GR Consultant Bert Truax
Bert, how did you get
started on trumpet?
I started playing the trumpet at age 7, when I picked up a neighbors trumpet. I went up to his room and his trumpet case was open. It was love at first sight!
Where did you go to school and with whom did you study?
My first trumpet teacher was Joseph Alessi Sr. I studied one year at Indiana University under Bill Adam. Then I went to the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia where I studied with Gilbert Johnson. My other teachers included James Stamp, Tom Stevens, and Frank Kaderabek
What trumpet playing challenges did you have to overcome and how did you do it?
Three years ago a had crowns put on my front teeth, and couldn't play the way I had for over 40 years. I went to see Gary, and he helped me to understand the physics of brass playing, and gave me amazing exercises that actually made me a better than I was BEFORE the crowns .
I have been able to help other people with similar problems thanks to Gary.
Who are your musical influences today?
My musical influences are pretty much the same today as they have always been . The great orchestral composers and performers, most of them not trumpet players. I have found that listening to great musicians, on any instrument, makes me a better musician. The same goes for jazz. The trumpet players that have influenced my playing range from Adolph Herseth and Maurice Andre, to Maynard Ferguson and Miles Davis.
What gigs do you play? Any interesting gig stories?
After 23 years in the
Dallas Symphony, I am now at a point in my career that I can play what I want
to play. One of the most rewarding playing experiences now, is playing a jazz
worship service every Sunday with my wife Sarah, who plays the violin. Giving
thanks to God though my trumpet for the gifts He has given me is spiritually
rewarding.
One of my best stories was during a summer music festival. The trumpets decided to add a bar in the opening of the march section of Light Cavalry Overture. We spread the word, not knowing if the orchestra would follow us. Well, they did! Nobody laughed or gave it away. Drove the conductor nuts!!
Do you teach or conduct clinics?
I love teaching, giving
back to younger players my years of experience. Right now I teach at Texas A&M
Commerce, and have a very successful private studio as well. I enjoy giving
clinics, and in fact just got back form doing master classes a performances at
the University of Missouri, and the University of Kansas.
Also, my wife and I started the Bert Truax School of Trumpet, a week long Summer day camp for high school and talented middle school trumpeters. Now in it's 4th year, we have ha some of the top trumpeters in the business, including Phil Smith, Jon Lewis, and Marvin Stamm.
Gary Radke and Brian Scriver will be making their 2nd appearance together this summer. The dates are June 23rd to the 28th. More information an be found on my website: www.whiterockmusic.com
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Describe your first meeting with GR.
I first met Gary at the 2003 ITG conference in Fort Worth. It was there that we found out we were long lost brothers. We've working together ever since.
As a GR Consultant, what are the typical playing / equipment issues you see with
customers.
Most often players come to me because they realize that they are working too hard. Playing on mouthpieces that their teachers told them to play, because their teacher told them to play it, and their teachers teacher told them to play it.
I try to give them knowledge on a new way of thinking, understanding that when the player, mouthpiece, and horn are matched, they will be a much more efficient players, and reach their goals sooner.
Any final thoughts?
Play the trumpet for the love of music, and not out of ego. The word is a dark place, and your gift can spread some light, and lift spirits. We don't need anymore jocks trying to outplay each other. This is not a contest, but a journey, one that can give you pleasure, and pleasure to others.
Bert is one of GR's most 'in demand" Consultants and is located in the Dallas / Fort Worth area of Texas.
To contact Bert for a consultation:
(214)789-3726