Information About Evan - Chesham teacher

Personal Description:

I am an English teacher and musician with over 30 years of experience as a trumpet player. My training was in Canada at McGill University and in Chicago at Northwestern University where I studied with the internationally respected brass teacher Vincent Cichowicz. I have also studied with Jens Lindemann, Douglas Sturdevant and Charles Daval and Arnold Jacobs. My own professional experience included playing principal trumpet in the Ottawa Symphony for 6 years, and as a freelance musician, performing with the National Arts Centre Orchestra, the Orchestre Symphiique de Quebec, and Orchestre Métropolitain in Montreal under Yannick Nezet-Seguin. I also played frequently in a variety of chamber music groups. As a student in Chicago I won a position in the Chicago Civic Youth Orchestra.
In England I have played in several first section brass bands and amateur orchestras, having left the professional world of trumpet playing behind me. I currently play in two London amateur orchestras as principal trumpet and second trumpet and perform regularly. While I no longer get paid to play trumpet I find my love for playing and my ability is the same as when I was playing professionally.

Tutoring Experience:

I have taught trumpet lessons privately for many years, as well as holding positions at two universities, Queen’s University in Canada, and SUNY Potsdam in New York State. I have done many master classes and workshops including working with high school students and at summer music camps. I have former students who know play professionally. Since moving to England I have been an English teacher at a large London comprehensive, but I have done some trumpet teaching to students who are interested.

Tutoring Approach:

I put fun and enjoyment first, but also teach the most efficient and easy physical approach to the instrument. With brass playing we must combine a clear musical picture in our brains with the right kind of physical input. I suppose in my own playing I have had to overcome many obstacles, not being a ‘natural’ player. As a result, I can diagnose problems in technique and help players overcome these physical limitations. I have a very sound understanding of the physical demands of trumpet and cornet playing and have been able to help students make excellent progress. I can help players develop a routine and can offer a lot of advice to help musicians learn how to improve their practise habits.