Jeffrey S.

I hold a Master of Music Performance from Texas Tech University, along with a Bachelor of Music Performance and a Bachelor of Music Education from New Mexico State University. This extensive formal education has equipped me with a deep understanding of music theory, pedagogy, and performance, providing a solid foundation for teaching a wide range of musical styles and instruments.

My professional career has been greatly influenced by my studies with two of the most distinguished trombonists in the industry: Professor James Decker and Professor Allan Kaplan. Professor Decker is an Associate Professor of Trombone at Texas Tech University, and a principal with the Lubbock Symphony. My work with Professor Kaplan, a professor at my alma mater, New Mexico State University, has also been instrumental to my development as a musician and educator. This work with two masters gave me an unparalleled foundation in both classical music and pedagogy, providing me with the versatility to excel in any musical setting.

Beyond my over decade-long experience as a high school music teacher, my relationship with music is defined by a unique blend of formal training and diverse professional performance. I've had the privilege of performing on bass trombone with orchestras such as the Lubbock Symphony and Roswell Symphony, demonstrating my mastery of classical and symphonic works. My experience extends beyond the concert hall, however, as I've also performed at South By Southwest in Austin and with Bones Southwest in Phoenix, showcasing my versatility and ability to thrive in a broader range of musical settings. This experience across different genres and venues allows me to provide students with a well-rounded and practical approach to musicianship.

For over a decade, I served as a high school music teacher, where I developed and delivered comprehensive curricula in a wide variety of subjects including low brass, guitar, and piano. My teaching approach focused on providing students with both technical proficiency and a passion for music. I directed numerous ensembles and performances, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment that prepared my students for a lifetime of musical enjoyment.