Prologue:

The Rules below have been carefully developed as a guide for you in your trumpet life. They are not to be taken lightly, and once you have been shown the rules, it is your moral obligation to adhere to them (see Rule #1). Furthermore, once you have been shown the way, you must take on the responsiblity of guiding others on their journey (without violating Rule #22 of course).

Take in this sacred text, guide the uninitiated, and for the love of all things trumpet... wear a tie.

The Rules

  1. Obey the Rules
  2. If it Doesn't Sound Good, No One Cares.
  3. It's not about the Trumpet
  4. Free your mind, and your chops will follow.
  5. A cornet is not a trumpet. (But it should be)
  6. Mouthpieces will be clocked and cleaned.
  7. Daily practice is non-negotiable.
  8. Excellence isn't pie, there is plenty for everyone.
  9. If the Clarke Book is Open, the Metronome is ON!
  10. Warming UP Is For The Weak and Insecure
  11. It isn't the mouthpiece, it's you.
  12. Consider the source.
  13. My part is not your problem
  14. Wear A Tie.
  15. Breathing is so easy, even a sleeping baby can do it.
  16. The word is "embouchure" not "Armbouchure".
  17. It doesn't get easier, you just play better.
  18. No complaining about your range unless you practice range every day.
  19. Good teaching is more than just good modeling.
  20. Just because you can doesn't mean you should.
  21. Endurance only matters if you want to make it to the end.
  22. Early is on time, on time is late, late is unemployed.
  23. High notes don't get better by showering them with hope.
  24. If every group you're in has problems, what do they all have in common?
  25. The Trumpet is God's Instrument.

    26. The Rules Part 2: How to get called back!

  26. Keep your mouth shut
  27. Remember your horn.
  28. Bring the right equipment for the job.
  29. bring your mutes.
  30. Don't sit in the first chair.
  31. Double check the dress code.
  32. Be early, stay late. (See rule 22)
  33. Know your role (principal, second, section) and observe rule #26.
  34. Just be happy to be there.
  35. Don't ask the conductor questions.
  36. Don't be the reason the rehearsal is derailed or delayed for any reason.
  37. Don't bring (or recite out loud) your resume.
  38. Wear black socks.
  39. Be nice.
  40. Don't (attempt to) show up the lead player.
  41. Bring a pencil.
  42. Don't bring food to rehearsal.
  43. Stay off your phone!
  44. Thank the contractor for the call.
  45. NO COLOGNE