Lukas Merki

Lukas Merki serves as a lecturer in Trumpet Classical Major and Trumpet Didactics at Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences' Music Academy since 2014, specializing in instrumental technique through the Burba®Brass method under Prof. Malte Burba's supervision. With 30+ years of teaching across Swiss music schools and cantonal institutions, he bridges performance excellence with pedagogical innovation.

His educational foundation includes:

• Diploma in Primary School Teaching (1990)
• Trumpet studies at Peter-Cornelius Conservatory Mainz (1994) with Prof. Malte Burba
• Trumpet studies at Luxembourg Conservatory (1995)
• Teaching diploma with Prof. Rudolf Linder, Basel (1996)
• Masterclasses with Pierre Thibaud, Lisa Sokolov, and Michael Vetter

Merki's work centers on physiologically optimized brass technique, solving embouchure challenges through the Burba®Brass Method. His research spans Classical Trumpet Performance, Jazz Improvisation, and cross-instrumental applications (double bell trumpet, quarter-tone trumpet, alphorn). He develops methodologies for height, endurance, and sound production, translating technical knowledge into goal-oriented practice frameworks for educators and performers.

His recognition includes:

• Pro Argovia Artist 2012/13 for "Two Worlds" (music-poetry fusion project)

As an educator, Merki mentors professional musicians and students across Zurich, Lucerne, and Basel Academies of Music, plus Wettingen Cantonal School. His pedagogical network includes conservatory faculty and orchestra principals from Bern Symphony, Lucerne Symphony, and Argovia Philharmonic. He transforms technical challenges into structured learning pathways through personalized Burba®Brass workshops.

Performing as a long-standing Basel Sinfonietta Orchestra member, he collaborates with Brasspartout quintet and Stradivarius trumpet quartet. His artistic practice explores improvisational trumpet with percussion ensembles and experimental projects like "Two Worlds," demonstrating interdisciplinary innovation in contemporary brass performance.