Student Spotlight: Varun Murali
March 13th, 2025
"The most rewarding part of learning music for as long as I have is when I randomly find some of my older music and realize that not only do I still remember how to play it, but also that I am now able to play it better."
Seventeen-year-old Varun Murali has been playing the trumpet for nine years, taking private lessons with his music teacher Chris Hasselbring at the Music Institute of Chicago. His musical journey began with inspiration from family members who made music, and as a child, he chose the trumpet for what he believed was its boldest and loudest sound.
“I’ve kept playing my instrument because I enjoy making music and seeing myself grow as a musician,” Varun says.
Varun’s studies have been shaped by Chris Hasselbring’s unique teaching style, which introduced him to the natural trumpet—a version of the instrument without valves. This method placed an early emphasis on tone production and harmonic movement rather than relying on valves, an approach that Varun credits with strengthening his overall musicianship.
Beyond technique, Varun has learned valuable lessons from his teacher. “I distinctly recall many times over the years when he has suggested I do something to improve my playing, and though there have been many instances where I initially disagreed, he has consistently been right,” he admits. One piece of advice that stuck with him is to slow down and break a problem into smaller pieces instead of simply repeating a difficult section. “It’s relatively simple advice, but I know I’ll carry that on for a while because it’s applicable to a ton of situations in addition to playing trumpet.”
One of the most rewarding parts of playing for nearly a decade, Varun says, is looking back at old pieces and realizing how much he has improved. “Not only do I still remember how to play it, but also that I am now able to play it better.”
Beyond music, Varun enjoys video games, reading, and playing board and tabletop games.
Reflecting on his journey, he says, “I’ve been slowly progressing and broadening my musical horizons through trying many new things—from doing jazz for a bit to playing natural trumpet.” The consistency of private lessons with Chris has helped Varun refine his playing, gain valuable life lessons, and discover new musical possibilities.
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