Teaching

Christopher Belluscio, who earned his doctorate from Boston University in 2012, is in demand as an educator, scholar, and speaker.

A leading expert on historical trumpets, Mr. Belluscio offers private lessons and coachings at his home in Newton, Massachusetts, and regularly presents lecture-demonstrations at various museums, notable musical instrument collections, academic conferences, and University music departments throughout the United States.

Below, you'll find a representative list of Mr. Belluscio's lecture-demonstrations. For more information and booking inquiries, please send an email to belluscio@gmail.com.

Lecture-demonstration topics

Introduction to the Natural Trumpet

This introductory lecture takes a fresh look at the tonal and technical capabilities of the natural trumpet (both true and modern “vented” styles). Musical examples are performed live on a selection of early brass instruments, and students are encouraged to try out these instruments themselves. In addition to bolstering students' knowledge of the history of the trumpet, the session offers insight into how the sounds and techniques of early instruments can influence choices that modern players make about articulation, interpretation, and style.

Instruments of the Great German, Austrian and French Romantics 

Strauss and Mahler wrote some of the most famous orchestral literature featuring the trumpet. But did you know that these works were actually written for instruments quite different from the instruments played by most trumpeters today? This lecture takes a deep dive into the workings of trumpets in low F, E-flat, and G alto, giving students the opportunity to learn about their capabilities, techniques and unique sound. These insights will provide young orchestral trumpeters with context for interpretation and will provide new tools for keeping the common orchestral “licks” fresh and alive. 

The Keyed Trumpet and the Concertos of F. J. Haydn and Hummel

The trumpet concertos composed by Haydn and Hummel were originally written for the keyed trumpet, an instrument sharing more common features with woodwinds than the modern trumpet of today. The lecture will include live demonstrations on both modern trumpet and the keyed trumpet, comparing and contrasting the possibilities of these two instruments. Students will deepen their understanding of these essential concerto works, adding a new facet to their playing and teaching of this repertoire.

Francis Johnson: American Musical Superstar

Virtuoso composer and Keyed Bugler Francis Johnson transcended the deep-set racial and cultural borders of America in the 2nd quarter of the 19th Century. Learn the story of his life, from his beginnings in Martinique, to popularity in circles of Philadelphia high society, to performing for world leaders including Queen Victoria and others. In addition to being a virtuoso bugler and composer, Johnson was also a superb violinist and bandleader.

The Age of Invention and the Search for Full Chromaticism

The period between 1790 and 1850 saw a Pan-European movement to fully chromaticize the trumpet with various successful instrument designs beign developed with their own unique repertoires.  Experience the Demilune, English Slide Trumpet, Keyed Trumpet, Keyed Bugle, and early valve trumpets and the beautiful music written for them.

The 19th Century Cornet

The Great Cornet Soloists of the 19th and early 20th Centuries left us their solos, teachings, and in some cases their recorded legacies.  An in-depth look at the players, playing styes, and instruments of this era.