Beginner training plan
Your first lessonMake a sound. (Entry into tone production and understanding the mechanisms. Learning parts of the horn and how to take care of it. Understanding how the trumpet works/changes notes.)
Lesson 2-3Hold a sound. (Entry into breath support. Studying ‘long-tones’ on the first 3-5 notes. Introducing dynamics. Review inner working of the instrument.)
Lesson 4-10Move a sound. (Developing range to stretch into the first scale; Bb. Working on ‘introductory’ songs. Checking embouchure development and building stability.)
Lesson 11+Sound a song! (Further range development and first etude/workbook assignment. First dexterity exercise is introduced. Preparations to start working with the instrument, ‘calisthenically’.)
Youth players
Working with kidsIn working with the youngest players, I like to make sure they can generate a sustained sound. Focusing on this can help them build a foundation to navigate through some part of the instrument.
Working with teenagersIn working with teens, I first assess where they are and then ask questions to understand their musical goals. This helps craft the approach the student needs to be able to play the way the want to play.
