Trombone at Arts Academy

Why Study Trombone at Interlochen

The mighty trombone has long expressed the spirit of heroes, villains, and deities with its rich, resonant tone. At our boarding school for trombone, you'll master the full range of the instrument, exploring its use in diverse musical genres. Learn why the trombone is gaining popularity as a solo and ensemble instrument.

What You'll Learn

Whether you play the bass or tenor trombone, our offerings will help you shine both as an individual musician and as a member of an ensemble.

Our combination of studio classes, private lessons, and small and large ensembles will give you the individual attention you need to soar. You’ll learn music theory, musicianship, fundamental basics, and performance skills with our dedicated instructors. You’ll understand the importance of daily practice and develop the discipline you need to take your talent to the next level.

How to Apply

Audition Requirements

Meet the Faculty

Tom Riccobono

Chair of Brass; Instructor of Low Brass

Learn more about Thomas Riccobono, the Academy’s low brass instruments instructor, or browse the entire Academy Music faculty.

All faculty

Trombone Lesson: How to practice the Berlioz Hungarian March excerpt

Interlochen Arts Academy Instructor of Low Brass Tom Riccobono demonstrates Berlioz's Hungarian March and shares strategies for practicing this commonly performed excerpt.

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Nicole Abissi, Broadway artist
Joseph Alessi, New York Philharmonic
Brad Edwards, Arizona State University
Mark Lusk, Penn State University
John Marcellus, University of Rochester (ret.)
Seraph Brass, all-female brass quintet
Colin Williams, New York Philharmonic

Program Highlights

Professional Experiences

The Interlochen Arts Academy orchestra and wind symphony ensembles have played with the New York Philharmonic, performed at Carnegie Hall and New World Center, collaborated with the Traverse Symphony Orchestra, and attended the International Trombone Festival. Our resources allow for unparalleled experiences at the high school level.

Performance Opportunities

Trombone players audition to perform in multiple Interlochen performing ensembles, including: orchestra, wind symphony, brass quintet, jazz band, jazz combo, and tuba/euphonium quartet. Learn more in our Explore Ensembles section below.

The Music Center

Our state-of-the-art 60,000 square-foot music facility has two 3,500 square-foot rehearsal halls, two recording studios which allow for rehearsal and performance recordings in multiple venues on campus with multiple ensemble and practice rooms, and individual faculty teaching studios. Learn more about The Music Center.

Chamber

Assembled at the faculty's discretion, chamber music ensembles are offered as electives in the Music division. Each ensemble is coached by one of the Arts Academy's acclaimed instrumental faculty.

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Orchestra

A recipient of the American Prize, the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra performs an advanced repertoire that includes symphonies, concerti, contemporary works, and original compositions.

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Wind Symphony

The American Prize-winning Interlochen Arts Academy Wind Symphony presents a diverse and challenging repertoire in regular live, prerecorded, and public radio performances.

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Popular Music

Named for iconic backing bands of the 21st century, the Popular Music Ensembles provide hands-on learning opportunities for aspiring contemporary musicians.

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In these short months, I have improved more as a player than I did in the last year of my schooling. My favorite thing about the Academy is the ability to have weekly lessons. Mr. Riccobono is a fantastic teacher, and I have had many amazing breakthroughs in my playing on essentially a weekly basis.

Theo, Music