Bruce was Encore's Instructor of the Month in October, 2024.
Instructors upholding Encore's standards receive nominations from students and fellow staff in order to be considered for the nomination. One of his students, Owen, told us, “You can tell Bruce really cares about the student. He is really patient with students who are brand new to playing the trumpet. He wants the student to learn but also to enjoy the instrument. He knows a lot about horns and even gave me a scientific lesson on how air moves from the mouth into the mouthpiece to create sound through the trumpet. He compared it to a jet engine on an airplane!” Another nominating comment shared, “Bruce shared a personal story of how playing trumpet improved his health at a young age. It was really interesting to know that playing a musical instrument can make someone physically stronger and healthier.” |
Teaching with Encore since June 2024
EAGLE, S MERIDIAN BRUCE MILLS (Trumpet, Horn) Bruce has been playing trumpet for over 50 years. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education in 1981 from the University of Redlands, Redlands, CA and a MBA in Finance from California State University San Bernardino, CA. In addition to the various musical groups at the University, Bruce performed with the Redlands Fourth of July Band and in other community ensembles. He formed the Redlands Firecrackers Dixieland Band, a professional group that performed in the area at various functions. After moving to San Diego County, CA, Bruce became the Principal Trumpet for the North Coast Symphony, a position which he held for 10 years. He also performed on occasion with the La Jolla Symphony and Chorus, as well as in local big bands. He relocated to Orange County, CA in 2006 when he became the founding President of Partners Bank of California. There he joined the Golden West Pops Band and the Southern California Philharmonic Orchestra. After retirement from Banking, Bruce relocated to Meridian, Idaho with his wife, son and grandkids. Since his arrival here he has performed in various organizations including being Principal of the Canyon County Symphony and is a member of the Serenata Orchestra and Encore's Starrharrt Symphonic. He also performs from time to time with the Meridian Symphony, and previously performed with the Treasure Valley Concert Band. Bruce is also a regular in the pit orchestras for the Music Theatre of Idaho. A lifelong student of trumpet, Bruce has studied over the years with the following renowned professional teachers: -Claude Gordon Professional trumpet player, band leader, educator and author -Joan La Rue Professor of Trumpet at California State University Long Beach, CA -John McFerren Wilds 2nd Trumpet, San Diego Symphony, CA -David Washburn Trumpet performer, recording studio artists, Los Angeles Philharmonic, LA Opera, LA Chamber Orchestra -Barry Perkins Studio Musician, Principal trumpet – Pacific Symphony, Newport Beach, CA -Howie Shear Studio Musician, Professor of Trumpet California State University Northridge -David Evans Professional Trumpet Player, Educator, Glendora, CA -Dr. Derek Ganong Professor of Trumpet, Boise State University, performing artist Check the availability for another instructor here.
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NORTH TREASURE VALLEY CENTER
1045 S Ancona Ave #140, Eagle, ID 83616 Desk Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00am-7:00pm 208-570-9674 (The center is also open for students during any other scheduled lessons or classes.) |
SOUTH TREASURE VALLEY CENTER
3017 S Meridian Rd, Meridian, ID 83642 Desk Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00am-7:00pm 208-570-9622 (The center is also open for students during any other scheduled lessons or classes.) |