Adolf Scherbaum was born on August 23, 1909, in the town of Eger in the German speaking Austro-Hungarian Bohemia, now the town is known as Cheb, in Czech Republic. Adolf was fond of the trunpet and showed early success. His talent quickly became evident during school orchestra performances and engagements with the Eger Amateur Symphony Orchestra. After World War I Adolph moved to Prague to study the trumpet and later continued his studies in Vienna.
Career Highlights:
Scherbaum's career took flight when he secured the position of solo trumpeter at the Landestheater in Brünn at the age of 20. A decade later, in 1939, he received an invitation to join the German Philharmonic in Prague and in 1940 joined the Berlin Philharmonic.
Challenges and Triumphs:
After World War II, the situation in Czechoslovakia changed dramatically, leading to the expulsion and displacement of Germans from the country. Much of Bohemia was populated by German speakers and they were expelled in droves. After the war, Adolf was subjected to internment in Prague. However, he was liberated through the advocacy of an anonymous Czech benefactor. Post-liberation, he held positions in Pressburg (Bratislava) and eventually found his way to West Germany.
Reviving Baroque Trumpet Virtuosity:
Scherbaum's achievements in reviving baroque trumpet virtuosity are noteworthy. His mastery of the 2nd Brandenburg Concerto, previously deemed unplayable, showcased his innovative techniques and the introduction of the first high B trumpet. This accomplishment positioned him as a unique figure in the classical music world. Additionally, Scherbaum gained recognition for his mastery of the piccolo trumpet with four valves, a unique feature that differed from the standard three valves. Playing this instrument presented a more challenging physical task, requiring precision and accuracy to bring out its distinctive tones.
Teaching and Legacy:
Scherbaum's impact extended to teaching at the Staatliche Hochschule für Musik in Saarbrücken in 1964. His commitment to music education continued when he became a trumpet teacher at the Musikschule Sulzbach-Rosenberg in 1977. This phase, which lasted until 1986, proved to be one of his most cherished periods, where he imparted his knowledge to eager students and the community.
Awards and Recognition:
Throughout his career, Scherbaum received numerous accolades, including the Edison Prize in 1965 and the Albert Schweitzer Peace Medal in 1979. Encountering videos featuring individuals named Adolf and witnessing the positive comments, especially from those who express gratitude for their role as students or acquaintances of Adolf Scherbaum, is a source of joy. These instances serve as powerful testimonials, showcasing that the name "Adolf" can indeed be redeemed through the positive contributions and impact of individuals who bear it.
International Tours and Legacy:
In 1962/1963, Scherbaum embarked on a tour of North America, showcasing his talents as a soloist with various orchestras. His performances were met with acclaim, solidifying his status as a distinguished trumpeter. Despite facing the challenges of the music industry and the ever-changing world around him, Scherbaum continued to inspire audiences with his virtuosity.
Final Notes:
Adolf Scherbaum's musical journey concluded in 2000, just a few days before his 91st birthday, in Sulzbach-Rosenberg. His legacy lives on through the notes of his trumpet and the countless students he mentored. As I reflect on my unexpected encounter with this remarkable musician during my visit to Cheb, I am reminded that the name Adolf, with all its historical weight, can also be associated with the enduring beauty of art and the power of human resilience in the face of challenges.
https://web.archive.org/web/20170131113350/http://www.asamnet.de/~bayerj/scherb/100-geburtstag/scherbaum-schueler-josef-kneil/index.htm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rm5sfAsGBTU&t=304s&ab_channel=TruePowerTrumpet