The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast

🎧 Episode Summary:In this episode of “The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast”, I explore the emotional “colors” of chords—major, minor, diminished, and augmented. Learn how to hear each chord by its intervals and emotional quality. A perfect guide for trumpet players building their ear training skills! 🧠 Key Topics: Major chords: bright and happy (C–E–G) Minor chords: introspective and cool (C–Eb–G) Diminished chords: tense and spooky (C–Eb–Gb) Augmented chords: dreamy and mysterious (C–E–G#) Importance of recognizing major and minor 3rds 📌 Previous Episode Reference:Be sure to revisit the last episode (JLTP 058-) where we covered interval recognition by ear—it’s foundational for today’s content! You can find Episode 58 here; https://www.jefflewistrumpet.com/jltp-058-music-theory-basics-part-1-intervals/ 🎺 Practice Challenge:Build and compare C major, minor, diminished, and augmented chords. Notice the emotional difference. ✅Subscribe to my newsletter and receive my free ebook “11 Scales For Jazz Improvisation”; https://jefflewistrumpet.us14.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=9f983684beb3f44b8e9335b5a&id=68f0f3e626

In Episode 58 of “The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast”, I break down one of the most essential skills for any trumpet player or musician—how to recognize musical intervals by ear, eye, and on your instrument. Learn how intervals work, why they matter, and how to identify them using classic songs, piano examples, and trumpet-focused exercises that will strengthen your ear, improve your improvisation, and sharpen your reading. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned brass player, this episode will help you level up your musicianship. Be sure to stick around till the end so you can test your ear and try to identify the interval examples! In this episode, you will learn; 🎵 What musical intervals are and why they’re essential for trumpet players 👂 How to recognize intervals by ear using well-known songs 🎹 How to hear and visualize intervals on piano and apply them to trumpet 🎺 How different intervals feel on the trumpet in terms of valve combinations and embouchure 🎶 Song examples that help lock in each interval (e.g., “Jaws” for minor 2nd, “Happy Birthday” for major 2nd) 🎧 Ear training tips and tricks to improve your listening and transcribing skills 🗣️ The power of singing intervals to internalize them before playing ✅Subscribe to my newsletter and receive my free ebook “11 Scales For Jazz Improvisation”; https://jefflewistrumpet.us14.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=9f983684beb3f44b8e9335b5a&id=68f0f3e626 ✅Patreon; https://www.patreon.com/JeffLewisTrumpet ✅Website; https://www.JeffLewisTrumpet.com    

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I discuss an easy way to develop your sound by using rhythmic variety in your solos. In this particular episode, you will learn; How to play 2, 3, and 4 note phrases How to create rhythmic variety using short phrases How to use chord tones to build harmonic clarity Items mentioned in this podcast; Blue Mitchell’s solo on “I’ll Close My Eyes” Parts 1 and 2 from this Basic Improv series Louis Armstrong’s version of Dinah on YouTube, where he uses a two-note “theme” to develop an entire solo; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhVdLd43bDI My Descending Dominant 7 chord play-along track on YouTube; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HH7SjaYlOUg

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I review the importance of the ii V I chord progression, how to apply scales to that progression, and an easy ii V I lick in all 12 keys. Stick around until the end of the podcast, grab your horn, and let’s trade 4’s in the Key of C! In this particular episode, you will learn; The notes in a ii V I chord progression in C Major and the scales that go with the chords Dorian and Mixolydian modes in C An easy “short” ii V I lick in C What a digital pattern is An easy ii V I lick in all 12 keys   Patreon; https://www.patreon.com/JeffLewisTrumpet Website; https://www.JeffLewisTrumpet.com Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/JeffLewisTrumpet/ Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/jefflewis6519/ Podcast on iTunes; https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-lewis-trumpet-podcast/id1333984769?mt=2&at=1000lHQ6

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over how to improvise over the jazz classic “Blue Bossa” for beginning, intermediate, and advanced players. In this episode you will learn; Three different levels of improvisation from beginning to advanced Which scales to use over all of the chords from easy to difficult Melodic minor, harmonic minor, diminished, and altered scale harmony Download the free color-coded PDFs for all instruments below and follow along with the podcast.

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I break down the essentials of jazz improvisation starting with the foundation, learning scales. Part 1: The Foundation – Learning Scales To start with jazz improvisation, you must first be comfortable with your scales. Jazz relies heavily on modes, especially the **Major Scale**, **Natural Minor Scale (Aeolian mode)**, and the **Blues Scale**. If you’re just starting, the **C major scale** is a great place to begin, as it has no sharps or flats. Pick up your trumpet and play the C major scale. Here’s the pattern:  **C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C** Be sure to practice independently with the backing tracks I have provided for all my podcast listeners. Here are all the scales used in this podcast C Major play-along https://www.jefflewistrumpet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/C-Major-Play-Along.wav Once you’re comfortable, you can move on to the **C minor scale**: **C, D, E-flat, F, G, A-flat, B-flat, C** This is an E flat, major scale starting from C, otherwise known as the C natural minor scale or the Aeolian mode. Now practice improvising in C minor. C minor play-along https://www.jefflewistrumpet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/C-Minor-Play-Along.wav Now let’s trade fours in the key of C Minor And finally, try the **C blues scale**, which is very important in jazz: – **C, E-flat, F, G-flat, G, B-flat, C** Practice improvising only using the blues scale over this 12-bar blues. 12-bar blues in C https://www.jefflewistrumpet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Blues-Simple.wav   These scales provide the groundwork for your improvisation, so practice them slowly at first, then increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

In this episode of “The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast”, I review the benefits of a 10-minute practice session. In this particular episode, you will learn; The benefits of practicing short 10-minute sessions at a time What and how to practice for 10 minutes Why resting as much as you play is important Download the free PDF of the “10 Minute Practice Session” here; You can also use my YouTube video in your warm-up session for mouthpiece buzzing and free lip buzzing here; Trumpet lip and mouthpiece buzzing exercise #1 Other books mentioned in this podcast that you can use to practice your fundamentals during your 10-minute practice session; “27 Groups of Exercises” by Earl Irons “Advanced Lip Flexibilities” by Charles Colin “Arbans Complete Method for Trumpet” by John Baptiste Arban “Daily Drills for Trumpet” by Max Schlossberg DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, meaning I’ll receive a small commission if you click on one of the product links. It will not cost you more money, but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!                

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over how to improvise over the A section of the jazz classic “All The Things You Are”. In this particular episode, you will learn; What scales to use over the A section A scale “workout’ to become familiar with improvising use the notes from the two scales Harmonic generalization If you want more tutorials, PDF worksheets, in-depth analysis of ii V I chord progressions, jazz play-alongs, how to improvise on “All The Things You Are”, and more, check out my NEW Patreon channel here; https://www.patreon.com/JeffLewisTrumpet Use this color-coded free PDF to follow along; Use this scale workout sheet to become more familiar with improvising in these two keys; Listen to my solo on YouTube on “All The Things You Are” and download the free PDF here;  

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over how to practice ii-V7-I Licks. In this particular episode, you will learn; What a ii-V7-I lick is Why they are important How to practice ii-V7-I licks An easy ii-V7-I lick to play in all 12 keys Download the Easy ii-V7-I Lick here; My favorite ii-V7-I books for practicing licks in all 12 keys; Jamey Aebersold, Volume 3, The ii-V7-I Chord Progression Melodic Shapes for the Modern Improvisor Hip Licks for Trumpet by Greg Fishman DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allow me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over how to improvise on the Henry Mancini classic “Pink Panther”. This is the solo section only.  It can be found in the second trumpet part in the Big Band composition and arrangement by Henry Mancini.  Be sure to stick around to the end, grab your horn, and let’s trade 2 and 4-measure phrases. Download the companion PDF “cheat sheet”  with the color-coded scales and chords here; “Pink Panther” color-coded PDF YouTube play-along/backing track for “Pink Panther” I use the Jo-Ral copper bubble Harmon mute for this recording. DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!  

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about my thoughts on the jaw position when playing the trumpet and how the Cat Anderson “whisper G” may help with jaw awareness, endurance, range, and overall sound.  In this particular episode, you will learn; The importance of jaw position when playing the trumpet and how it affects range and sound. My take on the Cat Anderson whisper G. An example of me playing the whisper G. Common problems when trying to play the whisper G when first starting out. How practicing the whisper G may increase jaw awareness, embouchure placement, lip placement, and may have an overall positive effect on your playing. Items mentioned in this podcast; The Real Way To Play The Cat Anderson Trumpet Method by Geoff Winstead DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!    

In this episode of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about my embouchure change journey, the resources I used, and a few tips on how to physically and mentally prepare yourself for what to expect. In this episode you will learn; The difference between an embouchure change and an embouchure adjustment How to mentally prepare for a change Resources to help you unlock the key to your best embouchure Items mentioned in this podcast; “The Art of Brass Playing” by Phillip Farkas The Encyclopedia of the Pivot System by Dr. Donald Reinhardt The Pivot System by Donald Reinhardt The Balanced Embouchure by Jeff Smiley Embouchure Self-Analysis The Stevens-Costello Embouchure Technique (Complete): William Moriarity The Real Way to Play the Cat Anderson Trumpet Method by Geoffv Winstead DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over an easy way to improvise over the Miles Davis jazz classic “Four”. Items mentioned in this podcast (click the descriptions for access); “Major Scale Patterns for Jazz Improvisation” (Free version in C only) “Major Scale Patterns for Jazz Improvisation” (In all 12 keys) My jazz play-along/backing track for “Four” on YouTube In this particular episode, you will learn; The form The key centers An easy way to navigate the chord changes Which 4 major scales to use for improvising over the tune Download the free PDF for the “Four” tutorial here        

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over what to practice and how long to practice each topic in order to improve your improvisational skills. In this episode, you will learn; What types of scales to practice for maximum improvement. 4 things to practice to improve your improvisational skills. Multiple jazz resources. Items mentioned in this podcast; Jamey Aebersold Volume 3 The ii V I progression Melodic Shapes for The Modern Improviser The Jazz Theory Book by Mark Levine Items mentioned in this podcast from my website; Jazz Trumpet transcriptions Jazz Licks in 12 Keys DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!    

In this episode of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over the “Kansas City” blues scale, how to use it, and how it differs from the regular blues scale. The Blues Shuffle in Bb Concert play-along used in this podcast is available on YouTube here. In this particular episode, you will learn; What a Kansas City Blues scale is 10 short phrases, or “licks”, you can play over a blues How the Kansas City differs from the “regular” blues scale Listen till the end, then grab your horn and play along using all of these “riffs” to create your own melodies.  Use the two blue scales and 10 “licks” provided for you with the free PDF located below. Download 10 “Kansas City” blues licks here.

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over different ways of adjusting your embouchure for maximum sound and efficiency, how to be your own best trumpet teacher and a list of suggested books for embouchure development. In this podcast you will learn; Different ways to adjust your embouchure for better sound and efficiency through self-analysis and micro-adjusting List of potentially helpful books, methods,  and systems for improving range, endurance, and sound. Links and suggested books mentioned in this podcast; “The Balanced Embouchure by Jeff Smiley” trumpetteacher.net “Embouchure Self-Analysis The Stevens-Costello Embouchure Technique” Roy Stevens Tribute site; RoyStevens.org “The encyclopedia of the pivot system” by Dr. Donald Reinhardt “The art of brass playing” by Philip Farkas “The buzzing book” by James Thompson “The real way to play the cat Anderson method” by Geoff Winstead “Musical calisthenics for brass” by Carmine Caruso “Flexus: musical calisthenics for the modern improviser” by Laurie Frink and John McNeil “Systematic approach to daily practice” by Claude Gordon “Warm-Ups and Studies” by James Stamp “The original Louis Maggio system for brass” by Carlton Macbeth DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!  

In this episode of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about how using major scale modes to improvise can be an easy way to navigate through many different chord types. In this episode you will learn; What the seven major scale modes are An easy way to remember all seven modes How to apply the major scale modes to multiple types of chords Why using modes to improvise is an easy way to start “playing the changes” like a pro Items mentioned in this podcast; “The Jazz Theory Book” by Mark Levine (the best jazz theory book in my opinion) Use my YouTube backing track for all 12 minor seven chords and start improvising today. DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over Chet Baker’s jazz lick on his rendition of “I’ll Remember April”. Download the free PDF of Chet Baker’s jazz lick in all 12 keys here In this particular episode, you will learn; How to swing like Chet Baker How to analyze this solo How to approach practicing jazz licks in all 12 keys Why this solo sounds so great I use software called “Transcribe” (not free) on my laptop and “Anytune” (free version) on my iPhone to transcribe solos and tunes.  

In this session of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over how to improvise on the jazz standard “I’ll Remember April” using six different major scales.  I also discuss chord theory, scale analysis, and modes used for improvisation. In this particular episode, you will learn; The six major scales you can use to improvise over the entire song. How using major scale modes is one of the easiest ways to navigate jazz theory and chord changes. What Dorian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, and Locrian scale modes are. An easy way to practice jazz improvisation if you are just starting, or a grizzled veteran! For maximum benefit, download the FREE worksheet to podcast 041 and follow along here;   Download my FREE ebook “Major Scale Patterns for Jazz Improvisation” in the key of C here You can use these patterns to play over the Bridge section to “I’ll Remember April”. My YouTube play-along for “I’ll Remember April” (created with Band In A Box) Get this edition of “The Bb Real Book” (in trumpet, tenor, and clarinet key) that contains “I’ll Remember April” and many other jazz standards here.   DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this session of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I review the third step on navigating through minor iib5-V7b9-i chord changes using three different scales. My YouTube tutorial on “Diminished scales and Theory” My YouTube Play-along for “Minor iib5-V7b9-i Chord Changes in All 12 Keys”. Download the free PDFs for “harmonic minor scales” and ” ii7b5-V7b9-i Pattern #3 Locrian/Diminished/Dorian”. In this particular episode, you will learn; What a Locrian scale is and how to use it over the iib5 chord. How to use a half step/whole step diminished scale over the V7b9 chord. How to use the Dorian scale over the minor i chord. An “easy” iib5-V7b9-i jazz lick in all 12 keys.      

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about an easy way to navigate through a minor ii7b5-V7b9-i chord progression using two scales. Download Step 1 one of the three-part series here; JLTP 039: ii7b5-V7b9-i Chords/Three Levels of Improvisation (Step 1) In this particular episode, you will learn; What a harmonic minor scale is An easy way to memorize your harmonic minor scales What a Dorian minor scale is and how to apply it to a minor 1 chord An easy ii-V7b9-i lick in all 12 keys based on these two scales Download the free harmonic minor and minor ii-V7-i lick here; Harmonic minor scales       ii7b5-V7b9-i Lick  

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about the three levels of improvisation in regards to minor ii7b9 V7b9 i chord progressions. In this podcast episode, you will learn; What a minor ii V I chord progression is. How using the relative Major scale is an easy way to improvise over all 3 chord changes. Why the Major scale works on all three chords. An easy minor ii V i jazz “lick” to practice in all 12 keys. Items mentioned in this podcast; “Major Scale Patterns for Jazz Improvisation” FREE! (Key of C only) “Major Scale Patterns for Jazz Improvisation” (All 12 Keys) Play along for the minor ii V I lick (in concert pitch) https://youtu.be/y1PLPPnZG68 DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over the different scales and chords you can use to improvise over the George Gershwin classic “Summertime”. Items mentioned in this podcast; Drum Genius Mark Levine Jazz Theory Book Major Scale Patterns For Jazz Improvisation E-Book In this particular episode, you will learn; The four scales you can use to improvise over “Summertime” Scale patterns you can use to easily navigate through the chord changes What a half step/whole step diminished scale is and where to use it How you can navigate through major and minor ii V7 I chord changes using multiple scales or only one scale Download the “Summertime” cheat sheet here https://youtu.be/OrGTnNqw_l0 Download my trumpet solo over “Summertime” here https://youtu.be/_Rxp6wO7U1E DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!  

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, you will warm up along with me on your trumpet.  Be sure to download the free PDF of all of the exercises here; www.jefflewistrumpet.com/warm-up-with-me/ Items mentioned in this podcast; Max Schlossberg’s “daily drills and technical studies for trumpet” In this particular episode, you will learn; The exercises I use to warm up The importance of resting as much as you play when warming up A quick, 10 minute warm-up, including rests. My YouTube videos on lip and mouthpiece buzzing warm ups for trumpet My YouTube videos on Trumpet Warm-Ups DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!        

In this podcast, I talk about my lessons with Claude Gordon and offer some tips on how to navigate this 52-week trumpet course written by Claude entitled “The Systematic Approach To Daily Practice”. In this particular episode, you will learn; How to use the pedal note exercises found in the warm-up and range exercises. The other books used in his method. What “anchor” tonguing is and how to apply it to the trumpet. All the mistakes I made as a youngster playing through “The Systematic Approach”. Tips on how to approach Claude’s method. Items mentioned in this podcast; Claude Gordon’s “Systematic Approach to Daily Practice for Trumpet” Clarke’s Technical Studies for Trumpet Clarkes Characteristic studies for trumpet Lip Flexibility on the Cornet or Trumpet by Walter M. Smith St. Jacome’s Method for Trumpet or Cornet Lip Flexibilities for Trumpet by Charles Colin Arban’s Method for Trumpet JeffLewisTrumpet.com My new course website featuring two free Jazz courses; MyOnlineMusicClass.com  

 In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, we talk to trumpet player and educator James Blackwell.  James is a GRAMMY award-winning trumpet player for his work on the jazz albums of Clare Fischer, Bob Mintzer, and the University of North Texas One O’clock Lab Band.  Apart from his work as a jazz lead player, James has performed as the lead trumpet player with the Brian Setzer Orchestra since 2012. You can also hear James as the featured soloist to the theme song from Amazon Prime’s hit show, “Bosch.” In this particular episode, you will learn: About James’ experience at UNT. About his embouchure change and what he did to fix it. His ear-training course for trumpet players. How to practice using his lead trumpet book. Lead trumpet playing. General fun trumpet “hang” stuff! Links; James Blackwells website James’ Ear Training Course James’ Lead Trumpet Transcription Book Items mentioned in this podcast; The Complete Shuebruk Lip Trainers for Trumpet Effortless Mastery: Liberating the Master Musician Within The Art of Brass Playing by Philip Farkas Reinhardt’s “Pivot System for Trumpet” DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for your support!    

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about how finding a mentor can greatly increase your chances of success as a trumpet player. In this particular episode, you will learn; The differences between a mentor and a teacher How asking the right questions can jump start your trumpet progress Tips on how to find the best teacher How now is the best time to study with anyone from around the world! Subscribe to the “Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast” on iTunes here; https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-lewis-trumpet-podcast/id1333984769?mt=2&at=1000lHQ6

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about what my trumpet goals are for 2021, how I plan on implementing them, and how this may help you in coming up with a plan for improving your playing as well. In this particular episode, you will learn; How practicing first thing in the morning can be your key to improving fast How to organize your practice session How I organize my 3-hour practice session How to organize a 1hour practice session Suggestions on what to practice What practice books I use What my jazz practice session consists of My favorite organizing tool Items mentioned in this podcast The Productivity Planner Max Schlossberg Daily Drills The Allen Vizzutti Trumpet Method Book 1 Technical Studies 27 Groups of Exercises for Trumpet by Earl D. Irons Melodious Etudes for Trombone (Bass Clef) Melodious Etudes for Trumpet (Treble Clef) Advanced Lip Flexibilities for Trumpet by Charles Colin James Stamp Warm-ups and Studies for Trumpet Sign up for my newsletter and receive “11 Scales for Jazz Improvisation” for free!   DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for your support!

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about how learning the lyrics of a song will help you become a better musician. In this particular episode, you will learn; Why it’s important to learn the lyrics of a song Who to listen to for melodic interpretation How learning different versions of songs can help you learn in multiple keys Why learning the lyrics can help you with song form and melody memorization The Real Book, Vol. 1, Low Voice The Real Vocal Book – Volume I Songbook: High Voice The Real Christmas Book: C Edition Includes Lyrics! DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for your support!

In this session of The Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over how I use a trumpet journal to be more efficient and organized about my daily practice. Downloadable Trumpet Practice Log available for free here In this particular episode, you will learn; The benefits of keeping a trumpet practice journal/diary/log How to keep a journal How to organize your daily practice routine for maximum efficiency How long your individual practice sessions should be What to practice in each individual session Items mentioned in this podcast and an essential library for all trumpet players; Technical Studies for Trumpet by Herbert L. Clarke 27 Groups of Exercises by Earl Irons Advanced Lip Flexibities for Trumpet by Charles Colin The Arbans Complete Method for Trumpet The Allen Vizzutti Trumpet Method Book 1 Lip Flexibilities for Trumpet by Bai Lin Daily drills and Technical Studies for Trumpet by Max Schlossberg DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for your support!

In this session of the Jeff Lewis tropic podcast, I show you how to play “outside” of the chord changes using a mode of the melodic minor scale. In this particular episode you will learn; What a “jazz” melodic minor scale is. What an altered scale is What a super locrian scale is What a diminished whole tone scale is What chords to use the altered scale over to play outside Four scales you should know for jazz improvisation Jazz lick in all 12 keys using the altered scale mentioned in this podcast.  The “Cry Me A River Lick” in all 12 keys  

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I go over the two types of diminished scales for improvisation, how to learn them, and how to apply them. In this episode, you will learn; The two types of diminished scales for improvisation What a diminished chord is How to practice diminished scales How to apply diminished scales to chords Items and links mentioned in this podcast; The Jazz Theory Book by Mark Levine 4 Scales You Need To Know for Jazz Improvisation DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for your support!

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about the concept of delayed gratification when it comes to improvement while practicing your trumpet. In this episode, I talk about; My experience with the Carmine Caruso method Why I keep a trumpet journal The concept of how long it takes to improve on the trumpet How trumpet playing can be frustrating because it takes so long to improve New, free, lip and mouthpiece buzzing exercises; https://www.jefflewistrumpet.com/lip-buzzing-exercise/ https://youtu.be/7ZdWvVZgmsw Website; https://www.JeffLewisTrumpet.com Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/JeffLewisTrumpet/ Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/jefflewis6519/ Twitter; https://twitter.com/JLewisTrumpet Podcast on iTunes; https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-lewis-trumpet-podcast/id1333984769?mt=2&at=1000lHQ6 Podcast on Google Play; https://play.google.com/music/m/Ijx7f6cf7ftaea7ffawmlt7r6wq?t=The_Jeff_Lewis_Trumpet_Podcast    

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about the benefits of lip buzzing, how it can lead to proper lip and playing formation, and how it can cure the problem of puffy cheeks when playing. Also, I go over a free lip buzzing exercise and play along (which can also be played on the mouthpiece) available on my website. Download the free pdf of the “Lip Buzzing Exercise” and free play-a-long track here; https://www.jefflewistrumpet.com/lip-buzzing-exercise/ Lip buzzing tutorial on YouTube; https://youtu.be/7ZdWvVZgmsw https://youtu.be/2lFhRBYAU0c Items mentioned in this podcast James Stamp Warm Ups and Studies for Trumpet The Art of Brass Playing by Philip Farkas Podcast on iTunes; https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-lewis-trumpet-podcast/id1333984769?mt=2&at=1000lHQ6 Podcast on Google Play; https://play.google.com/music/m/Ijx7f6cf7ftaea7ffawmlt7r6wq?t=The_Jeff_Lewis_Trumpet_Podcast DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for your support!

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast, I talk about the concept of quality practice over quantity and paying attention to not only the musical aspects of your playing but also the physical. In this particular episode you will learn; How practicing longer is not always better. How to pay attention to the physical aspects of your playing in order to manipulate your sound. Staying engaged during your practice session and not “going through the motions”. The concept of quality over quantity. Website; https://www.JeffLewisTrumpet.com Facebook; https://www.facebook.com/JeffLewisTrumpet/ Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/jefflewis6519/ Twitter; https://twitter.com/JLewisTrumpet Podcast on iTunes; https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-jeff-lewis-trumpet-podcast/id1333984769?mt=2&at=1000lHQ6 Podcast on Google Play; https://play.google.com/music/m/Ijx7f6cf7ftaea7ffawmlt7r6wq?t=The_Jeff_Lewis_Trumpet_Podcast

In this podcast, I talk about 5 easy jazz standards you can learn to practice jazz improvisation if you are just starting out. Links mentioned in this podcast; “Listen, Sing, Play”, a free ebook on how to learn a song by ear. “Playing The Changes”, an easy step by step guide to playing Miles Davis’ jazz standard “Solar”. “The Real Book, Sixth Edition (in Bb)”, contains 400 jazz standards. “Maiden Voyage: Fourteen Easy-to-play Jazz Tunes (Play-Along, Volume 54)” Great book for learning easy  jazz standards in all keys. DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for your support!

Learn how to improvise over a Jazz Standard. New companion eBook for this episode  “Playing The Changes-for Trumpet” In this episode, you will learn; A step by step guide on how to learn a jazz standard How to use the I Real Pro app to help you learn jazz standards Scale patterns that will help you improvise What “Harmonic generalization” is and how to use it to simplify the jazz improvisation process  

In this session, I talk about how to improve your trumpet playing by resting more frequently in between your practice sessions. 27 Groups of Exercises for Trumpet by Earl D. Irons Warm-ups & Studies for Trumpet and Other Brass Instruments by James Stamp In this episode I offer suggestions on; How to not practice “tired” How to rest as much as you play How to use your rest time efficiently by practicing fingering or reading/watching music videos and tutorials. The importance of resting in order to build trumpet endurance rather than tear down DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for your support!

In this podcast I go over what sus, or suspended,  (D9sus, etc.) chords are and how to improvise over them using major pentatonic scales. Links; Pentatonic scale worksheet pdf Easy Jazz Trumpet solo using pentatonic scales pdf YouTube play along used in this podcast Easy Jazz Trumpet solo play along on YouTube Free ebook “11 Scales for Jazz Improvisation” with all pentatonic scales used in this podcast In this episode you will learn What dominant 7 sus and dominant 9 sus chords are How to voice dominant sus chords on the piano How to improvise over dominant sus chords using pentatonic scales Examples of me improvising over sus chords using pentatonic scales

In this session of the Jeff Lewis Trumpet Podcast I talk about how to practice improvising by playing and practicing only the chord tones first. Items mentioned in this podcast; “20 Steps To Better Jazz Improvisation for Trumpet” I Real Pro play along app In this episode you will learn A step by step process on how to learn new tunes Playing and memorizing chord changes How to practice improvising Subscribe to my newsletter/email list here      

This episode is about how to use altered scales for jazz improvisation. Items mentioned in this podcast; The Jazz Theory Book by Mark Levine In this episode you will learn; What an altered scale is How to apply altered scales What chords to use the altered scale over Why altered scales are simply jazz melodic minor scales (locrian mode) DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!  

How I learn jazz songs, and other genres, by ear, step by step. Download the FREE companion ebook to this podcast “Listen, Sing, Play” here! “The Jazz Theory Book” by Mark Levine “The Jazz Piano Book” by Mark Levine In this episode you will learn: How to identify the roots of the chord by ear How the melody of a song can help you determine chord quality and function How to use guide tones to help determine chord quality The steps used, in order, to learn jazz songs DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!    

In this podcast I discuss the seven major scale modes that can be used for jazz improvisation. Links; JLTP 014 natural minor scales (Aeolian mode) Items mentioned in this podcast The Mark Levine Jazz Theory Book The Mark Levine Jazz Piano Book In this episode, you will learn; The 7 major scale modes The chords that are associated with those modes How to apply the appropriate scale mode to the chord DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this session I talk about what you can do to practice the important things first before you run out of chops and get too tired. In this episode you will learn; How to set up your practice session for success How to pace yourself How long to practice What to practice first, before you start getting tired Items mentioned in this podcast; Arbans Complete Conservatory Method for Trumpet H.L. Clarke; Technical studies for the cornet or trumpet 27 Groups of exercises for trumpet or cornet  by Earl D. Irons Avanced Lip Flexabilities for trumpet by Charles Colin Audition and Performance preparation for Trumpet, Orchestral literature Studies Volumes 1-4 DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this episode I go over four tips on how to improve your jazz improvisation skills;  Major. melodic minor, diminished, and whole tone scales and scale patterns.  Learning jazz repertoire  Playing licks/tunes in 12 keys  Transcribing Items mentioned in this podcast The Real Book, 6th Edition in Bb Major Scale Patterns for Jazz Improvisation Tune Up-Miles Davis Quartet Solar- Miles Davis All Stars Lady Bird-Fats Navarro and Tadd Dameron I Real Pro app DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

How to learn and memorize your natural minor scales using the sixth mode of the major scale (the aeolian mode).  This is assuming you have all 12 major scales memorized first. In this episode you will learn; what a natural minor scale is the sixth mode of the major scale or aeolian mode. how to think of a natural minor scale how to not memorize scales using only fingering patterns

In this podcast I talk about 15 trumpet embouchure “tweaks” you can apply for better trumpet playing. 1. Faster air!!! 2. Lips rolled in (closed aperture) 3. Lips rolled out (open aperture) 4. Bottom jaw forward 5. Bottom teeth and top teeth aligned evenly 6. Teeth gap (space between top and bottom teeth) 7. Mouthpiece placed left or right of center 8. Mouthpiece placed lower or higher on the lips. 9. Lips wet or dry or both 10. Loose lips evenly displaced from left to right 11. Bunch lips forward or in the center 12. Horn tilt 13. Grip 14. Mouthpiece pressure 15. Tongue level (arch) 16.. Does it sound good? Does it feel good? Does it look good? Items mentioned in this podcast; The Real Way To Play The Cat Anderson Method Embouchure Self-Analysis The Stevens-Costello Embouchure Technique (Complete):  The Balanced Embouchure by Jeff Smiley DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this podcast I talk about using the resource website imslp.org to download the “Arbans Method for Trumpet” (for free!) and how I like to practice certain exercises in a particular order. Links; imslp.org JeffLewisTrumpet.com Items mentioned in this podcast; Arban Complete Conservatory Method for Trumpet (New Authentic Edition with Accompaniment and Performance tracks) In this episode you will learn; How to use the Arbans book for daily practice What order to play the exercises in Free lesson with page and exercise numbers DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!

In this podcast I talk about what didn’t work for me in 2018 and what my trumpet related goals are for 2019. Items mentioned in this podcast; The Daily Practice Log “The Real Way To Play The Cat Anderson Method” trumpet book DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. It will not cost you more money but it will support the channel and allows me to continue to make podcasts like this. Thank you for the support!  

In this session I talk about how we really teach ourselves how to play the trumpet by using self analysis and trial and error and I also include some common misconceptions.