Session Proposals

Trumpeter and conductor Dr. Richard Tirk has performed on five continents and for as varied audiences from the King and Queen of Norway to the outdoor concert in the park crowd in Woodstock, Illinois, his hometown.  In addition to solo performing, Tirk has been a member of several Midwest orchestras, opera orchestras, and jazz ensembles sharing the stage with artists such as Doc Severinsen, Itzhak Perlman, and Joyce DiDonato.  A sought after clinician, Dr. Tirk has given masterclasses across the U.S., Brazil, Haiti, and the British Isles.  Richard has a music education degree from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, and degrees in trumpet performance from Western Michigan University and Michigan State University.  He currently teaches trumpet and directs the jazz program at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. 

This session will demonstrate the impact a properly fitted mouthpiece and quality mutes can have on your trumpet section. As trumpet students progress, their equipment needs to grow with them to allow for freer sound, stellar articulation, and to avoid frustration.

The trumpet mouthpiece comes in so many varieties that it is often difficult to figure out if it is the proper size and fit for that student. The clinic will offer ideas on how to assess a trumpet student, thoughts on when to switch mouthpieces, and suggest a general plan for a director. Additionally, the session will provide a detailed explanation of some of the less common terms used when discussing mouthpieces.

In band, orchestra, and jazz, mutes are a standard tool for composers to create different colors and timbres. From the common straight mute to the plunger, mutes come in a variety of materials from different manufacturers and varying quality. This portion of the clinic will focus on selecting mutes to heighten the ensemble experience and recommend ways of using mutes to refine sound concepts in the trumpeter. An in-depth look at the best mute materials and cork solutions will also be proffered.

Mutes and mouthpieces are critical components of successful brass playing. Having the right equipment can make the trumpet player's ensemble participation more enjoyable and promote their musical growth.

• Band - Middle School
• Band - Secondary
• Orchestra - Secondary
• Collegiate