Teaching Philosophy

The purpose of my teaching is to share the musical knowledge and passion I’ve gained over the years with students eager to learn. I reference books, methods, and techniques learned from my own teachers while incorporating my personal experience as a musician. Trumpet lessons are offered to

students of all ages and experience levels.

For any student learning an instrument, the ultimate goal is to create music that both the performer and the listener will enjoy. That is the reason we call ourselves musicians: to entertain, to enjoy, and to have fun. As musicians, the reason we spend time learning and practicing is to develop the skills necessary on our instrument in order to produce the best music possible, in the most efficient way possible.

Jesse Baker performing Georgia On My Mind with The Atlanta Modernaires

Trumpet Lessons

North Atlanta High School Trumpet Sectional - 2026

My approach focuses on giving students the tools and materials they need to succeed on their own. I am here to motivate, guide, and provide structure. The foundation of trumpet playing lies in strong fundamentals—producing a full, resonant sound; breathing; focused airflow; ear training; tonguing; lip flexibility; finger dexterity; and range development. I spend a good amount of time in each lesson, particularly with younger students, on fundamentals, as they are crucial for proper development. We then take these fundamentals and learn to successfully employ them in songs, etudes, repertoire, band music, etc.

The process of improvement varies from student to student. What works for one may not work for another. Together we create a system of practice tailored to the individual student — the objective is not only to reinforce correct practice and performance methods, but to guide each student on a path they

can eventually take on their own.