Non-Pro & Comeback Players Session: Vibrato Usage: Varying the approach when playing in different ensembles, genres, and eras of music with Robert Sears

Have you ever considered that different idioms, styles, ensembles, and passages (even within the same piece of music) might necessitate changing the approach to vibrato usage? Could utilizing a one-size-fits-all approach to vibrato have a limited impact on music-making?

During this session, we will explore vibrato usage in a variety of settings and ensembles. Highlights include:
– Looking at some vibrato approaches used by renowned classical trumpeters in solo and chamber music settings.
– When and where the “commercial sizzle” might be employed in the orchestra.
– General vibrato trends of principal and section players in the orchestra.
– Vibrato in big band jazz. Specifically, observing some tendencies of vibrato usage in early jazz, Count Basie’s Orchestra, Duke Ellington’s Orchestra, and modern-day groups such as the Maria Schneider Jazz Orchestra.
– Jazz soloists varied approaches to vibrato.
– Vibrato in baroque era music? Should we, or shouldn’t we?
– Commercial vs. symphonic vibrato. When and where to switch the approach?
The goal – help trumpeters choose a vibrato that is informed and comfortable to who they are, while also being stylistically and era-appropriate.

I hope to see you there!
-Robert

The Non-Pro Player Committee is here to serve you. We hope that you will let us know what we can do to better serve you.
Sign Up for Quarterly Emails