Brass Mastery...

What does that even mean?

There's always something to work on; something that can be done better. Some thing that wasn't perfect.

And then when we do master that thing, it's on to the next thing that seems impossible, always bringing us back to reality.

It's always two steps forward, one step back, isn't it? making the idea of Brass Mastery truly elusive.

But what if our instrument is not the thing we should be trying to master.

Maybe there's more to Brass Mastery than playing at a certain level, finding the perfect mouthpiece, or playing higher, faster and louder than the next guy.

What if we are the ones we need to master? Our body, mind and spirit.

And if we're able to master ourself, does it even matter whether we master our instrument?

My name is James D. Newcomb, and in this podcast we will uncover the secrets of those who have seemingly mastered their brass instrument. We will dive deep into conquering those elements - body, mind, spirit (with just enough pedagogy to keep it real) - in hopes of taking our playing and our quality of life to the next level.

Will some view this project as a high-minded fool's errand? Just another podcast that's trying to make a quick buck?

Perhaps.

But I'm willing to take that risk to see if Brass Mastery is truly possible.

Will you join me?

Then let's begin.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit brassmastery.substack.com