In this podcast I attempt to answer all of the wonderful questions that you posted on social media. Some brilliant questions, and I hope that you find the answers interesting. You will find the show notes below with minute markers for specific questions, but please make sure that you listen to the first 3 to 4 minutes of the podcast, as this puts everything in perspective.  00:00 - Intro 02:00 - Equipment: The importance of the right equipment, how to find/pick it and other aspects to consider 09:30 - Leeds United! 10:30 - Difference in sound and style concepts between the London Symphony and Vienna Philharmonic 14:40 - Competitions 23:05 - Key factors of becoming a successful trombonist and musician 25:10 - Playing by memory - is it a necessity? 26:43 - Controlling the facial muscles 27:45 - How to get a strong embouchure and relax the throat + breathing 30:30 - Composing for trombones 31:54 - Dealing with problematic students 32:48 - Mental Preparation 35:46 - Crossing between orchestral and solo playing 38:35 - Advice I'd give my younger self 40:18 - Regrets in my career 41:49 - Being a non-orchestral trombonist and the stigma 45:24 - How to prepare for recitals 49:23 - Stamina in recitals