Hans-Joachim Krumpfer

Hans-Joachim Krumpfer (born 1928, near Dresden) was a German trumpeter, pedagogue, and influential specialist in brass education. He studied at the Dresden Academy of Music from 1949 to 1954 under Wilhelm Simon, solo trumpeter of the Staatskapelle Dresden, before beginning his orchestral career with the Philharmonic Orchestra in Halle and later as first trumpet of the Berlin Symphony Orchestra.

Alongside extensive solo activity—particularly on the piccolo trumpet—Krumpfer developed an early commitment to teaching. From 1956 onward, he trained young brass players at the Berlin-Köpenick music school, later expanding his pedagogical work to the “Hanns Eisler” Academy of Music in Berlin. In 1976, he was appointed Head of the Wind Department and trumpet professor at the same institution.

Krumpfer was especially noted for his work on the physiological, psychological, and methodological aspects of brass instruction, giving lectures internationally and focusing on the development of young players. His pedagogical legacy is reflected in numerous publications, including method books for beginners and advanced students, collections of studies, chamber music for trumpets, and editions of orchestral excerpts.