Practicing Mindfulness as a Listener, Performer, and Teacher with Dr. Eric Dickson

Dr. Eric Dickson is Assistant Professor of Trumpet at Truman State University where he teaches a vibrant trumpet studio and directs both the Truman Trumpet Ensemble and Truman Brass Choir. In addition to his musical responsibilities, Dr. Dickson teaches multiple courses in mindfulness on campus, helping to bring a deeper understanding of mindfulness to hundreds of students each year. He was also named the 2020 Faculty Wellness Honoree of the Year by the students of Truman State University, for his work to promote mental health and wellbeing on campus.
In this conversation, Eric shares his experience with his own mindful practice, how he helps his students to apply a mindful approach to the trumpet, and how participate mindfully as an audience member when listening to a performance. Eric has a great way of explaining his approach to mindfulness, making a challenging and often confusing topic easier to comprehend. If you find it hard to understand what mindfulness and music is all about, this interview is for you.

Links and contact information

• Contact information for Dr. Eric Dickson – https://www.truman.edu/faculty-staff/edickson
• Link to TedTalk by Dr. Shauna Shapiro – https://youtu.be/IeblJdB2-Vo