Purtle Brass Conference - 2011
Purtle Brass Conference 2011
The 2011 Purtle Brass Conference expanded on the foundation established in 2010, bringing together leading performers, educators, and industry professionals for a deeper exploration of brass playing, pedagogy, and real-world musical careers.
This conference emphasized the integration of technical fundamentals, musical expression, and practical career knowledge—connecting systematic trumpet development with real performance experience.
Key Sessions & Topics
- Claude Gordon’s teachings and their practical application
- The “Diaphragmatic Breathing” discussion and misconceptions
- Wind power, tongue function, and coordination
- Range, endurance, and control development
- Improvisation and commercial trumpet playing
- Instrument design, repair, and maintenance
- Military and professional music careers
Featured Artists & Faculty
Jeff Purtle – Host and presenter on Claude Gordon’s teachings and systematic trumpet development
Harry Kim – International touring artist (Phil Collins, Earth Wind & Fire, American Idol)
Focus: improvisation, commercial playing, and real-world music career lessons
Carl Lenthe – Professor of Trombone, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
Focus: performance, pedagogy, and musical development
Dr. Larry Miller, M.D.
Focus: physiology and critical examination of breathing concepts in brass playing
Dr. Keith Amstutz
Focus: trumpet pedagogy and the teaching of Col. Earl D. Irons
Rich Ita
Focus: brass instrument repair and maintenance
Additional Contributors
Sessions and performances included a wide range of professional musicians in jazz, classical, and commercial styles, along with discussions of career development and performance practice.
Conference Highlights
- Carl Lenthe masterclass and recital
- Harry Kim sessions on improvisation and music business
- Scientific and pedagogical presentations on brass playing mechanics
- Guest artist interviews and discussions
- Live performances, jam sessions, and ensemble work
Why This Conference Matters
The 2011 conference continued to develop a model of brass education focused on long-term results rather than short-term solutions. It combined:
- Proven professional experience
- Scientific and pedagogical insight
- Practical instruction for real playing situations
These sessions remain valuable as part of the broader archive of trumpet and brass pedagogy.
Explore the Conference Content
Below are sessions, masterclasses, and related materials from the 2011 conference.