With an animated and energetic delivery, Stripling talked about anticipating where the trumpet field is heading in the future. He suggested reading trumpet journals and music news sources daily. Successful executives practice this simple "business sense." He discussed isolating difficulties in playing, the need to keep a journal about practice sessions and performance experiences, and the necessity of commitment in musical achievement. Stripling spoke of doing and practicing things that will make one a better player, stating that continuously changing the various aspects of playing will not help you improve as a musician.

He pointed to three keys of success: daily practice, attentive listening, and modeling the masters. The habit of daily practice is essential to musical growth. Stripling demands that his students believe in their practicing (that practicing will help you) and know why they practice what they are practicing. In listening, the student must "give, and they shall receive." He suggested the development of listening skills in the car with a CD or tape player as opposed to listening to the radio. He also urged attendees to practice the piano as an excellent avenue for ear training. Modeling those who are masters of the trumpet eliminates "reinventing the wheel" of successful trumpet playing. When talking with such masters, one should seek information about playing and musical development. Asking questions about mouthpieces and horns is much less valuable than seeking information that will truly help one improve.

Stripling led the participants through a powerful visualization exercise, asking each to create a vivid mental image of their own successful performance at Carnegie Hall. This writer was spellbound by this approach.