A collegiate approach: the instructor’s role in preparing students for collegiate trumpet study

Abstract

Effective pre-collegiate trumpet instruction is essential in preparing students for the first year of collegiate trumpet study. During the first year of college, students often find themselves overwhelmed with new demands and high expectations. By incorporating the teaching ideologies of American trumpet pedagogues Vincent Cichowicz, James Stamp, and William Adam, with a focus on the fundamental principles of trumpet playing, the pre-collegiate trumpet instructor can ease the transition to college. Through lesson organization, a learner-centered teaching approach, and correction of detrimental playing tendencies, the instructor can teach efficient practice concepts and organizational skills that will establish productive student practice routines and self-teaching skills. Furthermore, carefully selected trumpet literature can acclimate the student to common collegiate lesson assignments and performance requirements. With increasing competition in trumpet study, thoughtful and effective college preparation will lead to a productive collegiate trumpet study experience.