Measures of Success Trumpet Book 2: Trumpet Method Book

Sheldon and her co-authors built this method around genuine musical inquiry rather than rote drill work. Students encounter repertoire and concepts that reflect how musicians actually engage with music in the world, making every exercise feel purposeful rather than arbitrary.

The book balances focused technical work with moments of genuine musicality. Students experience both the discipline of building facility and the satisfaction of playing recognizable, musically interesting material that rewards their growing skill.

Trumpet students in their second year of study, whether in a full concert band or smaller ensemble setting. This method works equally well for players moving sequentially through a comprehensive curriculum or joining mid-stream in an established program.

• Return to earlier exercises when introducing new technical material. This reinforces foundational skills while building confidence in unfamiliar contexts.
• Use the provided repertoire selections as performance opportunities, not just workbook material. Recording students or performing for other classes transforms abstract practice into real musical communication.
• Pair written reflection activities with playing. Ask students to notice what they're hearing and feeling as they work through concepts, creating conscious connections between thinking and doing.

Layer this into your regular rehearsal routine as a complement to band repertoire, dedicating consistent time each week to method work. The conceptual foundation it provides strengthens students' ability to learn and interpret the music you're working on in ensemble.

• Intermediate range extension and accuracy on trumpet
• Articulation styles including legato, staccato, and marcato
• Sight-reading in common keys and simple meter changes
• Understanding of how musical concepts connect to performance technique
• Self-assessment and reflection on progress toward specific goals