In this new series, we’re interviewing our instructors to get a sense for their methods, philosophy on teaching, and more. Read below to learn more about Curtis Tate, one of our piano and brass instructors!
What first inspired you to start playing music, and how did you choose both brass and piano as your instruments?
That first inspiration came to me when I observed people playing music. This happened when I was very young, maybe about 3 or 4 years old, attending church with my grandmother. In those experiences, it wasn’t enough to just listen to it, I wanted to know how to do it myself. That’s also how I chose the piano. If I could get close enough to piano that I could play it, I would, and because of that, my family enrolled me in piano lessons at age 7 and I’m still playing 35 years later. My arrival at trumpet was a little more of a traditional route, beginning with the band program at my school in the 5th grade. I didn’t think that I would end up going on to study that instrument in college, especially considering that I nearly ended up choosing saxophone, but that instrument is certainly my favorite and I think that it was the correct choice for me.
Do you have a favorite performance memory or musical moment that stands out from your career so far?
It has been a distinct privilege in my career to be able to play a lot of memorable gigs with a lot of memorable musicians, but I believe my favorite was getting to open for Earth, Wind, and Fire. As a trumpet player, that band always held a special place in my heart even from a young age, and getting the chance to not only see them, but to meet them and share the stage with them is a memory that I will always treasure.
What do you love most about teaching, and what’s one thing you hope every student takes away from their lessons with you?
I think the thing I love most about teaching is getting to pass on my knowledge, especially as my students develop their skills, but even if my students don’t remember a single word I say, the thing that I hope every student takes away from their time with me is a love of music. In all the years I’ve been doing this, I think I have had two students who have gone on to study music at the college level. That’s great, and I’m very proud to have helped them on that journey, but that’s not how I measure my success. However well any of my students are able to play, playing music is a skill they can carry with them for the rest of their lives, and it is my hope that it is a skill that makes their lives richer and more beautiful, and I am grateful to play a part in that.
If you could play or perform with any musician — past or present — who would it be and why?
Honestly, I’m very shy about playing with other musicians, especially ones that I hold in high regard as a hero or someone who has “made it.” I can particularly recall a time when I sat in as a keyboard player for Christine Ohlman, the vocalist for the Saturday Night Live band, and I remember it being one of the most nerve-wracking experiences of my career. If I had to choose though, I think I would most like to perform a trumpet concerto with one of the great orchestras of the world. In all my years of playing, it is actually one of the few experiences I have not had but something I have always wanted to do.
When you’re not teaching or performing, how do you like to spend your time outside of music?
My interests outside of music are pretty broad, but there are a few notable ones. I particularly enjoy baseball and I travel nearly every year to see the Philadelphia Phillies play. It is a goal to visit all 30 MLB ballparks. I also enjoy traveling for non-baseball purposes to places both near and far. I love to take a day or two or maybe a long weekend every three months or so and just drive somewhere interesting. I also enjoy cooking and baking and it is probably my favorite relaxation activity. In a previous teaching position, it got out to my students that it’s a hobby of mine, and I received some very nice kitchen goods for Christmas that I still use to this day.
Our Invitation to You
If you’ve ever wondered what it might feel like to explore singing or instrument lessons — whether for yourself or your child — we invite you to come in and talk with us. We’ll help you:
🥁 Pick a musical path that you are excited about (voice, guitar, trumpet, violin, etc.).
💡 Connect with a teacher who doesn’t just teach technique — they inspire connection.
At Canal Fulton Music, we’re not only teaching music; we’re helping musicians find their voice.
Ready to explore? Learn more about lessons below.
