Systematic Trumpet Pedagogy
In the Clarke–Gordon Tradition
Great trumpet study requires more than great books — it requires understanding how they work together.
This site presents a systematic, diagnostic approach to trumpet playing based on the principles of Claude Gordon and Herbert L. Clarke—focused on the physical and physiological requirements of correct playing.
For serious players and teachers, it provides a structured way to apply these principles through disciplined daily study.
Is this you?
- Serious study — but stalled technical progress
- Inconsistent playing under pressure
- Great books — but no clear way to connect them
- Teaching ideas without a clear structure behind them
The Method, Serious Study, Historic Legacy, and the Library each present a different part of this system.
Jeff Purtle is an excellent coach, mentor and friend of any aspiring trumpeter prepared to embark on the hard yards of self-improvement. In our four-year association, the practice routines he has re... Continue Reading
Trumpet Lessons with Jeff Purtle by David Bertie
Freelance Trumpeter & Brass TeacherTrumpet Lessons with Jeff PurtleJeff’s book meets a need for a wide range of audiences, not only the serious amateur player but it is an incredible review of the basic fundamentals even for the most a... Continue Reading
Dan Cathy
Chairman, Chick-fil-AJeff Purtle and his website purtle.com is an essential gate to first class brass teaching. Not only does Jeff keep the invaluable Claude Gordon material and teaching philosophy alive and up to date,... Continue Reading
Philippe Schartz
Principal Trumpet, BBC National Orchestra of WalesJeff Purtle has raised consciousness about the trumpet and its pedagogy throughout the upstate. He is a fine player and an excellent communicator. He offered a masterclass at Furman University on the ... Continue Reading
Gary Malvern
Trumpet Professor, Furman UniversityTrumpet Lessons with Jeff Purtle by Walter CivettiniWell..I'm Walter from Italy....I'm a professional Jazz trumpet player and teacher in Italy near Garda Lake (north Italy close to Austria ) ....after... Continue Reading
Walter Civettini
Professional Jazz Trumpeter & TeacherFor me, as a mature player, I had become somewhat disconnected from mainstream trumpet pedagogy for many years, although I continued to play & work on my music. Faced with a growing backlog of bra... Continue Reading
Leif Arntzen
Adult Trumpet Student, New YorkDavid Bilger on Claude Gordon and this WebsiteYou have a great website -- full of interesting and informative content about Claude Gordon. The layout and navigation is superior, and it fills a void in... Continue Reading
David Bilger
Principal Trumpet, The Philadelphia OrchestraI am so glad you are carrying on the traditions of Claude Gordon's teachings. Frank Kaderabek The Curtis Institute Of Music - Trumpet Professor Principal Trumpet - The Philadelphia Orchestra Phi... Continue Reading
