Be still the cockles of my old bitter heart- that nearly brought tears. Wow. I posit a question to you, the trombone community, and tangentially address Allen’s question: HOW, as artists, teachers, humans, and musicians, do we/you convey to our students and the public en masse, that MUSICALITY, and specifically lyric playing of the sort [...]

Don’t miss trombone virtuoso, Mr. Bill Watrous, this Saturday at California State University, East Bay. Rarely do you get the opportunity to hear a world class musician playing and giving advice “in your backyard” for FREE. This event is graciously sponsored by Mr. Dick Akright at A&G Music, coordinated by Mr. Dean Hubbard, and hosted [...]

Look out! “Meeting with Masters, or Thoughts on Music with people who don’t suck” is coming soon! Artwork candidate The premiere episode to feature Mr. Alex Iles, Los Angeles studio trombonist, pedagogue, orchestral musician, and inspiring human. Recorded episodes to come include:Mr. Rod Gilfry – 30 year career as an international Operatic Baritione, star of [...]

A free lesson to help beginning brass students get started. Worksheets to accompany the free audio files (audio in .mp3, worksheet in .pdf) An introduction to my teaching style, process, and personality. Something that is designed for the beginning student, but applicable to all.

Instrument maintenance is perhaps the most often overlooked area by students (and professionals).  I have created the following twelve maintenance videos on my YouTube channel.  They were recorded in hi-def 720p, and I will be working in the next few weeks to improve the sound quality for you. It sounds simple, but if you follow [...]

Where the heck are the videos you promised? Hi there! Sigh- technology is fun and challenging. I’m running out now to play with the Four Tops, and am having some difficulties with the website. All will b fixed by Monday. Please visit DrJ YouTube Channel to see the videos until I get them, and the [...]

I hope that you’ve had an outstanding year, and are ready to relax, recharge, and have a great summer! It has been a privilege to assist your child in their musical development this year, and I would like to thank you for that opportunity. I am available for private instruction this summer, and would love [...]

You have no problems. I have no problems. It’s too easy to get overwhelmed, overloaded, pessimistic, and want to just “check out.” Don’t know what I’m talking about? (Must be nice to be an alien) For the rest of us, it’s the daily journey, challenge, and effort to keep on “keepin on” and make progress– [...]

I finally get it. One of the best things about playing in the YouTube Symphony was the chance to collaborate and be coached by Mr. Ian Bousfield, solo trombonist with the Vienna Philharmonic. His constant urging for more precision in articulation and rhythmic accuracy not only helped me with some issues I’ve had in my [...]

Oh No! It’s Spring Break/Christmas/Hanukkah/St. Mary the patron saint of Brassologist’s Day/etc. and I’ve got a big gig/audition rich after break! Well friend, let’s face it: there’s no quick fix, and no magical fairy to having chops–trust me, I’ve looked. Here’s just a few quick tips to keep you focused and come back perhaps stronger [...]