Brass Mastery...

What does that even mean?

There's always something to work on; something that can be done better. Some thing that wasn't perfect.

And even if we achieve some level of success on a brass instrument - have we truly mastered it?

It's always two steps forward, one step back, isn't it? making the idea of Brass Mastery truly elusive.

But what if our instrument is not the thing we should be trying to master. Maybe there's more to Brass Mastery than playing higher, faster and louder than the next guy.

What if we are the ones we need to master? Our body, mind and spirit.

And if we are able to master ourself, does it even matter whether we master our instrument?

My name is James D. Newcomb, and in this podcast we will uncover the secrets of those who have seemingly mastered their brass instrument. We will dive deep into conquering those elements - body, mind, spirit (with just enough pedagogy to keep it real) - in hopes of taking our playing and our quality of life to the next level.

Will some view this project as a high-minded fool's errand? Just another podcast that's trying to make a quick buck?

Perhaps.

But I'm willing to take that risk to see if Brass Mastery is truly possible.

Will you join me?

Then let's begin.

Trumpet Dynamics is now Brass Mastery.

This is the short version of the transition and what to expect in the future!

TLDR: We're hugely broadening the audience, and even hugelier narrowing the breadth of topics discussed.

Our esteemed guest, Jim Olcott, is someone whose work I've long admired. He's the retired professor of trumpet at Miami University of Ohio, the founder of Triplo Press, and the musical director of the Twin Cities Trumpet Ensemble. His extensive background in trumpet music promised an enriching conversation.

In this episode, we touched on several fascinating topics:

• The Intersection of Music and Life: Jim provided his balanced and insightful views on how music should weave into our lives.
• Changing Perspectives with Age: We discussed how our viewpoints and priorities evolve as we grow older.
• The Essence of Performance: I was curious about Jim's thoughts on the purpose behind performing - whether it's to inspire, to enrich, or something else entirely.

For those interested in diving deeper into Jim's world, our show notes at trumpetdynamics.com/olcott, which contain links to some of his recent recordings.

Jim candidly admitted that he might not be at the peak of his playing abilities compared to his younger years. However, I assured you, dear listener, that his performance remains outstanding, reflecting the nuanced reality of aging in the arts.

This episode is a beautiful blend of personal stories, professional insights, and even some music for you listening pleasure at the very end. With my wife Sana adding adding a few of her thoughts in the middle, it's the perfect way to get your mind focused on making some great music!

This is more than just a podcast episode; it's a journey through the realms of trumpet music, teaching, and the art of living a life deeply intertwined with music.

A few highlights from this episode:

1. Twin Cities' Musical Opportunities: The episode begins with a discussion at 05:00 about the benefits of moving to the Twin Cities, highlighting the abundant playing opportunities and the community's generous spirit in music.
2. Passion for Playing and Teaching: At 09:50, there's a reflection on the joy of playing, teaching, and the aspiration to inspire others, as well as the importance of camaraderie among musicians.
3. Age and Its Effects on Musicians: At 15:00, the conversation turns to how aging inevitably affects musicians differently, impacting their physical abilities.
4. The Orchestra as an Instrument: A unique perspective is shared at 16:45, where the orchestra is described as an instrument in itself, offering a collective musical experience.
5. Visualizing Music: At 19:45, the technique of visualizing dramatic scenes to enhance musical performance is discussed.
6. Inspiring vs. Enriching Audiences: Ronald Romm's teachings on the profound difference between inspiring and enriching audiences are explored at 22:15.
7. Self-Concept in Musicians: A deep dive into the complex nature of self-concept among musicians occurs at 28:40, emphasizing how it's shaped by perceptions rather than reality.
8. Maurice Andre's Lessons on Trumpet Playing: At 34:35, lessons from Maurice Andre highlight the distinction between impressive and elegant trumpet playing.
9. Triplo Press's Founding and Publication Process: The founding of Triplo Press and the criteria for vetting new pieces for publication are discussed at 39:30.
10. The Book of Life: At 47:45, there's a philosophical exploration of the four essential actions to be included in the 'Book of Life.'
11. Learning from William Vacchiano:...