Thompson, James -- The Buzzing Book

Thompson, James -- The Buzzing Book

James Thompson (*1949 in Frankfurt, Germany) studied trumpet with Richard Longfield (Phoenix, USA), Ray Lichtenwalter (Interlochen Arts Academy) and finally, with Roger Voisin (New England Conservatory, Boston, 1967-70). After a distinguished career as principal trumpeter with several orchestras including Montréal and Atlanta, James Thompson, laureate of the 1979 Maurice André International Competition in Paris, also enjoys a career as a soloist.

As principal trumpeter he has recorded over 80 CDs. Professor of trumpet at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY since 1998, James Thompson is considered one of today’s grand masters of trumpet pedagogy.

Buzzing on the mouthpiece has many benefits if done with a systematic and observant approach. Because the mouthpiece offers less resistance than does the instrument, buzzing helps accustom the player to using more air.

This greater airflow helps let the lips relax and vibrate more freely, producing a more resonant sound. It also makes the player more reliant on his ear to place pitches, just as a singer does.

Further, it aids in developing the most efficient and consistent mouthpiece placement. Finally, perhaps most importantly, mouthpiece buzzing allows the player to develop new and more refined aural/physical habits more easily.