Fred Elias’ Scientific Method for Modern Trumpet is a pivotal and groundbreaking method in the history of the trumpet. His Buzz System was the first ever published that advocated for isolated mouthpiece buzzing on the trumpet to develop tone, strength, and dexterity.

Predating the methods of Schlossberg, Mendez, and Stamp by up to 30 years, Elias’ four-step buzzing process begins with “free” buzzing the mouthpiece apart from the trumpet and ends with playing exercises with the mouthpiece in the trumpet. Using this system, students have been able to build a working range that includes double high G above double C.

Fred Elias says in his foreword that “Vibrations are the tone, and muscles are your background. This system develops both in the quickest manner. Chords are made from scales, and music from both. Technique comes next, and rhythm gives style to your playing.” This progression, starting from the buzz, and ending with technique and style was groundbreaking and laid the groundwork for 50 years of study books that follow. He even had the forethought to bring the range all the way to double C, because he could see that is where the expectations were going for trumpeters.

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