Lessons in Performance Book 1, Around the World - Trumpet 2: Trumpet 2 Method Book

This collection treats second trumpet players as equal participants in the musical experience rather than relegating them to simple countermelody. The mix of folk traditions, ceremonial pieces, and character studies gives your ensemble genuine repertoire to sink their teeth into while Sheldon's voice writing ensures meaningful parts that reinforce section blend and intonation work.

A musical passport. Whether you're waltzing through European folk traditions, experiencing ceremonial grandeur, or grooving through The Chicken Dance, each piece carries its own personality while maintaining consistent trumpet writing. The variety keeps players engaged across a full rehearsal without stylistic whiplash.

Second trumpet players in developing concert bands and students who benefit from etude-style material that doubles as real repertoire. The collection works equally well for individual practice and ensemble rehearsal, making it ideal for players building confidence in second part voice leading and ensemble listening skills.

• Balance the rhythmic momentum in pieces like March Ceremonial and Patriotic Salute by locking in with your section's articulation patterns during ensemble rehearsal before working on individual phrasing.
• In the folk song arrangements, listen for the melody line (usually carried by first trumpet or another section) and shape your counterparts to complement rather than compete, especially in pieces like An Irish Ballade and V'la le bon vent.
• Mark your breathing points clearly during the slower, lyrical sections so you maintain phrase shape without gasping mid-line or creating awkward cutoffs that disrupt the ensemble sound.
• When the part sits in the upper range, as it does in several selections, focus on consistent air support and embouchure stability rather than forcing the sound; these pieces reward endurance over aggressive playing.

These arrangements work beautifully as warm-up and cool-down material in rehearsal, rotating through different cultural contexts to keep sectional work fresh. You might also select three or four contrasting pieces as a stand-alone second trumpet recital or feature them at a family concert where cultural diversity and accessibility create an inviting program.

• Voice leading and part independence within ensemble texture
• Reading and playing folk song melodies in varied styles and cultural traditions
• Breath management in both lyrical and rhythmically active passages
• Intonation and blend with section mates in close harmonic intervals
• Articulation control across contrasting musical characters and tempo markings