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Confidence wasn’t missing — it was misunderstood. In this episode, Ryan sits down with trumpet player and educator Stephen Wadsack to unpack how deeply held beliefs about confidence can quietly shape — and limit — the way we practice, perform, and grow as musicians. What starts as a conversation about auditions and orchestral playing turns into something much deeper: how confusing confidence with arrogance, or treating it as a personality trait instead of a byproduct of clarity, can hold even highly skilled players back. Together, they explore how humility, organization, identity, and understanding your fundamentals can actually create the confidence most musicians are searching for. If you’ve ever felt confident in some settings but not others, struggled with comparison, or wondered why hard work doesn’t always translate into freedom on stage, this conversation will resonate. Support the show

Many trumpet players experience frustration, inconsistency, or uncertainty in their practice — and assume that’s just normal. In this video, I break down 3 trumpet practice habits that are common, but don’t have to stay that way. These habits often feel normal because they’re widespread, especially when players work hard without a clear system, feedback loop, or defined outcome. The goal here isn’t to criticize how you practice — it’s to help you understand why these experiences happen and what can change them. In this video, you’ll learn: Why certain frustrating practice experiences are so common How these habits affect progress, confidence, and consistency What principles I use to create clearer, more productive practice How to rethink practice without invalidating your past experience This video is for serious trumpet players who want to practice with more clarity, intention, and confidence — whether you’re a student, amateur, or professional. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working hard but not seeing the results you expect, this will help you understand what’s actually going on. Support the show

In this episode, I share the full story of my recent audition for the Principal Trumpet position with the Philadelphia Orchestra — one of the highest-profile trumpet auditions in the world. I made the finals, but the real takeaway wasn’t the result. It was the stillness, clarity, and confidence I felt throughout the entire process, even when things weren’t going my way. If you’re a trumpet player, brass musician, or anyone preparing for orchestra auditions, I hope this story gives you insight into how mindset, identity, organization, and deliberate practice all come together under pressure. Support the show

In this episode of That’s Not Spit, It’s Condensation, I sit down with tubist and teacher Ron Von Dreau to talk about what it takes to build and sustain a thriving private teaching studio. Ron has taught in Texas for decades, managing studios of 60–80+ students while also teaching at the university level, directing band programs, and balancing freelance performing. His story is full of lessons for anyone building a teaching career: from starting with only a handful of students to learning the business side of teaching, earning trust with parents and band directors, and keeping students motivated year after year. We cover: -Ron’s eclectic career path from chamber music to teaching to band directing -How he grew his Texas studio to over 80 students -The importance of reputation, professionalism, and communication -Pedagogical “non-negotiables” that guide his teaching -Why fundamentals and flexibility matter more than flashy methods -The business realities of running a private studio (payments, scheduling, taxes) -His advice for young teachers starting out Whether you’re a brass player, a music educator, or someone curious about what it takes to make a living teaching, this conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and practical advice. 👉 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with a friend who might benefit from Ron’s wisdom.Taken from "That's Not Spit, It's Condensation!" Episode - Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts! - http://www.linktree.com/thatsnotspit Support the show

In this episode, I'm going to break down the real reason auditions feel so brutal—and what separates the winners from everyone else. It's not luck. It's not just talent. It's a learnable set of skills that anyone can develop. If you’ve ever walked off stage thinking “I thought I was ready… what happened?”—this is for you. You’ll learn: ✅ The mindset shift that changes everything ✅ Why fundamentals actually matter ✅ The power of a clear, consistent plan ✅ And what most people misunderstand about deliberate practice If you're ready to take auditions seriously—and stop leaving your success up to chance—listen to this episode and apply what you learn. If you’re interested in working with me in my audition program, click the link below for more info: https://live.ryanbeachtrumpet.com/audition-program - Join my Skool community and watch my free masterclass on the GOLD Method of Practice Organization https://www.skool.com/practice-independence-6092/about?ref=df99ad5a74574d09b881eb405135b71f Support the show

In this episode, we break down how to master lip trills, develop faster and cleaner technique, and play with more freedom—without adding tension. You’ll learn why “lip trills” aren’t actually about the lips, how to train your air and embouchure for effortless control, and the exact exercises that build dazzling technique you can trust in any performance. We also explore how brass band playing can transform your musicianship, the mindset shifts that speed up progress, and practical advice for staying motivated and consistent. What you’ll learn: •How to do lip trills on trumpet (and why most players overcomplicate them) •Trumpet flexibility exercises that improve range and control •How to build speed and clarity without overthinking •The embouchure setup that makes lip trills easier •Why brass band playing develops dynamics, blend, and endurance •Mindset tips for overcoming plateaus in your playing - Dr. Douglas Lindsey joined the faculty at the University of Oklahoma in the Fall of 2023. Prior to his time at OU, Dr. Lindsey was the Associate Professor of trumpet and brass area coordinator at Kennesaw State University. As a soloist, he has performed many times each at the International Trumpet Guild conference, at the Atlanta Trumpet Festival, at the Trumpet Festival of the Southeast, in numerous faculty and guest soloist recitals across the country, and with many high school, community and college bands across the country. Recently, in collaboration with pianist Kristy Olefsky, Dr. Lindsey released his first solo album, Impressions of France. Alongside pianist Judy Cole, he has performed solo recitals all over the Southeast as a founding member of Duo Trompiano. As an orchestral musician, he has performed as principal trumpet of the Memphis Symphony, as section trumpet with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, as principal trumpet of the Georgia Symphony Orchestra, as section trumpet with the Macon Symphony, and spent two summers as an orchestral fellowship winner at the Aspen Music Festival. His love of building community through music is highlighted by his leadership role in the Georgia Brass Band where he served as President and Principal Cornet for many years. This work culminated in the Georgia Brass Band earning their highest ever placement at NABBA. Recently in 2023 he was tapped to play principal cornet for the award-winning Fountain City Brass Band. In addition to a large variety of concerts in the United States, the band will also travel to England to compete alongside some of the world's finest bands. In addition to brass bands, Dr. Lindsey has spent time on tour in the award-winning University of Wisconsin Brass Quintet and as a member of the Mirari Brass Quintet. Previous to earning his DMA at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Lindsey studied with Allan Dean at Yale, earning his Master of Music with the distinction of winning the John Swallow excellence in brass prize. Prior to Yale he studied with Ray Mase, Louis Ranger, Kevin Cobb, Scott Moore and Richard Rulli. Dr. Lindsey received his music performance and music education degrees magna cum laude from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville. Dr. Lindsey is a Mercer and Barker mouthpiece and Schilke trumpet artist. - Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts! - http://www.linktree.com/thatsnotspit Support the show

In this episode of That's Not Spit, It's Condensation, I sit down with Victor Djonorh, longtime band director at Summit Middle School and assistant director at Edmond Santa Fe, to dive deep into the realities of teaching music at the middle and high school level. We cover:  🎵 How he accidentally became a tuba player  🎓 Lessons from his time at Oklahoma City University  👨‍🏫 What he wishes he knew as a first-year teacher  💡 How he keeps students engaged (and why relationships are everything)  📈 The balance between high standards and student well-being  🎺 Why modeling on your instrument matters more than you think  🧠 How he stays inspired through burnout and busy seasons Whether you're a music educator, band director, or just curious about how great teachers make a difference, this episode is full of insight, humor, and practical wisdom. 🎙️ Subscribe for more deep dives into the world of music and education. Support the show

In this episode, I’m joined by Johanna Yarbrough, who recently transitioned from her role as second horn with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra to become the Professor of French Horn at Louisiana State University. What begins as a conversation about career trajectory quickly unfolds into a vulnerable and deeply insightful look at the realities of orchestral life—and what it means to grow beyond it. Johanna shares her early path through public school band, studying abroad in Norway with Frøydis Ree Wekre, and winning the DSO job straight out of Colburn. But we go far beyond the résumé. We dig into: The hidden toll of orchestral pressure on mental health How her identity became entangled with achievement Learning to separate musical excellence from personal worth The challenges of orchestra culture, groupthink, and navigating difficult personalities What she now sees as her mission: helping students become not just better players, but better people From beta blockers and burnout to purpose and pedagogy, this episode explores the messy, human side of a music career. Whether you’re an aspiring orchestral musician, a college student, or a seasoned player wondering “what’s next,” Johanna’s story will hit home.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts! Support the show

Doug McVey is the founder of Vennture mouthpieces. He guides the technical direction of Vennture, oversees the development of VennCAD, and designs the tooling and processes used to produce Vennture custom mouthpieces. www.vennture.mp Support the show

Michael Anderson is the recently retired Professor of Trumpet at the Wanda L. Bass School of Music at Oklahoma City University. He is a member of the International Trumpet Guild Board of Directors and ITG Journal editorial committee, Executive Director of the Guild’s web site, and chairman of the ITG technology committee. He is the ITG Journal columnist for Trumpet Technology and has presented and performed at several ITG Conferences. Previously to his OCU appointment, he was on the music faculty of Dana College in Blair, Nebraska. Anderson was project manager of the ITG Journal anniversary CD-ROM, distributed to guild members in 2001 and is currently working on a DVD of all Journal articles and music supplements for the membership to be released in 2008. He founded and administrates the Trumpet Players’ International Network (TPIN), the oldest and most active Internet discussion list dedicated to the trumpet. His degrees are from Illinois State University (BM), and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (MM). Primary teachers have been Dennis Schneider, Herbert Koerselman, and Arnold Jacobs. During his 2003 sabbatical, Anderson observed and studied with master teachers including Bill Adam, Vincent DiMartino, Ronald Romm, Michael Ewald, Karl Sievers, and William Pfund. Anderson is a tenured member of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, the Lyric Theater Orchestra and the New Covenant Methodist Church Band. He performs regularly as a duo with Oklahoma City University Organist Timothy Olsen. He was a member of the Lincoln (Nebraska) Symphony Orchestra for 21 years, and performed often with the Omaha Symphony and Opera Omaha. He was a founding member of the Omaha Brass Ensemble, and the Nebraska Brass, and was a member of the Palladium Brass Quintet. He was musical director for the Omaha Big Band and the Omaha Jazz Youth Project. He is an active freelance trumpeter, and has played for countless national tours; recording sessions; and jazz, orchestra and chamber music events. Support the show

Karl Sievers grew up in Louisville, KY. His teachers include Leon Rapier, former principal trumpet in the Louisville Orchestra; Louis Davidson, former principal trumpet in the Cleveland Orchestra; William Adam at Indiana University; and others. Karl holds a DMA in Trumpet Performance, is in his 24th season as principal trumpet in the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, and has recently retired from a Presidential Professorship at the School of Music at the University of Oklahoma. In addition to his orchestral work, he plays lead trumpet in jazz, commercial, and Broadway show venues. His passions outside of music include fitness, motorcycles, fishing, and family. Support the show

William A. Baker, was appointed Bass Trombonist of the Lyric Opera of Chicago Orchestra in 2024 by Music Director Enrique Mazzola. He also currently serves as the Principal Bass Trombonist of the Monterey Symphony, a post he has held since 2018.  From 2021-2024, Will primarily performed with the San Francisco Symphony, including over 200 performances, and European Tour, and the 2023 SFS recordings with Maestro EsaPekka Salonen.  A native of Walnut Creek, California, Will has performed with the San Francisco Opera and Ballet, the Detroit Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Alabama Symphony, and Malaysian Philharmonic. Will began his professional career in Iowa, performing as the tenured member of Orchestra Iowa from 2013-17 and the Des Moines Symphony since 2014-18. In 2016, while artist in residence with the Southeast Iowa Symphony (SEISO), Will commissioned and premiered a new bass trombone concerto by composer Robert Tindle titled At Sixty Miles An Hour. In 2018, Will premiered the Wind Ensemble arrangement with Travis Cross and the UCLA Wind Ensemble.  Will graduated Cum Laude from UCLA with a BA in music performance, studying Euphonium and Bass Trombone with Patrick Sheridan. He then earned a Masters Degree in Bass Trombone performance at Northwestern University where he studied with Michael Mulcahy, Randall Hawes, Peter Ellefson, and Tim Higgins. After school, Will continued his studies with Kyle Covington of the San Diego Symphony, and all the members of the San Francisco Symphony brass section.  Support the show

Dr. Jennifer Oliverio is a celebrated cornet and flugelhorn player who holds the positions of principal cornet with the Fountain City Brass Band and flugelhorn with the Athena Brass Band. Jen is currently the Assistant Professor of Music in trumpet at Missouri Western State University and one of the directors for the Fountain City Youth Brass Academy. Jen is an avid supporter of new music for cornet and flugelhorn, having commissioned and premiered solo works by Lucy Pankhurst, Dorothy Gates, Kevin Day, Andrea Hobson, Jen Mitchell, and Joel Collier for her premiere solo album Enigma. Her work on Enigma received overwhelmingly positive reviews and was nominated for the 4barsrest Album of the Year,  a silver medal in the Global Music Awards, and winner of the 2023 American Prize in brass performance. Jen has served on the board of directors for the Fountain City Brass Band, the Athena Brass Band, the Visionary Panel for the National Youth Brass Band of America, and currently as the column editor for the International Trumpet Guild’s cornet column. As a clinician, Jen regularly performs and presents at national and international festivals including: the International Trumpet Guild Conference, Brass Institutes of America, International Women’s Brass Conference, PRIZM Chamber Music Festival, and the Eastman Summer Trumpet Institute. In her freelance work, Jen has performed as an extra with the Kansas City Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Alabama Symphony and is a founding member of the Trilogy Brass Trio. As a teacher, Jen has had students accepted as semi-finalists in the National Trumpet Competition, semi-finalists for the International Trumpet Guild solo competitions, and as winners in the North American Brass Band Championships solo and ensemble competitions.  Jen is proud mother to son Ben and wife to husband Patrick. Support the show

Grace O’Connell is a highly diverse musician with equal passions for soloing, orchestral playing, and chamber music. Grace frequently plays in the Nashville Symphony Orchestra and Huntsville Symphony Orchestra trumpet sections and is also a dynamic soloist and active competitor in national and international competitions. Most recently she was named first place winner of the Roger Voisin Memorial Trumpet Competition (2024). She was also named first place winner in the International Trumpet Guild Solo Division (2023), MTNA Young Artist Solo Division (2022), as well as the National Trumpet Competition Undergraduate Division (2022). She has been a featured soloist with the Eastern Music Festival Orchestra, Southern Stars Symphonic Brass Band, and Middle Tennessee Sinfonietta. In 2021 and 2023, Grace was the recipient of two separate URECA Grants from MTSU, aiding her in completing several solo trumpet recordings for digital release which are available on various music streaming platforms. She is currently pursuing a Master of Music degree from Yale University and holds a Bachelor of Music from Middle Tennessee State University. Her primary teachers include John Aley, Michael Arndt, and Kevin Cobb. Support the show

Christopher Smith brings nearly 20 years of major orchestral and ensemble experience to the role of Principal Trumpet of the San Diego Symphony Orchestra. Prior to joining the SDSO, he was 4th/Utility Trumpet with l’Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) for 11 years, and served as Acting Associate Principal Trumpet from 2015-18. He has performed with OSM on eight international tours (two as Associate Principal Trumpet), numerous live broadcasts on Mezzo TV and Medici.tv (several as Principal Trumpet), and five recordings, including as lead trumpet on MIKA et l'Orchestre symphonique de Montréal. Prior to joining OSM in 2008, Mr. Smith performed for eight years in “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, one of the world’s finest wind ensembles and America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. The Marine Band’s mission is to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps, performing at The White House for The Presidential Inauguration, events of national importance, holidays and ceremonies. Members of The Marine Band also participate in state funerals and full honors funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, including live trumpet performances of “Taps” on national television, which Mr. Smith provided on numerous occasions. He also performed on five U.S. tours totaling over 40 concerts and, as an E-7 Gunnery Sergeant, supervised and mentored junior Marines. Mr. Smith also led small ensembles and was a co-founder of the Valor Brass quintet, which performed two tours and over 10 recitals, including a standing-room-only recital at The Midwest Clinic in Chicago. As a decorated veteran of the Marine Corps, Mr. Smith is a strong supporter of the United States military and is thrilled to connect as a member of the SDSO with the military community in the greater San Diego area. In addition to his tenured roles in OSM and The United States Marine Band, Christopher Smith has served as Associate Principal Trumpet in the Seattle Symphony (2011-12 season), Acting Principal Trumpet in the Pacific Northwest Ballet (2017-18) and 2nd Trumpet with the Des Moines Metro Opera (2010-11). He has also performed as Guest Principal Trumpet with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and Grand Rapids Symphony; lead trumpet with the singer MIKA; guest performer with the group Pink Martini. He has taught as an adjunct instructor at McGill University, led over 30 masterclasses throughout North and South America and privately coached both professional and collegiate trumpet players. Support the show