Background, professional training and performance history
Alex Shuffield is a passionate trumpet performer, music educator, and composer. Originally from Sparta, Wisconsin, he picked up his father’s trumpet in the sixth grade and began playing in any ensemble that needed a trumpet. A year later, his interest in composition took off and he began composing for his hometown band and jazz programs. After graduating high school, Alex began studying at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point with a double emphasis in instrumental music education and trumpet performance. While there he studied trumpet with Brent Turney, conducting with Brendan Caldwell, and composition with Charles Rochester Young.
After graduating with a Bachelor’s of Music, Alex took a job teaching 5th-12th grade band and jazz band in rural Peshtigo, Wisconsin. Elementary, middle, and high school ensembles consistently received superior ratings under Shuffield’s direction at Wisconsin State Music Association festivals. Currently, Alex is pursuing his Masters degree in Trumpet Performance at the University of Oregon, with a projected graduation of spring 2023. He lives in Eugene with his wife, daughter, and two cats.
Artist statement and teaching philosophy
I believe that students learn best when they play an active role in setting their own goals. Once we’ve set clear goals together, the approach is completely dependent on the student. I am a firm believer that there is no one correct answer, but that there are many potentially correct paths that a student and I discover together. Some general aspects that I encourage are healthy fundamentals of playing, a basic understanding of music theory, and balancing a student’s strengths by addressing their weaknesses. My ultimate personal goal is to foster a lifelong appreciation and love for music in every student.
What he teaches
Alex teaches any level of trumpet, beginner to intermediate trombone, horn, euphonium, and music theory. He can also teach any brass student looking to improve their jazz playing, either big band or improvising. All ages are welcome.