Well, of course there is a follow up story to the GR news last week. I got an email from Karl Hammond of Schilke Music telling me that he could make me a 15B mouthpiece with a slightly flatter rim. The sound that I got on that 15B was so amazing that I had to take him up on it. Fortunately the price will not break the bank and I want to give it a whirl just to remove all questions from my mind.
That being said I have started to lock into the GR 66M & FL. My lower registered suffered a bit due to the size reduction but I’ve discovered what I need to do in order to keep the sound consistent throughout the horn. One thing is for sure — this is a great mouthpiece and the upper register is really easier. It is possible that I won’t even want to try the Schilke when it arrives (not sure of the date yet). I will keep you updated on this soon to be ending saga…
As many of you know I have been playing with a master class and taking regular private lessons. Both have been very beneficial to my growth but as you can imagine, they were also expensive. Because of that I have been forced to drop out of the master classes. Believe me when I say that this was a very difficult decision. I had to step back and look at which one was offering the most benefit. Because I have only been playing trumpet for 5 years (in March), it is very important that I get regular TRUMPET instruction. I want to avoid bad habits at this early stage of the game. I am also lucky enough to study with a cat who is a great legit and jazz player… best of both worlds. To compensate for not playing with a group I have several friends who live near by… I’m hoping that I can get together with them from time to time to play. I’d also like to try my hand at one of the local jam sessions in the area.
Speaking of teacher – I just want to mention a few things about my teacher – Chris Battistone. I’ve been studying with him for a while now and he has really helped me improve in all areas of my playing. We spend an equal amount of time addressing how to approach the trumpet AND how to improvise. My wife and I had the pleasure of checking him out at Blues Alley and he showed that he can do way more than just talk the talk. He’s killer talented. I truly feel that I am in good hands. He also takes the time to answer all the emails that I send him regularly asking questions. Chris – if you’re reading this… thanks a million!
For now my improv focus is working on playing the blues — fluently. Not just using the Bb blues scale throughout but addressing changes and using substitutions where appropriate. I’m hoping that will be a great launch pad for me to take my improvisation to the next level.