BIO

Kurt Thompson started playing trumpet officially in 5th grade. However, by the end of 6th grade, he was last chair and the worst trumpet player in the band. Kurt enjoyed school sports more at that time.

During the summer between 6th and 7th grade, Kurt got with a private instructor for the first time and his talent at trumpet became obvious when he actually made an effort. Kurt started 7th grade and by the Christmas concert was 1st chair. Kurt was first chair in almost every band from that point on.

Kurt auditioned and made 1st chair and/or solo trumpet at Tennessee All-State Band.

Kurt received a full music scholarship to Austin Peay State University where he became 1st chair in every music organization there. Kurt was known in college for his rendition of Maynard's "Gabriel".

This video of Kurt was sent to Maynard in CA and also a copy was sent to NTSU. Kurt received a positive reply from Maynard regarding auditioning and was invited down to NTSU to meet Maynard and some other potential candidates at the university.

Notwithstanding the last 20 years, Kurt has performed in too many bands to list here, but Broadway shows at OPRYLAND U.S.A, BUSCH GARDENS, KING'S ISLAND, numerous recording sessions in Nashville, Cincinnati, Seattle, Touring with The Jordanaires ( Neil Matthews and Gordon Stoker...Elvis' back up singers from when he first was on the Ed Sullivan Show).

Kurt currently holds a single subject music credential in CA and has taught more than 1000 trumpet students in a private setting in addition to teaching Band and General Elementary Music.

Influences:

Maynard Ferguson
Maurice Andre
Bud Brisbois
Bill Chase
Doc Severinsen

The Trumpet is a great instrument whether jazz trumpet or solo trumpet, but requires a very strong embouchure. What kind of trumpet notes require this type of strong embouchure? High C, Double C, and Triple C all would require a strong embouchure to play these high trumpet notes. A trumpeter must take trumpet lessons to increase skill level. Trumpeters like Maynard Ferguson playing the trumpet solo, Give It One, and Bill Chase playing the trumpet solo, Get It On, had a very strong trumpet embouchure. Trumpets are made out of brass and make a beautiful sound when used in trumpet songs. James Last Orchestra also featured many fine trumpet players. This site has trumpet tips, trumpet websites, trumpet sites, trumpet teachers, trumpet tutors, and trumpet lessons. Don't forget about TPIN, Trumpet Player's International Network, ITG, and International Trumpet Guild.