helps. TP
Hi prof I've been contemplating a monette mouthpiece for a while. Ive been playing trumpet floor a long time and still play everyday. Mostly self taught. I had some early lessons though. Would you recommend a monette mouthpiece?
I can feel my upper lip relaxing, I keep a very low tongue position below my bottom teeth will my tonguing gets its dynamics from the “ push” sensation? ( less tonguing more push?)
I appreciate all that you do for trumpet players seeking to improve their playing, Can you help me with the following question: My equipment: • Yamaha Xeno Cornet Bb • Bremner ssssshhhh Mute When I descend from second line G with the mute in, I can play two octaves fairly easily and close to being in tune, however without the mute, I struggle to get the pedal C to play anywhere near the concert Bb. It seems to be close to a full tone lower along with the other lower fingerings. Is this because I have been playing too much with the mute in, or is this the natural frequency of the pedal C on this instrument? I hope you can answer my question. Regards John Robinson
On another note Paul, which brand of Flugel horn is recommended for someone starting off, looking for the warmest sound from the minimum of outlay. Brands looked at are Thomann 600, Odyssey, Jupiter, John Packer etc.... and wow well done on the achievement of playing on Sky Fall! Terrific!
Hi. I'm a bit out of touch with flugelhorns I'm afraid. Had the same one for 25 years! My friends at Parkers brass shop in London could advise you if you drop them an email. Hope that helps. www.philparker.biz/
Thanks for the video and channel. One question that arose from seeing your students towards the end of the video. I noticed their mouthpiece placement differed noticeably especially horizontally. I wondered if this is something you work on with them from the start. If so I’d be interested in seeing how you go about finding that placement. (I was unsure whether this belonged here or trumpet takeaway). Thanks and look forward to seeing more videos.
Hi Anthony thanks for your question and well spotted! Yes the different placement positions are intentional and I will cover this in a video. I've moved players from playing in the centre to playing on the side (my own embouchure included) as the right placement is dependent on several personal factors. Thanks again. TP
having taken up playing in my latter years and playing most days I find that after about 30 minutes my lips start to get sore which affects my playing especially higher notes. I do try playing drop down pedal notes but still get the same problem.any advice?
Hi Anthony. As I'm sure you know it takes time to build strength and technique. Practice maybe 10 minutes per session allowing your lips time to rest. I haven't really shared specifically how to play high yet but the best advice is the advice which allows you to experiment and find your own way. Don't try to blow freely. By that I mean you need the air to be resisted at some point so you feel the air "back-up" and create some pressure. Create some white noise inside your mouth while you play. I will be posting again soon (after a very bad year for me) and am planning a website where you will be able to access much much more. TP
Dear Paul, thank you very much for sharing your knowledge. One question if you accept it from a beginner : is your drawing the engine itself or maybe just the upper part of the engine ?
Hi. I'm not sure I fully understand your question but my point in this video is that practice alone will only take you so far. Maybe it's far enough for what you want but the most common problem players will eventually face is getting the higher notes. My view is that common problems are a result of common techniques. If you want to avoid them you need to do something that is unconventional. For most this is difficult because by doing something unconventional you will always be told by the majority that you are doing it wrong! Let me know if you need any clarification or I've totally failed to answer your point! TP
Thank you for your answer. Watching the drawing, my suggestion was that, based on my short experience, the "engine" would possibly include a lower part, all the way down to lower abdomen muscles, that is essential to air control. I just wanted to invite you to comment on that if you wanted to. Alexandre
Hi. Anyone can learn to play well at any time of life. Remember, you have the parts; just need to put them together the right way for you. If it was as easy as is often made out everyone would be doing it. But the majority of players don't achieve the level of playing they really desire because they are following a conventional approach. This channel will help you. It will take time but there are no quick fixes if you want to play well. Good luck. TP
I don't know if you've ever heard of Robert Pichaureau which was a famous trumpet teacher who developped the same approche of focusing on build the roots of the sound first. You can read some info about his methodology here: la.trompette.free.fr/Faucher/introduction-en.htm It is witten by one of his former student that is continuing this way of teaching. All your saying is very meaningful, but I don't understand why you're saying that this is for advance players ? It should be for every trumpet player who want to play in a more efficient and more rewarding way, isn't it ?
Thanks, I'll check that out. All trumpet players are very welcome on this channel but lengthy explanations and deeper analysis can turn many players away especially those who are younger and just play for fun. My Trumpet Takeaway channel has similar techniques and always with an emphasis on playing efficiently, but is presented in a more simplistic way. Thank you for sharing your view. TP
Great amount of knowledge and information about trumpet playing. I hope that you continue posting these videos.
I’m a late starter. I’ve been playing guitar and drums all my life, but began with the trumpet at age 62. I took about 4 months of lessons and then played for a year with a community band but had to quit because of work demands / scheduling conflicts. I put the instrument down for about 2 years and just 2 months ago picked it up again to play in a different community band. This time my fellow band members are mostly college age and have been playing since elementary school; accordingly the music is much more challenging. A lot of Leonard Bernstein etc. My immediate goal is to quickly get up to speed so that I do not lag behind everyone else. Sight reading at speed is challenging enough, but my skill level is taking its sweet time getting there. That is why I am here, to learn as much as I can to hasten my progress and mastery without development of bad habits or risking proper development of my embouchure. Any guidance will be greatly appreciated.
Hi Paul
Absolute sensationell Trompete series. Looking forward to More.
Viele Grüße
Matt Walsh, Germany
Thanks Paul. Greatly appreciated.
Oh man, so excited that you are back! Looking forward to your future video tutorials.
I'm 56 and a fresh student and this video really inspired me. Someone told me I was too old to start on the trumpet and that is exactly the answer I needed to proof him wrong.
Never too old. It might take a bit longer but do it the right way and you'll be playing tunes in no time. TP
I discovered your channel this afternoon ( while relaxing after HS band camp) and I love your videos, particularly the Trumpet High Notes series
Great Stuff! Love the Arban exersises. Im still teaching and practicing them
Professor Mayes, I last played the trumpet when I was 15 having started at 10. Now, a 68 year old retiree, I restarted playing and studying with a former student of Timofey Dokshizer in Moscow. I am blown away that he is telling me EXACTLY what you have but without some explanations and examples. Carmine Caruso discusses having one's lips ride the air. I now have a better grasp of that idea. Thanks so very much.
Hi Walter, this is wonderful to hear. Playing the trumpet is probably the only instrument which is so reflective of life. We have good times, bad times, battles, frustrations, moments of disbelief (good and bad!) and joy. No one will ever totally work it out so enjoying every moment of the journey is so important. Wynton Marsalis once told me to embrace every emotion in life because they often don't last too long. Same with the trumpet.
We all interpret advice through our own lens and will all arrive in a different place with the same piece of information. Therefore, experimentation is the most important tool to employ in our practice because it changes our lens slightly and gives us a different perspective and experience.
Conventional ideas obstruct 99% of trumpet players. "Good ideas" do the same. I've had a tough few years which has meant I haven't been able to produce videos but I'm hoping to start again soon and I'll talk about experimentation then. All best, TP
Love your channel
Your story is amazing sir. Very inspiring. I just played my first chromatic scale in my thirties, i have always loved trumpet and after traveling to new Orleans and seeing the live jazz bands i had to play trumpet myself. Thanks for these videos.
It is a wonderful instrument and I hope one day I will also get to hear those bands in New Orleans! All best TP
I discovered your channel this weekend. I am a middle-aged amateur trumpeter who never gave up the trumpet after a lot of playing in high school. Back then I had a lot of range and endurance because I was young and played a lot. Now, neither is true, but I still have a passion for playing and I play regularly with a local community group. I'm very intrigued by your lessons and techniques and how they may help me be a better and stronger player. I'm starting to work on your first Sigh exercise today ! Thank-you for your inspirational story and sharing your methods with us.
Thanks for getting in touch. Enjoy playing but you also have to enjoy learning. The key is to take your time and not expect too much too soon. Keep me posted on your progress and please feel free to ask questions! TP
I'm 82 years old and just ordered a trumpet from India. I played the trumpet in fifth grade but was never taught how to really play. I like your approach and want to learn more.
Thank you Melvin. Drop me a line when it arrives. Best, TP
Paul, this is excellent thanks. I have learned so much here already.
Very great videos very inspiring. Ty
Great video. I just started to practice with trumpet. I know a little late in life but I believe that it is never too late. I thank you for sharing you personal experience. I feel encourage to continue, thanks.
I too would like to add the same note being a beginner at 50s and struggled for 10 years still not given up the hope
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this fascinating video. At 66 years old, my lockdown goals are to free up my trumpet technique in order to perform the wide range of music styles that I have always been involved in; without the continual frustration caused by lack of endurance and technique. My personal bootcamp involves some TCE, leadpipe playing and studying Maggio with a younger friend of mine, who is a fine player. However your explanation and demonstration fits the bill for my ambitions.
Hello Ruari. There are so many systems and methods and so much advice it's difficult to know where to start. I tried most of them with varying degrees of success but my whole approach changed when I began to ask why! Question everything. When you do you tend to find out how much someone really knows. Don't invest your time in something which you know little about or don't truly believe in. I have guiding principles which are:
1. Sigh
2. Top lip as relaxed as possible
3. Air pressure not air flow
If I hear about a new system or technique and it fits with my guiding principles I will explore or experiment with it. If it doesn't I will leave it.
You don't have to believe in the same things as me but adopt a similar approach and you'll save yourself a lot of time and anguish!
Thanks for following and taking the time to leave me a comment. It's been a tough year for everyone and a tough couple of years for me personally but I'm now planning my next video and hope to really expand The Trumpet Prof this year. All best, TP
@@TheTrumpetProf Hi TP, first I'm sorry to hear you've had a tough time for a couple of years and delighted that you are coming through on the other side. I am so excited by your teaching principles and have made incremental improvements to my trumpet playing over an incredibly short space of time, compared to decades of study with a number of fine professionals. In terms of flow - does the analogy of a tractor tyre = low brass and a racing bike tyre = high brass make sense? High volume + low pressure versus low volume + high pressure. Kind regards to you.
Totally agree! Thanks, will be a frequent listener
Great information and thank you for sharing your depth of knowledge.
Very clearly explained. Thanks for mking it look so easy. You have great talent and play beautifully. I’m from Buenos Aires
Looking forward to your future content!
Good teacher - good students
Beautiful and inspiring video. Thank you
Good Job Mr.Prof. Thank You very much.
Enhorabuena maestro, es todo un ejemplo a seguir como lo ha hecho. Esa boquilla que usa cuál es por favor¡. Voy a seguirlo porque me parece genial sus experiencias y enseñanzas. Gracias ¡
Thank you. I was using a Monette Prana B4S S2 82. Best wishes, TP
Hi Paul.. First - THANKS! I have been playing the trumpet 877 days and I am 55 years old and you are INSPIRING - so thank you very much for all your help. I have watched hundreds of guys on You tube and none have been as inspiring as you.
Technical question: I have only had one trumpet lesson in my life. My teacher said he did not change his mouth set up at all playing.. it was all in the air. At the time I was thinking "hang on.. what about the corners of the aperture.. the tongue position.. tu versus sist versus e etc.. / tongue forward.. jaw position .. " I am now starting to think maybe he was right after all.. So what would be your advice on tongue position? How important its anchored etc..
Technical question.. when playing if I take a break and play a few notes on a 1 meter long steel pipe with mouth piece inserted then go back to the trumpet I can notice a better core to my sound - I notice this is more effective than if I just go to lead pipe. Are you a lead pipe advocate? Thanks for your help Steve
PS watched the bow and arrow video on the bus.. can't wait to try when I get home tonight!
Hi Steve, thanks for your kind words and for giving me such positive and inspiring feedback. As I mentioned briefly in the video there are 12 physical components that I think about and consider when building a system and because we are all so different the most efficient system design for one player will be completely different to another, and I really mean completely different!. My initial interest is in setting potential as high as possible and that is determined by the shape and size of the players physical 12. So it could be that your teacher didn't change his mouth set up but that doesn't mean you shouldn't. It's all about balancing your components through knowledge, sensation, experimentation and exploration and that's what this channel is all about. I'll do a video on tongue position very soon. For some configurations the tongue can become the dominant way to control pitch, for others (like me) it is active but not close to being my primary control component. Interesting with the steel pipe. If it works for you then keep going with it. Personally my routine doesn't involve any mouthpiece / lead pipe / lip buzzing etc at all. I prefer only to work with the trumpet . . . . . . . but that's not to say I wouldn't advise others with a different config' to do it!! All best, TP
Very cool. Looking forward to the next one.
Yes this is inspirational Paul. Now I've restarted playing at 76 my objectives are time limited. Just to play fairly tunefully not over complicated music not at very high register.
Thank you David. Great to hear you are playing again. All best, Paul
Trumpet prof
we hope to make for us a new videos in how all techniques you mentioned
Thank u 👍
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. It is wonderful to have people like you on this planet. Can you please share your thoughts about nervousness in an audition, contest, orchestra solo. My problem is I am very nervous in an audition for a free trumpet chair and I am not playing at my full value. Thank in advance. 🙏🤗
Hi Mike, this is a very important topic and one I plan to make a video about. My views on this are very much like trumpet playing. There are very basic techniques which can help everyone (like the videos on this channel) but to become the best you can be requires a personal approach and an almost bespoke technique. Overcoming or channeling nervous energy is a very personal thing and there are no quick fixes that will give immediate results. Start with your breathing and try to slow it down several hours before your event. Walk slowly, eat slowly, drink slowly do everything slowly. Don't eat or drink anything that will increase your heart rate unnecessarily (like caffeine etc). Get a sip straw (attached to small cartons of drinks) and exhale through it WITHOUT actually getting involved. So let the added resistance slow down the air flow. Using the straw allows you to remain relaxed and is different to simply breathing slowly.
Understanding how you play the trumpet is a big part of it to. It allows you to focus on the things that will allow you to get the job done. I don't totally agree with the whole paralysis by analysis thing.
I'll do a video soon. Hope that helps a little.. TP
Thanks for your inspiration!
Wonderful video. Do you do anything on sight reading and subdivision?
I want to play music that touches people's hearts and souls.
I'd love to hear that!
Hello Mr. Mayes at first big respect and my appreciation to your video. Exactly the same happened to me 100%. and I went through all this you told.100%... but I Solved it. I am now the player I always wanted to be with range flexibility and all what you need to have.. and yes you have to think out-of-the-box... much more further.
And at least I’d like to tell you that I like your style. You show a great humanity,love to what you say and do. This is 100% Noticeable throu your Videos...
Maybe I got the chance to meet you personally one time. All the best and keep on having fun on what you do...
Many thanks Siegfried. It would be a pleasure to meet you sometime. TP
I am 57 years of age. Started playing the trumpet at aged 13 and had to pack it in at 25 as I couldn't get anything above G on the stave. Fast forward to being 54 and I take up the tenor sax following by baritone and soprano sax and have reached a decent standard and am in a couple of bands. I always wondered what I did wrong in my trumpet playing years and so have decided to have one final throw at the dice to see if I can make it as a trumpet player...and have bought a secondhand trumpet....here goes!!!.
Good luck! How are you getting on with it? TP
Hi just recently discovered your You Tube channel I must say great ideas to work on the" sigh" especially is it that easy however ? Thank you for your videos Anthony
Hi Anthony, thanks for your comment. No it is not that easy! Very few things are easy to implement when you have already established your way of doing things but that's more because it takes time and patience. The sigh is more about delivering the air from the chest so you keep your face more relaxed. Blowing from the lips engages facial muscles that aren't necessarily needed to play so it's important to deliver your air in a way which allows you to play efficiently. Good luck. TP
Super!
Caro TP, vorrei entrare in contatto con te per delle lezioni, anche via Skype visto che abito in Italia. Ma voglio sfidare me stesso per dei progressi che nella mia ho fatto sempre fatica ad ottenere. Spero presto in una tua risposta. Grazie infinite è un piacere ascoltare le tue lezioni. Claudio
Hi Paul, I'm very glad to meet your channel, I've been looking for the best advice for trumpet and I think I finally found it.
I have a question for you and I'm gonna start describing me first, I'm a former trumpet player, I played when I was a teen, during my 13, 14 and 15.
I started playing the euphonium, but my dream was always to play the trumpet, but teachers always telling me my lower lip was too thick for the trumpet mouthpiece and when they tried me with the euphonium, I really did well.
But, finally I did it and I finished those ages playing trumpet.
I hadn't played for years until my brother gave me a trumpet for my birthday, so eventually I was playing, just to remember that time.
Now, due to Covid, I started seeking the net and I found your channel and my desire to play my trumpet again.
My question is, I'm now 36 and I'd like to know how possible is for me to play trumpet as a professional?
Concerning my age...
I'm gonna watch all your videos and follow your tips and of course, recommend your channel to friends..
Thank you for your time and I'll wait for your answer!
Victor Pinillos
Hi Victor. There is no age limit on becoming a professional player. If you're good enough, you have the potential to work as a trumpet player. Being presented with opportunities is something different but you have to start with ability. The size of the lower lip is not a factor in playing the trumpet well. Don't be in a hurry and don't try to cut corners. I will be posting again very soon. TP
Its all about the excercises. Master those...
This series is outstanding... thank you. For a future video, I wonder whether the community would find it useful for you to talk about grip. So many schools of thought... how do you think about this? I've done a decent job, I think, of removing tension from my grip... at least at the beginning of each section. If the section is long enough, I'll find myself ending with the left palm down and the right palm up, bent back at the wrist. Not sure what's going on there, nor how to identify and eliminate the root cause. I'll bet some thoughtful advice on fundamental grip mechanics would help.
Hi and thank you. It's an important aspect of playing and one which causes me the most difficulties so I have plenty of useful suggestions. Don't know if you've seen my facebook page but I plan to put some much shorter videos and video responses to these lessons out on it so consider visiting. TP
How to play the shofar with big lips??? Cant get the vibration to come out the front of my mouth, only on the sides. Playing the shofar, both with and without a trumpet mouthpiece.
I am on a comeback after more than 40 years since playing, so it has been back to basics. but with resources like yours, progress has been steady and I would need more reading proficiency to continue improving. What do you recommend. I struggle with reading, because I never learned it properly and was very basic. I am retired and live in Puerto Rico. Thank you, Miguel
Hi Miguel. I would suggest finding a book of popular tunes to play through and practice. It is better to play tunes that are familiar so you'll know if you are getting it right or wrong! You will improve your reading much quicker that way. Of course scale practice will also help. The main thing is to enjoy playing and give yourself time to learn new things. TP
I was an All-Region and All-Area trumpet player in the late 70's. I have not really played since. Now I have bought a new one, but I have no teeth (long story). I can't even seem to make much of a sound at all. I was wondering if you had any advice for how to get started like a beginner and learn to make a decent sound???
Hi Michael. Email me prof@thetrumpetprof.com
What a great channel. Back when I was 21 my lips were badly cut in a car accident, I lost my 2 of my front 4 upper teeth, and had other facial injuries. As a result there is scar tissue in both upper an lower lips that have really affected my trumpet playing. Plus the fact that I now had a bridge, it was all different.
It's been 40 years, and now I even have a replacement bridge, but with implants, so it is solid.
Needless to say, I want to rebuild my embouchure and play well again. I was thinking that maybe I should start with the Euphonium as a way to exercise my lips in a way to smooth out or reduce the scars. Is that something you would recommend as a first step?
Paul I'm so sorry I missed this comment and didn't reply. It sounds like an intelligent approach but I would advise going straight on with the trumpet. You may have already started the euph' in which case i would be interested to hear how you are getting on. Building strength in the lips is not necessary to play the trumpet really well. I have been trying for years to undo the process of building and focus more on positioning. Let me know where you are with it all and I will try to help you more.
prof@thetrumpetprof.com
TP
Just came across this video & subscribed IMMEDIATELY. Your bio is VERY impressive and your analytical manner in logically laying out your teaching really resonates with me, especially about knowledge of physics as it applies to trumpet pedagogy. My questions are: as you ascend into the upper register: 1) Is your air amount going into the horn decreasing and 2) Is more mouthpiece pressure imparted to the lower lip to free pressure on the upper lip? And is that formula (air and mouthpiece placement/pressure reversed in the middle & lower register?
Thank you Tyr. Yes as I ascend air amount into the trumpet is decreasing as air pressure increases. Mouthpiece pressure is an interesting topic and you may be surprised to know I actually use it to ascend. I don't transfer it on to the lower lip, it is equal on both. If the lips are relaxed it is not harmful. Of course the rest of my engine is set up to allow the mouthpiece pressure I use to be effective. It will only work with a particular type of playing system. Thanks for your questions. TP
I'm 59 years old, an avid recreational/semi-pro player. I used to have way exceptional upper-register chops, big fat lead player sound, lots of sizzle. No, I'm not inquiring about how to get my upper register back (I fear it's long gone--I've tried everything to get it back, to no avail.) Actually, I'm trying to figure out how to play SOFTER, mostly for church gigs. I just can't seem to play anything north of D or E without blowing fortissimo, especially if it involves tonguing (staccato). If it's slurred, I'm okay. If I back off to p or even mf, I can't produce a sound. What's wrong with me?!!!
Could be a few reasons but I'm guessing your lips are too compressed. Practice from low to high trying to turn silent air into sound.
Start at low C. White noise first and gently accelerate the air speed until the note appears. Let the process happen organically
Then onto D , E , F etc
If you get instant sound and no silent air try setting your further apart.
Hope that helps. TP
TP! Thanks for your these videos. Where can I get an expert, diagnostic check of my engine? Guided help in rebuilding the parts too?
Hi John. I am now offering Skype lessons which have so far been very successful. If you are UK based I also do private lessons. TP
Want to play like Derrick Watkins... Great channel.
Don't we all! A wonderful player who I had the pleasure of working with for several years. TP
Hi prof I've been contemplating a monette mouthpiece for a while. Ive been playing trumpet floor a long time and still play everyday. Mostly self taught. I had some early lessons though. Would you recommend a monette mouthpiece?
Yes I would. The guys at the factory are really helpful and if Jason is still there you should contact him for advice on size etc. TP
You are a monster Paul
I can feel my upper lip relaxing, I keep a very low tongue position below my bottom teeth will my tonguing gets its dynamics from the “ push” sensation? ( less tonguing more push?)
Wonderful!
I would like to have a private lesson with you.
How can I have it?
I'm waiting for your answer.
Hi Samuel. email me: prof@thetrumpetprof.com
I appreciate all that you do for trumpet players seeking to improve their playing,
Can you help me with the following question:
My equipment:
• Yamaha Xeno Cornet Bb
• Bremner ssssshhhh Mute
When I descend from second line G with the mute in, I can play two octaves fairly easily and close to being in tune, however without the mute, I struggle to get the pedal C to play anywhere near the concert Bb. It seems to be close to a full tone lower along with the other lower fingerings.
Is this because I have been playing too much with the mute in, or is this the natural frequency of the pedal C on this instrument?
I hope you can answer my question.
Regards
John Robinson
On another note Paul, which brand of Flugel horn is recommended for someone starting off, looking for the warmest sound from the minimum of outlay. Brands looked at are Thomann 600, Odyssey, Jupiter, John Packer etc.... and wow well done on the achievement of playing on Sky Fall! Terrific!
Hi. I'm a bit out of touch with flugelhorns I'm afraid. Had the same one for 25 years! My friends at Parkers brass shop in London could advise you if you drop them an email. Hope that helps. www.philparker.biz/
Thanks for the video and channel. One question that arose from seeing your students towards the end of the video. I noticed their mouthpiece placement differed noticeably especially horizontally. I wondered if this is something you work on with them from the start. If so I’d be interested in seeing how you go about finding that placement. (I was unsure whether this belonged here or trumpet takeaway). Thanks and look forward to seeing more videos.
Hi Anthony thanks for your question and well spotted! Yes the different placement positions are intentional and I will cover this in a video. I've moved players from playing in the centre to playing on the side (my own embouchure included) as the right placement is dependent on several personal factors. Thanks again. TP
having taken up playing in my latter years and playing most days I find that after about 30 minutes my lips start to get sore which affects my playing especially higher notes. I do try playing drop down pedal notes but still get the same problem.any advice?
Hi Anthony. As I'm sure you know it takes time to build strength and technique. Practice maybe 10 minutes per session allowing your lips time to rest. I haven't really shared specifically how to play high yet but the best advice is the advice which allows you to experiment and find your own way. Don't try to blow freely. By that I mean you need the air to be resisted at some point so you feel the air "back-up" and create some pressure. Create some white noise inside your mouth while you play. I will be posting again soon (after a very bad year for me) and am planning a website where you will be able to access much much more. TP
Do you also teach other brass instruments? For example a bass trombone?
Hi. I don't teach them directly but many of my concepts can easily and effectively be transferred onto them. I do play trombone. TP
Dear Paul, thank you very much for sharing your knowledge.
One question if you accept it from a beginner : is your drawing the engine itself or maybe just the upper part of the engine ?
Hi. I'm not sure I fully understand your question but my point in this video is that practice alone will only take you so far. Maybe it's far enough for what you want but the most common problem players will eventually face is getting the higher notes. My view is that common problems are a result of common techniques. If you want to avoid them you need to do something that is unconventional. For most this is difficult because by doing something unconventional you will always be told by the majority that you are doing it wrong! Let me know if you need any clarification or I've totally failed to answer your point! TP
Thank you for your answer. Watching the drawing, my suggestion was that, based on my short experience, the "engine" would possibly include a lower part, all the way down to lower abdomen muscles, that is essential to air control. I just wanted to invite you to comment on that if you wanted to. Alexandre
What is a good way to learn to play Jazz??
J. S. Listening to jazz is one if not the best way to play jazz
Hi, Prof< thanks from Russia! Please, give us more videos about engine!
Hi. Yes more will be coming soon. TP
What chance does one have if after not playing for years, then change embourchure and learn to play well again ?
Hi. Anyone can learn to play well at any time of life. Remember, you have the parts; just need to put them together the right way for you. If it was as easy as is often made out everyone would be doing it. But the majority of players don't achieve the level of playing they really desire because they are following a conventional approach. This channel will help you. It will take time but there are no quick fixes if you want to play well. Good luck. TP
All this can be applied to a Fluegelhorn?
Hello Art. Yes absolutely. Great instrument! TP
Skype lessons?
Fees?
email me: prof@thetrumpetprof.com
I don't know if you've ever heard of Robert Pichaureau which was a famous trumpet teacher who developped the same approche of focusing on build the roots of the sound first.
You can read some info about his methodology here: la.trompette.free.fr/Faucher/introduction-en.htm
It is witten by one of his former student that is continuing this way of teaching.
All your saying is very meaningful, but I don't understand why you're saying that this is for advance players ? It should be for every trumpet player who want to play in a more efficient and more rewarding way, isn't it ?
Thanks, I'll check that out. All trumpet players are very welcome on this channel but lengthy explanations and deeper analysis can turn many players away especially those who are younger and just play for fun. My Trumpet Takeaway channel has similar techniques and always with an emphasis on playing efficiently, but is presented in a more simplistic way. Thank you for sharing your view. TP
You talk too much 🙉
that maybe. . . but it's producing some amazing trumpet players.