Brass at Millikin University
The brass department at Millikin University welcomes you to the brass websites for trumpet, horn, trombone, tuba and euphonium. The Millikin brass faculty, made up of the following faculty: Dr. David Moore (trumpet), Stephen Burian (horn) and Dr. Gary Shaw (trombone) are believers in the mentor/apprentice model in that they "practice what they preach." All are skilled professional players and caring teachers who are dedicated to helping students build successful careers in music. Please feel free to contact any of our brass professors with inquiries regarding brass playing opportunities at Millikin University.
Applications and Auditions
To apply or schedule an audition, learn more about the application process for the School of Music.
Stay up to date on news and information about the Millikin University Symphonic Wind Ensemble and other performance opportunities.
Euphonium & Tuba
Euphonium and tuba study at Millikin University includes a weekly private lesson and masterclass. All students, regardless of their major (performance, music education, music business or commercial music) receive a 50-minute lesson each week. Lessons for music minors are 30 minutes. Masterclass includes tuba-euphonium ensemble rehearsal and performance class. Two to three times each semester, students perform a prepared solo or etude for the studio. Students write helpful comments for their peers and we discuss common issues that benefit and help all of us to become better musicians.
Trombone
Trombone study at Millikin University includes a weekly private lesson and masterclass. All students, regardless of their major (performance, music education, music business or commercial music) receive a 50 minute lesson each week. Lessons for music minors are 30 minutes. Masterclass includes trombone ensemble rehearsal and performance class. The Millikin Trombone Ensemble (MUTE) performs on campus at our Area Recitals and Student Thursday Recitals. The Trombone Ensemble has performed at Krannert Auditorium on the campus of the University of Illinois, and recently, at the Midwest Trombone and Euphonium Conference at Eastern Illinois University. Two to three times each semester, students perform a prepared solo or etude to for the studio class. Students write positive and helpful comments for their peers and we discuss common issues that benefit and help all of us to become better players.
Prospective trombone students are invited to sit in on rehearsals for wind ensemble and jazz band, and have a free lesson. To schedule a date and time, contact Gary Shaw.
Trumpet
The trumpet studio at Millikin University consists of trumpet students from around the region who have come to Millikin to develop their trumpet skills. They major in programs such as performance, commercial music, music education and music business. Some Millikin trumpet students major in non-music programs but still maintain a significant presence in the musical life of the University through their dedication to their instrument. Each student studies weekly with Dr. David Moore. Lessons are catered to the needs and goals of each student. All students meet regularly in trumpet master class where they perform for one another, and discuss pedagogical and historical topics relating to the trumpet. Millikin trumpet students have the opportunity to perform in the weekly Thursday recitals, or once a month in the wind area recitals.
All members of the trumpet studio are members of the Millikin University Trumpet Society (MUTS) which promotes trumpet events on campus. In recent years, MUTS has helped sponsor the appearances of Al Vizzutti, William Scarlet, Marvin Perry, Pharez Whitted, Bobby Shew, Sonus Brass and Four Other Brothers. Members of the Millikin Trumpet Society also make trips to hear performances of groups such as the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.
Teaching Philosophy
With the arts in a constant state of change, students pursuing music careers should, at the very least, have an understanding of the performance techniques appropriate for a variety of musical styles. Cross-fertilization of musical styles can be found in orchestral, wind band, jazz, pop and many other settings. Although deeply exploring one specific style or aspect of music is important as students advance through graduate degrees, a broad knowledge base of musical styles (i.e. baroque, classical, contemporary, swing, salsa etc.) during undergraduate study aids in the development of well-rounded musicianship. I strongly believe that the twenty-first century trumpet player needs to be versatile and able to adapt. Students are strongly encourage to participate in both classical and jazz ensembles, gain experience arranging and composing music, and learn how to self-promote their work through website design and use of social media. Becoming a well-rounded, versatile performer and educator increases music collaboration opportunities and marketability for employment.
Command of the trumpet is essential for versatility and finding one’s musical voice. World renowned pedagogue and tubist Arnold Jacobs said, “The main function of teaching is to develop artistry.” Artistry is not musical superficiality. It is a deep understanding of yourself as a human being and how you relate and connect with the world and others around you. As a mentor, I help guide students as they search for their musical voice. This is done in part by regularly taking time to assess students’ musical and non-musical interests and career aspirations. Additionally, I emphasize the development of strong music fundamentals to help equip students with the necessary tools and techniques required to express themselves musically. The end goal is to help students become continuous learners throughout their respective careers.