TRUMPET EDUCATION
Expert, thoughtful trumpet teaching shaped by more than 25 years of professional performance and experience.
Teaching
John works with players of all ages, from first lessons to advanced students preparing for auditions, performances and further study. His teaching develops secure technique, musical confidence and independent thinking.
A calm, practical approach sits at the centre of every lesson. Rather than relying on tension-producing instructions, John helps students understand efficient breathing, airflow, articulation and sound—building reliable habits that support expressive playing.
Current teaching positions
- Shrewsbury School — Trumpet and Music Creation
- Cheadle Hulme School — Brass and Music Creation
- Guest Examiner, University of Cambridge
- Guest Lecturer in Composition & Music Production, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
Publications
John’s three books are published by Obrasso Verlag and provide clear, practical material for players and teachers.
Graded Exercises for Brass
Progressive exercises across eight grade levels, designed to complement ABRSM and Trinity syllabuses and support technical development.
Articulated Air
A focused study of articulation through efficient air support and flow, connecting technical control with clarity, flexibility and confident musical expression.
Selected Exercises for Trumpet
A concise collection of carefully chosen exercises addressing the essential areas of trumpet playing, presented in a clear, practical and easily usable format.
Professional pedigree
John studied at Chetham’s School of Music, where he was a member of both the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. He continued at the Royal College of Music with James Watson and Malcolm Smith, receiving the Ernest Hall Prize for Trumpet.
His subsequent freelance career has included the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, English National Opera, the Royal Opera and London Philharmonic Orchestra, alongside commercial work with artists including Amy Winehouse, Mark Ronson, Jamiroquai, Joss Stone, Corinne Bailey Rae, Vanessa-Mae and Björk. This breadth of experience informs his teaching across classical, jazz and commercial styles.
Lessons, workshops and educational projects
For individual tuition, masterclasses, workshops or institutional enquiries, please get in touch.
Production Music
Trumpet
