Carnaval: Trumpet Book

Hunsberger wrote these solos directly for Wynton Marsalis, which means you're working with material refined by one of the greatest trumpet soloists of our time. The collection spans a quarter-century of proven success in recital halls and studios, giving you access to repertoire that professionals trust. Each solo stands on its own musically while offering genuine challenge for advanced players.

These solos capture the elegance and virtuosic spirit that define the cornet and trumpet tradition. Expect moments of lyrical warmth alongside passages that celebrate the instruments' brightness and technical agility, all grounded in Hunsberger's compositional clarity.

Advanced trumpet and cornet soloists preparing for recital performance or competition. This collection suits players who have mastered fundamental technique and are ready to engage with sophisticated musical material that demands interpretive maturity alongside instrumental skill.

• Study the original recordings if available. Hearing how Marsalis approaches these solos provides invaluable insight into phrasing, articulation, and the interpretive choices Hunsberger intended.
• Treat the piano part as a full conversation partner, not accompaniment. The writing creates genuine chamber music, so rehearse with your pianist early and often.
• Pay attention to Hunsberger's articulation markings with precision. His notation carries specific expressive intent that shapes the character of each solo.
• Work through technical passages slowly to understand the underlying harmonic movement. This collection rewards thoughtful practice that connects technique to musicality.

Feature one or two solos in a solo recital to anchor the program with substantial, professionally-respected repertoire. These work equally well as showcase pieces for advanced students in studio recitals or as demonstration material when teaching brass interpretation and phrasing.

• Sustained melodic phrasing over longer harmonic progressions
• Advanced articulation technique and nuance (staccato, legato, and hybrid styles)
• Harmonic awareness and improvisation within structured frameworks
• Chamber music listening and collaboration with piano
• Interpretive decision-making and stylistic maturity
• Range command and dynamic control across the entire trumpet register