Technology Hour: Trumpet and the Internet
Ellis Workman, reporter
Michael Anderson's (TPIN founder) presentation on Trumpet and the Internet described how the Internet has had a profound effect on the mission of the ITG: that is, the promotion of international communication among trumpet players.
Spatially and even temporally disparate trumpeters all over the world began communicating via
Especially delightful at this conference has been the opportunity of this reviewer to meet people in "real life".
There is a wealth of information and resources available through the Internet via e-mail discussion groups, Usenet, chat IRC, and various web sites. The main problem Internet users (not just online trumpeters) face is how to validate information.
The ITG web site was reviewed to demonstrate the breadth of information available on the net. In addition to up to the minute ITG conference coverage, the ITG web site contains current news, job postings, calendar events, and reference materials.
Effective use of the Internet requires a commitment to mastering new technical and communication skills. The technical skills may not be as daunting as the unique communication skills required. Internet discussions tend to equalize participants and people are judged on the content of their posts, rather than on their credentials. Online discussions may seem chaotic or even rude to a "newbie;" however, nearly six years of trumpet players presence on the Internet demonstrates a growing, self-regulating community where many lasting and significant relationships have been formed. Through the Internet, trumpeters from all over the world are in continual contact.
