About this Service

Offering trumpet lessons to people of all-ages and levels. Expertise in fundamental brass technique, sound production, tone, flexibility, endurance, and range. Holistic approach to music with an emphasis on breath control. Lessons can also focus of improvisation and jazz playing; from rhythmic and harmonic studies to soloing over song forms ranging in styles of blues, swing, bebop, fusion, R&B, funk, neo-soul, free jazz, and contemporary pop. Written materials and playalong recordings can be available on request.

Piano lessons are also available for people looking to start playing or wanting to get back into their repertoire. Expertise in jazz concepts and beginning classical technique. Focus on fluidity of motion, and nuanced touch to enhance the emotional complexities of song. As with my trumpet lessons; there can be a focus on improvisation and jazz playing; from rhythmic and harmonic studies to soloing over song forms ranging in styles of blues, swing, bebop, fusion, R&B, funk, neo-soul, free jazz, and contemporary pop. Written materials and playalong recordings can be available on request.

Lessons can be done over Zoom or in-person at your home.

About this Lister

My name is John "Scotty" Otten and I'm a multi-faceted artist, musician, trumpeter, composer, producer, pianist living in Brooklyn. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, I was exposed early to great music educators as a kid and was able to uncover my passion for music at a young age. I am motivated to "pass it forward" to the next person as I have learned many lessons and overcome hardship through the life and study of a musician. I love to help people grasp musical concepts and implement them in songs through focused practice and guidance.

Background and Expertise

Originally from Seattle, I have been playing and teaching music for well over a decade and am a former music school teacher at Friends Seminary. I've led ensembles and trumpet-specific curriculums to students age 10 to 18. My lifelong goal is to uplift people through arts education; whether in the classroom or in my private studio. I play professionally in NYC as a gigging trumpeter and have traveled internationally as a performing artist in various ensembles; most notably with the Afro-Colombian folk group "Rebolú". I am a trained jazz trumpeter holding a bachelor's degree from Manhattan School of Music.

I have references available on request.