Presents
The Comeback Player and Older Beginner
I currently teach several comeback players, and older beginners. They all range in age from approximately 50 something to 70 something. There are many similarities between the two groups of players, but there are also some distinct differences between them. I have decided to cover each group separately for the sake of clarity.
First, I need to state the following disclaimer:
I am a teacher of brass; trumpet being my specialty; and as such I have my own opinions on trumpet embouchure, hand position, trumpets, mouthpieces, technique, etc. There are as many opinions as there are teachers. I will never argue with a fellow teacher on any of these trumpet related issues for the simple reason that an argument of such would prove itself to be fruitless. I will never change that teacher's opinion, and eventhough I have an open mind, I tend to doubt that he/she will change my opinion.
Let's first discuss a few of the similarities between the two groups of players (comeback players, older beginners).
1- Both groups of players have a love for the instrument (trumpet, of course). Whether they have memories of; Harry James, Rafael Mendez, the sounds of Stan Kenton's Big Band, or fond memories of playing with the high school marching band; the majority of players in both groups that I questioned stated that fond memories were responsible in their decision to either learn how to play trumpet, or return to the trumpet.
2- Members of both groups of players are very outgoing and involved in community activities, and or job related activities. Could this possibly be why they chose the trumpet as an instrument to pursue?
3- Members of both groups are very creative and are usually involved in other artistic endeavors.
Now for the differences!
THE "COME BACK" PLAYER
1- Most members of the "comeback players"group reported that they either were "lousy" trumpet players in school, or that they had reached a plateau in their playing. Some members in this group even admitted that they had quit because playing the trumpet became a chore, and that they knew deep down inside that they had embouchure difficulties. One player in this group that I had interviewed said that he quit because his neck would expand a tremendous amount, and he would begin to gag when playing (not good!).
2- The majority of the "comeback players" group reported that they did not take private instruction during their early years on the instrument.
3- The majority of the "comeback players" group are extremely committed to their instrument, are very consistent when it comes to keeping their lesson appointments, and practicing.
THE "OLDER" BEGINNER
Ed Grant at work
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The Definition
to be cont.
