Belwin 21st Century Band Method, Level 1: B-flat Trumpet/Cornet Book

This method builds real momentum for first-year trumpet students through a deliberate mix of classical, popular, folk, and folk-inspired repertoire alongside carefully designed skill sequences. The inclusion of duets, rounds, and "Songs Just for the Fun of It" keeps students motivated without sacrificing depth in rhythm study and technique. Best of all, the achievable one-year completion arc sends the message that learning trumpet is entirely within reach, which translates to students who actually want to continue.

Like building something solid from the ground up. The lessons move at a thoughtful pace, never rushing, and they celebrate small wins with pieces that feel complete even at the earliest stages. There's a genuine sense of variety woven through each page, so trumpet playing never feels repetitive or mechanical.

Beginning trumpet and cornet players, typically in middle school or older elementary settings, who benefit from a structured, motivational approach to fundamentals. This method works equally well for students starting in a band classroom or those picking up trumpet for the first time in a private studio.

• Approach the duets as genuine collaboration opportunities rather than exercises. Pair students of similar progress and rotate partners frequently so each player experiences both melody and harmony lines.
• Use the three included concert programs as your finishing posts for each quarter or trimester. Knowing a public performance date gives students concrete purpose and helps you scaffold practice habits progressively across the level.
• Reinforce the rhythm study sequences by having students clap and count before they play any new rhythm pattern. This separates rhythm comprehension from valve coordination and catches errors early.
• Leverage the accompaniment CD for rounds and full ensemble pieces. Playing with a recorded section fills out the sound and makes thin first-year ensembles sound fuller, which boosts confidence.

Use this as your primary curriculum if you're launching a new beginning band or refreshing your approach to Level 1 trumpet instruction. The three built-in concerts align naturally with fall, winter, and spring performance schedules, giving you ready-made benchmarks and eliminating the need to hunt for separate recital material.

• Proper embouchure formation and breath support
• Valve coordination in rhythmic patterns and melodic contexts
• Reading in treble clef with consistent reinforcement of new note names
• Rhythmic literacy including whole notes, half notes, quarter notes, eighth notes, and basic rests
• Ensemble listening and balance in duets and rounds
• Articulation clarity using separate and connected tongue strokes
• Pitch accuracy through repeated work with open tones and simple melodies
• Music theory foundations tied directly to the repertoire being learned