Teaching Philosophy
When teaching, I make it my mission to fully prepare my students for any musical experience they may encounter. My teaching not only includes the creation of a strong foundation of trumpet fundamentals and technique, but also the creation of musical awareness, music theory, how to practice, a little music business and much more. Learning how to practice is an important concept because a student may at most have a lesson once a week. That being said, a majority of one's growth occurs during personal practice. It is my job to present a variety of musical tools to my students so when a problem presents itself, they are able to address the problem, attack it from many angles, and ultimately fix the problem on their own.
Equally as important as strong trumpet fundamentals and technique is the ability to produce a beautiful tone and beautiful music, which is more than ink on a page. Listening is an important factor behind this concept, and through listening musical concepts such as phrasing, style, emotional connections and interpretations begin to present themselves.
Throughout this entire process, I acknowledge that music should be enjoyable and students should be able to play the music that they love. And while it may seem like hard work at first, the trumpet is easy, and it all begins with a nice, relaxed breath.
Equally as important as strong trumpet fundamentals and technique is the ability to produce a beautiful tone and beautiful music, which is more than ink on a page. Listening is an important factor behind this concept, and through listening musical concepts such as phrasing, style, emotional connections and interpretations begin to present themselves.
Throughout this entire process, I acknowledge that music should be enjoyable and students should be able to play the music that they love. And while it may seem like hard work at first, the trumpet is easy, and it all begins with a nice, relaxed breath.
Testimonial
"Although I was self-taught on trumpet, I showed early promise, soloing with a big band in college and later playing with the First Marine Division Band. Later, as I focused on a career in journalism, my playing lapsed into mediocrity. My range, tone and tempo all retreated, along with self-confidence. Various would-be instructors weren’t helpful. I was struggling in a New Horizons seniors band in 2014 when Tyler Graves, a recent Masters graduate from Miami University, was recruited as a sectional instructor. His artistry as a performer and his love of teaching were so obvious that the entire trumpet section quickly signed on for private lessons to supplement our group sessions."
"As a teacher, Tyler conveys a maturity well beyond his years. His group lessons zero in on our trumpet section’s shortcomings and his clear explanations, communicate, without personal criticism, what is needed to improve. My personal lessons have paid off as well, despite our age difference (I am nearly 80). He understands which exercises or arrangements will be most helpful as I regain skills and confidence. After only a few months studying with Tyler, I am again playing music I haven’t played for years – everything from Arban etudes to bop duets. So I am pleased to share my praise of his teaching skills as well as his own virtuosity on the horn."
"As a teacher, Tyler conveys a maturity well beyond his years. His group lessons zero in on our trumpet section’s shortcomings and his clear explanations, communicate, without personal criticism, what is needed to improve. My personal lessons have paid off as well, despite our age difference (I am nearly 80). He understands which exercises or arrangements will be most helpful as I regain skills and confidence. After only a few months studying with Tyler, I am again playing music I haven’t played for years – everything from Arban etudes to bop duets. So I am pleased to share my praise of his teaching skills as well as his own virtuosity on the horn."
Don Bedwell ('14)