It’s time to catch up and post on WordPress!  Since last I wrote, I have been playing gigs and teaching trumpet to young students.  I also spent some time studying the Roy Stevens method of trumpet performance.  This new method makes it possible for me to play high notes…something I have wanted to do for some time.  For any trumpeters who may be reading this,  you can learn about Roy Stevens and his embouchure technique at the website http://www.roystevens.org and actually purchase his book:

on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1469955911/ref=rdr_ext_tmb

In addition, I am studying Music Recording Technology at the Loudoun Campus of  Northern Virginia Community College (known as NOVA).

Photo Credit:  http://www.loudountimes.com/news/article/new_higher_education_center_opens_at_novas_loudoun_campus123

The Higher Education Center at NOVA’s Loudoun Campus opened in late 2015 and  includes a state-of-the-art recording studio for the Music Recording Technology program.

The studio contains a industry standard Solid State Logic (SSL) console, the AWS delta 948.  The console records in high definition to digital audio workstations. Classic studio microphones used in conjunction with state-of-the-art outboard equipment provide hands-on experience with equipment one is likely to see in music recording .

Photo credit:  http://vintageking.com/ssl-aws-948-delta

I have been interested in studio recording for a long time.  It’s hard to remember a time when I was not listening to Wayne Bergeron’s recordings.  I have developed a profound respect for recording engineers as they must understand technology and music (and musicians!)   The following photos are from Wayne Bergeron’s website:  https://www.waynebergeron.com/studio-sessions-gallery

All this proves that STEM education is important for musicians!   Case in point, last October (2016) Loudoun County StemDay was hosted at NOVA and included demonstrations of the

Recording Studio (below).  http://www.locostemday.com/stem-day-2016