Private Instruction
Trumpet Lessons
Whether you've never played a note or you're polishing your lead trumpet skills, Tom Garland brings decades of professional teaching experience to every lesson — in person or online.
Your Instructor
Tom Garland
Tom Garland started teaching trumpet lessons in 1978 and is currently on faculty at Colorado Mesa University teaching applied trumpet. Over nearly five decades he has guided students from their very first note all the way through college-level performance.
As a professional musician himself, Tom brings real-world experience to every lesson — covering not just technique but the full picture of what it takes to develop as a brass player.
Credentials & Experience
- Teaching since 1978
- Faculty, Colorado Mesa University
- Professional performer
- Students have won awards, scholarships, and gone on to professional careers
How It Works
Flexible Lessons, Your Way
In-Person
Meet face-to-face for hands-on guidance. Tom works with students across Colorado.
Online
Learn from anywhere via video call — same personalized instruction, no commute required.
30-minute lessons
Great for younger students or those just starting out.
60-minute lessons
Ideal for intermediate and advanced students who want to go deeper.
What You'll Learn
A Complete Musical Education
Lessons are fully customized to each student's needs and goals. No two students are the same — Tom tailors every session to where you are and where you want to go.
Theory
Build a strong musical foundation that supports everything you play.
Technical Studies
Scales, arpeggios, lip slurs, and exercises to develop range and endurance.
Posture & Embouchure
Proper technique from day one prevents bad habits and builds long-term progress.
Improvisation
Learn to express yourself freely — essential for jazz and contemporary styles.
Sight Reading
Develop the ability to play music you've never seen before, a critical professional skill.
Who It's For
Beginners Through College Level
Beginners
Never picked up a trumpet? No problem. Tom starts from scratch and makes the first steps fun and achievable.
Students & Youth
School band students looking to improve their chair placement, audition prep, or simply get ahead of the curve.
Intermediate Players
Ready to break through a plateau? Tom identifies what's holding you back and builds a targeted plan.
Advanced & College Level
Polishing lead trumpet skills, preparing for college auditions, or refining professional technique.
Student Stories
What Students Are Saying
"If you are looking for jazz lead trumpet techniques, Tom Garland is your man. I studied with Tom for three years in the 80's and I still use the same phrasing and stylistic techniques today playing lead trumpet in my adult band."
Chris Moura
Director of Bands, Oak Grove High School, San Jose, CA
"Throughout our European tour, Tom demonstrated once again that he is a master performer, with a terrific grasp of musical styles and improvisation. He has extensive experience as a teacher, and any aspiring trumpet player, beginning or advanced, will benefit from his expertise."
Brad Wallace
Graduate, USC Film School — studied with top LA studio musician John Thomas
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us to discuss scheduling, availability, and rates. Tom works with students of all ages and levels — reach out and let's find the right fit for you.