Brass Mastery James D. Newcomb

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:
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.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.Age and Its Effects on Musicians: At 15:00, the conversation turns to how aging inevitably affects musicians differently, impacting their physical abilities.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.Visualizing Music: At 19:45, the technique of visualizing dramatic scenes to enhance musical performance is discussed.Inspiring vs. Enriching Audiences: Ronald Romm's teachings on the profound difference between inspiring and enriching audiences are explored at 22:15.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.Maurice Andre's Lessons on Trumpet Playing: At 34:35, lessons from Maurice Andre highlight the distinction between impressive and elegant trumpet playing.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.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.'Learning from William Vacchiano:...

In this podcast featuring the great Rex Richardson, various facets of his life and career are explored, providing insights into his journey and philosophy as a musician:
Anthropology Degree (03:00): The podcast reveals Rex's unexpected academic background with a degree in anthropology from Northwestern University. This segment discusses how his studies in anthropology have influenced his music career.Founding Rhythm and Brass (06:30): The origins of the musical group Rhythm and Brass, which Rex helped establish, are discussed.Connections with Audiences (08:10): Rex talks about the relationship between audiences and abstract compositions, exploring how listeners interact with and interpret more complex pieces.Commitment to Musical Mastery (10:45): The conversation touches on the ability of audiences to recognize a musician's dedication to mastering their craft, emphasizing the importance of commitment in music.Meaning of Virtuoso (14:00): The true essence of being a virtuoso is discussed, going beyond technical skills to include emotional depth and artistic expression.Expression in Music (16:00): Rex shares his views on the musician's role in expression versus emoting, highlighting the distinction between conveying emotions and deeper artistic intentions.Audience Takeaways (17:45): He expresses his desire for audiences to appreciate more than just the technical aspects of his performances, aiming to leave them with a deeper, more meaningful musical experience.Multiphonics (22:00): The podcast includes an educational segment on multiphonics, demonstrating Rex's expertise in this advanced brass playing technique.Early Challenges (25:50): Rex reflects on his initial struggles with the trumpet and shares insights on how to maximize efficiency in learning and playing the instrument.Balancing Schedules (27:30): He discusses how he manages a demanding schedule that includes both constant travel and a full-time teaching role.Rex's Varied Roles (31:45): It turns out that there are people with Rex's name out there, one of whom is the current mayor of Long Beach, CA and another who is a prominent real estate professional!
Resources mentioned:
Trumpet Dynamics episode with Paul Merkelo
Trumpet Dynamics episode with Chris Botti
About the Guest:
"A startling display of virtuosity...This was something very different, played by a performer of rare gifts indeed." -- 4barsRest.com, in a review of Rex Richardson's performance at the 2013 World Music Championship in Kerkrade, Netherlands
Renowned as champion of new, genre-busting music featuring the trumpet as a solo voice, Yamaha Performing Artist Rex Richardson was named the 2008 Brass Herald International Personality of the Year, has been called “One of the finest virtuosos of our time” (Brass Herald, 2018). 
A veteran of the acclaimed chamber ensemble Rhythm & Brass, jazz legend Joe Henderson's Quintet and Sextet, William Russo's Chicago Jazz Ensemble, and the world-renowned Brass Band of Battle Creek, his hundreds of soloist appearances include festivals and ensembles on six continents, such as the Phoenix Symphony and Thailand Philharmonic Orchestras, the U.S. Army Field Band and Tokyo Symphonic Winds, England's Fodens Brass Band, and the U.S. Air Force's Airmen of Note Jazz Ensemble. 
His latest CD Freedom of Movement: 21st Century Trumpet Concertos was released to critical and public acclaim, and named...

You may recall that a few weeks ago, I played a couple of interviews with the great Vinny Ciesielski. He's a wonderful person and has been a mainstay for years in the Nashville music scene. Vinnie really acquitted himself well in the podcast, so much so that I thought it would be interesting to see what would happen if I were to give him the reins for an interview on this podcast!
What you'll hear in this episode:
-Mike shares his founding origins on trumpet in the Nashville area...04:30
-Successes and pitfalls breaking into the Nashville scene in the late 1970's...09:45
-Mike and Vinnie discuss equipment for varying situations...19:05
-The worst things often lead to the best things...22:30
-How "overuse syndrome" nearly derailed a boatload of "natural talent"...29:15
-Serve the music, and remember just because you have it doesn't mean you need it...37:00
-The spirituality of the practice of music within and without...41:30
-What Mike would teach his teenage self...52:00
-Plus whatever your discerning ears deem worthy of your time and interest...
Resources mentioned:
Trumpet Dynamics podcast episodes with Vinnie Ciesielski
The Way of the Peaceful Warrior
About the Guest:
Attending Towson University in Maryland, Vinnie Ciesielski majored in music performance on trumpet, which he has played professionally for over 50 years.
Since coming to Nashville in 1992, Vinnie has played on thousands of recordings with artists such as Lyle Lovett, Travis Tritt, Tracy Byrd, Smokey Norful, Tanya Tucker, Glenn Frey, T.D. Jakes, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bad Company, Gregg Allman, Kirk Franklin, Queen Latifah, Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Israel Houghton, Demi Lovato, Grace Potter, Delbert McClinton, Alison Krauss, Taylor Swift, The Clark Sisters, Thomas Rhett, Nuno Betencort, Marcus Scott (Tower of Power) Steven Tyler, Vince Gill, Michael McDonald, Keb Mo, Johnny Taylor, Bobby Blue Bland, Via Con Dios, Martina McBride, Don Was, Zac Brown Band, and many more.
He has performed live with artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Gladys Knight, Kid Rock, Keith Richards, Jimmy Buffett, Paul Simon, Sting, Tony Bennett, Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Kenny Rogers, Shelby Lynne, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The O’Jays, Aretha Franklin, Percy Sledge, Shawn Colvin, Eddie Floyd, Booker T. and the MGs, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Bob Hope, Frankie Valli, Sheryl Crow, Adrian Belew, Bruce Hornsby, Michael McDonald, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles and The Beach Boys.
He has also appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,, Late Night with David Letterman, Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Kimmel, Good Morning America, The Today Show, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, CBS New Years Eve Bash, The Road, SoundStage, Disney and Universal TV specials, Nashville Now, Music City Tonight, Austin City Limits, Grand Old Opry, Rosie O’Donnell, Ellen’s Really Big Show, Crossroads, The Dove Awards and The Stellar Awards. Vinnie has performed on numerous Radio, Internet, TV and Movie soundtracks and Trailers. He has also performed with the Nashville Symphony, Chattanooga Symphony, Orchestra Kentucky, Nashville and Knoxville Jazz Orchestras.
Well known in the performance and recording community, Vinnie’s resume includes work on over 6,000 recording sessions, 50 Grammy-nominated and 25 Grammy-winning recordingsand dozens of Stellar and Dove Award nominated and winning recordings. Vinnie has also been the horn arranger on multiple Grammy, Dove and Stellar nominated and winning recordings.
Thank you for joining us on "Trumpet Dynamics" – telling the story of the trumpet, in the words of those who play it....

Have you ever heard the saying, "Love is what drives the world"? It’s a phrase we encounter often, but have you ever connected its essence to something you're deeply passionate about?
In this episode featuring the great Nathaniel Mayfield, we'll dive deep into this concept, and what we uncover might surprise you!
A trumpet is nothing more than a simple piece of plumbing. But when we breathe life into it, it becomes intimately personal, a vessel for our emotions, a conduit through which we pour out the deepest sentiments of our heart.
When you play or engage in your craft, whatever it may be, it’s not just about the technicalities; it's about the love and soul you invest into it. Every note, every brushstroke, every word – they become extensions of your essence, speaking your unique language of love.
So, ask yourself: when you delve into your passion, are you truly connecting with it? Are you letting it be a bridge to something larger, something divine?
Can you feel that energy, that love, coursing through you, making every act of creation a testament to your connection with the universe?
Your journey as a trumpeter, or whatever craft you may pursue, is filled with challenges. But imagine facing every intricate detail, every hurdle you overcome with an overwhelming embrace of love.
Not just as a fleeting emotion, but as a driving force that propels you to evolve, learn, and express in ways you might not have thought possible before.
Isn’t that the beauty of love? In every aspect of your life, when you let love be the guide, your experiences transform. You discover resilience in tough times, glean wisdom from setbacks, and above all, unearth the profound purpose behind your passions.
So I ask you to ponder this: are you allowing love to navigate your journey? Is it truly your guiding star?
When we allow love to influence our choices, shape our experiences, and redefine your reality, it could very well be the secret to unlocking your ultimate potential.
Here are a few highlights you'll hear in this episode with Nathaniel Mayfield:
-Music is a spiritual journey, and it doesn't matter how much we're involved with it...04:10
-Nate's personal journey with trumpet, from young boy to the present...06:00
-"I don't care about winning competitions; I just want to enjoy music"...10:30
-"You feel like a part of you is missing"...14:10
-Everything we do as it pertains to music is done out of love...17:50
-Serendipitous callings back to trumpet...20:45
-The love of trumpet was dissipated by The Grind of competing and touring...24:30
-Maturity leads to how you self-identify as it pertains to music and trumpet...31:50
-Nate describes in detail his recent psychedelic journey in Tijuana...36:00
-Reconciled previous destructive behavior from trumpet playing...01:01:00
-What might a Nate Mayfield "trumpet comeback" look like?...01:02:30
-Trumpet is our first love, which is why so many feel disillusioned by it...01:06:30
-Plus whatever your discerning ears deem worthy of your time and interest...
Thank you for joining us on "Trumpet Dynamics" – telling the story of the trumpet, in the words of those who play it.
For more captivating episodes and exclusive content, visit our official website at trumpetdynamics.com. There you can dive deeper into the interviews, discover additional resources, and connect with your fellow trumpeters.
Also be sure to subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and even leave a rating and review. It really helps with the visibility of the show.
Until we meet again, may your fingers be fluid, your breath unimpeded, and your chops ever fresh.
Play hard!
**Many thanks to the great