**This is a replay of an interview recorded in the summer of 2021.**

In this episode, James interviews Chris Gekker, prolific publisher of method books, professor of trumpet at the University of Maryland, and one of the busiest performing artists on the planet.

Chris talks extensively about his career, his experiences during the pandemic, and his perspective on live versus online music. He shares anecdotes from his early (non-musical) life, his passion for both classical and jazz music, and his transition from a symphony career to a teaching role.

He also provides insights on the physical demands of playing the trumpet and his thoughts on the future of his musical endeavors.

Episode highlights:

00:35 Pandemic Challenges and Adaptations

02:24 Return to Live Performances

06:15 Chris Gekker's Early Life and Musical Beginnings

08:45 Journey Through Education and Early Career

13:53 Transition to Teaching and Writing

17:05 Insights on Trumpet Playing and Method Books

26:01 The Challenges of Playing Trumpet

26:24 Physical Strain and Injuries

27:41 The Unique Demands of High Note Trumpeting

28:42 Hearing Loss and Its Impact

30:00 Transitioning from Theater Work

30:22 The Importance of Jazz

32:19 The Evolution of Jazz Education

38:31 Preparing for Solo Recordings

41:47 Balancing Serious and Popular Music

44:55 The Physical Demands of Trumpet Playing

47:47 Concluding Thoughts

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