I first met Jimmy Maxwell when I had just turned 17. Sitting in the teaching studio in his home surrounded by what I learned to be one of the largest private libraries of Zen Buddhist literature in the United States, I was in awe of this man, large in both physical presence as well as the atmosphere that he commanded. Jimmy became a close friend, a mentor in life and music, and a man to whom I feel an immense measure of gratitude. That day began a lifelong practice of his "systemless system" which he writes about in detail in his book The First Trumpeter published by Charles Colin. To this very date I begin my daily adventure into life as a trumpet player with his routine which I learned at his side in the 1970's and 80's. Jimmy insisted that one be trained classically before venturing into the expressions and articulations of jazz and improvisation. I welcome all students from beginner through professional level, and am committed to sharing the incredibly effective wisdom that I was so fortunate to be given by this man who sits besides me in spirit every time I lift the horn to my lips. Thank you, sir. |