Recorded at the 2024 ITG conference in Anaheim, Greg Spence and Julie Baxes discuss their experiences with focal dystonia, a neurological condition that affects musicians.

Julie shares her "near-recovery" journey from full-on focal dystonia, detailing the struggles and triumphs in rediscovering her musical abilities with the help of Greg's structured teaching approach.

They explore the steps required for overcoming focal dystonia, touching on the importance of stillness, error detection, and positive self-talk.

Additionally, they emphasize the need for greater awareness and support within the musical community to address and treat this condition effectively.

Episode highlights:

01:16 Julie's Journey with Focal Dystonia

01:37 Greg's Teaching Approach

03:32 The Mystery to Mastery Program

05:23 Understanding Stillness and Anxiety

13:30 Julie's Personal Struggles

34:59 Identifying the Error and Initial Reactions

35:58 The Challenge of Stillness and Performer Mode

36:35 The Importance of Closing Eyes in Therapy

38:16 Moving Past Focal Dystonia: The Process

39:24 Individual Factors and Strategies for Recovery

40:47 The Error Trilogy: Detection, Rejection, Correction

41:52 Technical Steps and Psychological Challenges

50:12 The Role of Honesty and Community Support

54:59 Distinguishing Focal Dystonia from Performance Anxiety

57:07 Advice for Preventing Focal Dystonia

01:05:42 Raising Awareness and Final Thoughts

Resources Mentioned:

mysterytomastery.com

You've been listening to Trumpet Dynamics, telling the story of the trumpet, in the words of those who play it.

To learn more about the show, and to join the Trumpet Dynamics tribe, visit us on the web at trumpetdynamics.com.

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Thank you for listening!

From his early days attempting to join a symphony orchestra to his serendipitous entry into instrument modification, to the present day of crafting high-quality, customized instruments tailor-made to the individual's personality and playing preferences, Ken Larson's's story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a deep passion for music.

In this interview, Ken discusses his teaching philosophy for young musicians, the intricacies of trumpet design, and how overcoming personal challenges, including a severe car accident, shaped his approach to both playing and making trumpets.

Ken also delves into the nuanced relationship between a musician's energy and the metal of their instrument, offering a unique perspective that blends both empirical knowledge and personal experience.

Episode highlights:

00:47 Audition Experiences and Overcoming Nerves

02:44 Teaching and Personal Growth

06:22 Journey into Trumpet Playing

08:49 Early Career and Realizations

10:46 Mentorship and Learning

15:39 Accident and Recovery

19:57 Craftsmanship and Instrument Modification

28:05 Deciding the Size and Placement of the Hole

28:15 The Magic of Metal Vibrations

28:47 Rubber vs. Cork Water Key Stoppers

29:23 Yamaha's Adjustable Water Key Lever

30:03 The Placebo Effect in Instrument Sound

33:22 Heat Treating and Metal Softening

33:57 The Impact of COVID on Instrument Sales

35:04 The Philosophy of Trumpet Building

38:07 Balancing Resistance in Trumpet Playing

39:27 The Mental Aspect of Trumpet Playing

39:46 The Role of Fatigue in Finding the Right Equipment

41:48 The Importance of Consistency

46:38 Teaching Young Trumpet Players

50:55 The Community Element in Music

53:42 Conclusion and Future Topics

Resources Mentioned:

Ken Larson's Brasswerks

Connect With the Guest:

kenlarsonsbrasswerks@hotmail.com

You've been listening to Trumpet Dynamics, telling the story of the trumpet, in the words of those who play it.

To learn more about the show, and to join the Trumpet Dynamics tribe, visit us on the web at trumpetdynamics.com.

And be sure to tap the subscribe button on your phone so you're always up to date with new episodes as they release.

Thank you for listening!

In this episode, we speak with Jason Harrelson, founder of Harrelson Trumpets, about his controversial yet innovative approach to trumpet making, focusing on personalization and client-specific designs.

Jason shares his extensive history with serious health issues, including frequent strokes and heart attacks caused by a congenital heart defect (PFO) and only having one carotid artery. He details the struggles and triumphs of relearning life skills after a major stroke in 2012, the road to recovery, and the eventual successful heart surgery.

Despite a challenging journey, Jason's passion for music and commitment to his craft have remained strong. He now aims to educate and inspire others through master classes and clinics, while also continuing to advance trumpet design through his company, Harrelson Trumpets.

Episode Highlights:

01:15 Early Days and Unique Trumpet Designs

02:40 Personalization and Client Reactions

05:55 Health Challenges and Musical Passion

08:55 Living with a Hidden Disability

09:55 Experiencing Heart Attacks and Strokes

13:30 The Major Health Event of 2012

19:15 Seeking Medical Help: The Importance of Finding the Right Doctor

20:40 Understanding PFO and Aura Migraines

23:15 The Role of Trumpet Playing in Health

25:40 The Road to Recovery: Overcoming Strokes and Surgery

31:10 Relearning Life Skills and Trumpet Playing

37:05 Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts

Resources Mentioned:

Harrelson Trumpets

Connect With the Guest:

Instagram

YouTube

You've been listening to Trumpet Dynamics, telling the story of the trumpet, in the words of those who play it.

To learn more about the show, and to join the Trumpet Dynamics tribe, visit us on the web at trumpetdynamics.com.

And be sure to tap the subscribe button on your phone so you're always up to date with new episodes as they release.

Thank you for listening!