From Print Shop to Publishing Method Books: Chris Gekker on Teaching, Trumpet and Life Balance
**This is a replay of an interview recorded in the summer of 2021.**
In this episode, James interviews Chris Gekker, prolific publisher of method books, professor of trumpet at the University of Maryland, and one of the busiest performing artists on the planet.
Chris talks extensively about his career, his experiences during the pandemic, and his perspective on live versus online music. He shares anecdotes from his early (non-musical) life, his passion for both classical and jazz music, and his transition from a symphony career to a teaching role.
He also provides insights on the physical demands of playing the trumpet and his thoughts on the future of his musical endeavors.
Episode highlights:
00:35 Pandemic Challenges and Adaptations
02:24 Return to Live Performances
06:15 Chris Gekker’s Early Life and Musical Beginnings
08:45 Journey Through Education and Early Career
13:53 Transition to Teaching and Writing
17:05 Insights on Trumpet Playing and Method Books
26:01 The Challenges of Playing Trumpet
26:24 Physical Strain and Injuries
27:41 The Unique Demands of High Note Trumpeting
28:42 Hearing Loss and Its Impact
30:00 Transitioning from Theater Work
30:22 The Importance of Jazz
32:19 The Evolution of Jazz Education
38:31 Preparing for Solo Recordings
41:47 Balancing Serious and Popular Music
44:55 The Physical Demands of Trumpet Playing
47:47 Concluding Thoughts
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