Summer Practice
I just finished three wonderful weeks working with young trumpet students, first at the Music For All Summer Symposium at Ball State University in Muncie Indiana, and then at our own Crane Youth Music. It’s always an inspiration spending time with young players. Their enthusiasm and energy is so motivating!
Summertime for many of us means time off from our regular routine – no classes, not as many concerts, etc. I always view summer as a great opportunity to get to know the trumpet again. Here are a few suggestions for summer practice:
1. Set goals. This can be as easy as saying you are going to play the trumpet every day! (an excellent goal, in my opinion…) It’s a great time to work on areas of our playing that might get neglected during the regular season. Clean up that double tonguing? Play through all the Arban Characteristic studies? Clarke studies? This is the time…
2. Learn new material. Without all the pressure of multiple concerts, this is a great time to start learning new material. Start looking at new works, begin working on recital material or orchestral excerpts, or just explore. Transcribe and memorize some jazz trumpet solos – even if you don’t play jazz.
3. Make practice your daily meditation. Flow studies, scales and arpeggios make great meditative practice routines. Don’t try to play them faster or better – just play them. Enjoy the moment. Which leads to the final suggestion;
4. Have fun! Enjoy your trumpet. Make music.
Have a great summer!
