Trombone Lessons
WHY TROMBONE?
Versatile, Unique, and Fun!
The trombone is one of the most versitile wind instruments and - almost without exception - can be found in jazz ensembles, pop music groups, traditional orchestras, and concert bands. Its nearly irreplaceable nature stems from the unique design and sound qualities of the instrument and set it apart from even its closest brass relatives. Mastering the trombone can prove quite difficult at times; however, accomplishing a high level of proficiency on this instrument brings with it a satisfaction which is hard to duplicate. Besides the versatility and unique nature of the trombone, it is by far one of the most fun instruments to play! Natural enjoyment of an instrument is the easiest way to propel a student's motivation in practicing and learning something new.
Playing trombone (as with any instrument) also provides a unique outlet for students of any age to express emotions and ideas that may not be able to be expressed in any other way. Playing an instrument has been proven time and time again to relieve stress, increase productivity, and provide a healthier emotional status in both young and old.
WHAT AGES ARE APPROPRIATE?
It's Never Too Late to Start!
Many people wonder how young or old a person should be in order to start playing the trombone. For older learners, the answer is simple - there is no age limit! Studies on music therapy and the effect music has on older teens, adults, and the elderly have always come back with the same results: music benefits all ages! Starting to learn trombone as an older or younger beginner sometimes requires a bit of modification in the teaching style of the teacher; however, this is nothing to worry about and certainly still achievable!
So how young is too young? This topic has been approached by hundred of professionals, and the answers vary greatly from person to person. On average, a child who starts before the age of 10 will certainly receive emotional and similar benefits from learning; however, their actual trombone-playing skills will not necessarily improve as dramatically as they will once the child is a bit older. This lack of quick improvement in playing skills at a very young age is simply due to the fact that his or her physical body and mental state is already growing so rapidly, it leaves little room for the fine-tuning of the fine motor skills needed to play each note in a precise and musical way. Each year that the child ages leaves more and more room for learning new skills like playing an instrument. Also, the obvious physical limitations of a small child make the trombone significanly more difficult to maneuver and play until they are around ten years of age or older. Naturally, there are occasional exceptions to the average young-beginner's age of starting at 10 or so, and because of this, each child's case should be evaluated individually to see if he or she exibits any signs of being ready to learn an instrument. As a parent, it is important to remember to allow your child to develop these skills in their own time and at their own pace - diligence is key, but only if it is paired with patience!
Click on the "CONTACT" tab at the top of the page if you have more questions about what age to start trombone lessons for yourself or for your child.
EXPERIENCE
Mr. Haas began to take piano and trombone lessons at the age of 11 and 13, respectively, and continued his studies through his undergraduate years at Colorado State University. He was a finalist in the 2010 concerto competition while at CSU, performing Tchaikovsky’s 1st piano concerto, and has been awarded Special Talent and Performing Arts Scholarships for outstanding musical ability through all four graduate and undergraduate degrees.
In 2011, he then moved with his wife, Brittney, to Arizona where he completed his Master of Music degree solely in bass trombone performance. Garrett is currently ABD in his final title as Doctor of Musical Arts, again in bass trombone performance.
Through his time at Arizona State University, Mr. Haas has built a strong piano and trombone studio with students ranging in age from 5 to 65. The demand for his accompaniment has also increased significantly since moving to Arizona, and he has collaborated with musicians from almost all the musical instrument families. The numerous, glowing testimonials from the families, performers, and professors he has worked with speak volumes about Mr. Haas' outstanding musicianship and genuine personality.
WHERE ARE LESSONS HELD?
Not Just One More Thing To Think About...
Each lesson is held in the home of the student(s) being taught. Your life is busy enough as it is with careers, school and extracurricular activities, appointments, family - this should NOT be "one more thing" you have to remember to pack up yourself, the kids, and the car to go do. For families in the surrounding area (15-mile radius), there is no extra fee for the in-home lesson. If your home lies outside of this area, there will be a small travel fee included in the price which will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Also, if you have multiple people in your household interested in learning, they can easily have lessons back-to-back in order to maximize your time. Don't let silly things like an untidy home deterr you from the opportunity you and/or your child(ren) will receive from comfortable, weekly, in-home private lessons that will benefit you for a lifetime.
HOW MUCH DO LESSONS COST?
Budget-Friendly
Music lessons can be found for hundreds of different prices around the country, but many of those prices are not feasible for a family or individual on a tight budget. Because of this, Mr. Haas charges $50 for a one-hour, in-home lesson or $30 for a half-hour, in-home lesson per student. A travel fee may also be added, depending on location. Most students strive for once-a-week lessons, but fitting more than that into the regular week only helps the learner's skills improve more quickly!