Classical Music

Summarise your instrument
'Loud and exciting.'

Best thing about it?
'We often get to play at the most exciting passages in the music.'

Worst thing about it?
'Sometimes you have to wait for 300 bars before an exciting bit comes along.'

How often do you practise?
'Not often enough! I warm up every day, but I generally practise once a week. But I’ve been playing since I was seven.'
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Why did you choose the trumpet?
'I wanted to play the trombone, but was too small. But when I was big enough to play the trombone I knew better.'

Do you wish you played another instrument?
'I sometimes wished I played the French horn; it gets beautiful melodies.'

Where do you sit in the orchestra?
'In the very back row. We are up high and can see out over the orchestra and the audience, which is a nice position.'

How much is your Instrument worth?
'About £1,000, which is very cheap compared to other players. Although I need around ten different instruments in different keys and sizes.'

Most memorable concert?
'Years ago, during a reheasal with the National Youth Orchestra, I tried to play the trumpet part in Messiaen’s "Turangalîla Symphony" louder than anyone had ever played it… and passed out.'

Your favourite pieces for the instrument?
'Mahler’s Fifth Symphony and Stravinsky’s "Rite of Spring".'

When are you playing next?
'On Thursday at the Festival Hall.'

Tell us a joke about trumpeters
'Sorry, we only joke about viola players.'