The Trombone Retreat

Send us Fan MailPrayers for Meyer Facebook PageDonate to St. Jude Children's Research HospitalFollow the University of Arkansas Trombone StudioCleveland Institute of Music Summer Brass Lab2026 Third Coast Trombone RetreatHost, Sebastian Vera travels to Arkansas where he interviews Dr. Cory Mixdorf on his joy of teaching and what we learn from life's most unexpected trials.00:00 Podcast Kickoff00:24 Timothée Quote Debate02:09 Opera and Ballet Defense04:04 Corey McDo Interview Tease04:59 Retreat and Camp Announcements07:31 Meet Corey in Arkansas08:39 Traveling With Trombones11:03 Trombone Day and Studio Culture13:08 Corey’s Trombone Origins14:00 Iowa Roots and Early Success16:34 College and Teacher Carousel17:54 Gap Year and Early Teaching20:04 Family Life and Marriage Story21:44 Choosing Teaching vs Performing24:31 Tenure Lessons Learned27:12 Pandemic Teaching Outdoors28:15 Post Pandemic Student Maturity28:59 Freshmen Struggling Post COVID30:00 Teachers as Part Time Therapists31:21 Mentorship Beyond Trombone36:48 Building a Studio Culture37:47 Sabbatical Pedagogy Tour40:49 Aha Takeaways and Growth Mindset45:20 Meyers Brain Tumor Diagnosis48:21 Chemo Stem Cells and Pandemic Life54:12 Family Resilience and New Perspective58:27 Recurrence Anxiety and St Jude01:03:13 St Jude Costs Explained01:03:40 Balancing Work and Treatment01:05:07 Trombone Community Steps Up01:06:12 Second Round Family Strain01:08:31 Support Systems and Helping01:09:59 Scan Anxiety and Resilience01:12:26 Sticky Note Window Art01:14:19 Healthcare Empathy Heroes01:16:18 Lessons and Perspective Shift01:20:26 Rapid Fire Advice and Gear01:25:19 Life Offstage Family and Pets01:29:13 Closing Thanks and LinksAlso introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWatch the video of this interview on our YouTube channel!In this episode of the Trombone Retreat podcast from the Third Coast Trombone Retreat, hosts Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz have an engaging conversation with Jeff Dee, principal bass trombonist of the Pittsburgh Symphony. They discuss Jeff's unique journey in music, from his humble beginnings as a young trombone player to his prestigious performances with world-renowned orchestras. Jeff shares stories about his time in Shanghai, overcoming significant challenges, and the critical influences and experiences that shaped his career. They also dive into technical aspects of performance, teaching strategies, and Jeff’s personal interests, including his audio equipment hobby and extensive vinyl collection. The conversation is filled with insightful advice for young musicians and amusing anecdotes, making it a compelling listen for all music enthusiasts.00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings00:42 Discussing New Year's Traditions01:45 Interview with Jeff D: Beginnings and Career08:07 Jeff's Journey to Music School10:42 Challenges and Triumphs in Music Education23:43 From SMU to Julliard: A Path to Excellence33:57 Experiences in Shanghai and Jacksonville45:22 The Bolero Challenge46:53 Navigating Auditions and Career Moves48:44 Mindset and Preparation for Success55:33 The Pittsburgh Symphony Experience01:06:29 Adapting to Visual Challenges01:11:38 Audiophile Adventures01:19:20 Rapid Fire and ReflectionsAlso introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if confidence isn’t a mystery, but a practice you can schedule? We sit down with trombonist and educator Brittany Lasch to explore how a teen who left high school early for Manhattan School of Music became a sought-after soloist, Detroit Opera principal, and assistant professor at Indiana University. From a Star Wars spark to deep mentorship with Per Brevig and the late Steve Norrell, Britt shares how fundamentals, buzzing, and musical curiosity shaped her sound—and how honest conversations about performance anxiety, including the careful use of beta blockers with medical guidance, unlocked the ability to perform under pressure.We dig into the real engine of growth: reps that matter. Weekly mock auditions, steady coaching, and deliberate listening create familiarity that quiets nerves. Britt explains why younger players who live in that cycle often win, and why today’s students must go beyond playlists to know the repertoire, orchestras, and players by name. We also zoom out: a pandemic-era Götterdämmerung staged in a parking garage, a life lifted by animal rescue (yes, that viral Dodo feature), and a marathon habit that translates directly to stage stamina. Endurance, boundaries, and identity beyond the horn keep the work sustainable.You’ll hear practical strategies for managing auditions, teaching insights from the IU studio and its selective trombone choir, and new recital repertoire worth adding to your list. It’s a warm, candid tour of a modern brass career: part orchestra, part soloist, part studio leader, and wholly grounded in resilient habits. If you’re ready to build confidence the reliable way—one thoughtful rep at a time—press play, subscribe, and share this with a friend who needs a nudge. Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailFollow the Trombone Retreat on YouTube and watch this episode!Interview with Jazz Trombonist of the Year Michael Dease | Third Coast Trombone Retreat PodcastWelcome to the Trombone Retreat podcast by the Third Coast Trombone Retreat. In this episode, hosts Sebastian Vera and Nicholas Schwartz welcome distinguished jazz artist Michael Dease, who was named Downbeat Magazine's 2025 Trombonist of the Year. They discuss Dease's journey in music, highlights from his career, and his experiences as a multifaceted musician proficient in several instruments. Dease shares insights about his teaching philosophy, his recording projects, and his recent Guggenheim Fellowship, along with his personal anecdotes and favorite gear. Enjoy an engaging conversation filled with wisdom and humor, perfect for any music enthusiast.Experience JSV Mouthpieces: https://houghtonhorns.com/products/verus-sebastian-vera-tenor-trombone-mouthpiece-verusjsv00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement00:29 Reflecting on the Interview01:23 Product Promotion and Banter02:19 Reconnecting with Michael Deese02:45 Memorable Moments and Bourbon03:27 Travel Plans and Upcoming Gigs04:45 Discussing 'City Life' Album08:27 Musical Journey and Instrument Mastery18:49 Jazz Education and Career Reflections31:29 Guggenheim Project and Future Plans39:52 Sterling Silver Mouthpiece40:26 The Allure of Precious Metals in Music41:24 Exploring Different Mouthpiece Materials43:06 The Sterling Silver Mouthpiece Experiment44:14 Spontaneity in Music and Life44:32 Custom Mouthpieces and Their Impact45:50 Rapid Fire Questions46:24 Reflecting on Personal and Musical Growth54:05 The Future of Jazz Trombone56:02 The Influence of Horror Movies on Music57:42 The Importance of Trust in Teaching01:00:23 Closing Thoughts and FarewellsAlso introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailNick and Sebastian visit jolly England to visit the British Trombone Festival. While there they had a chance to sit down with Peter Moore, the prodigious trombonist whose career drew great attention from the age of only 12 years old! From his beginnings in brass bands to his breakthrough on the BBC Young Musician stage, Peter's story is one of talent, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of musical excellence. We traverse through his early days, the pressures of performing on television, and his iconic fashion choices that marked his early performances. With witty exchanges about American and British terminology sprinkled throughout, this episode captures the essence of Peter’s vibrant personality and the passion he holds for his craft.Our discussion then moves to the intricacies of Peter's career, including his transformative experience with the London Symphony Orchestra. He candidly shares the emotional rollercoaster of balancing professional commitments with personal growth, and the unforeseen opportunities that shaped his path. We explore the challenges of transitioning from an orchestral role to the uncertainties of a solo career, underscoring the mental strength required to chase new ambitions. Peter’s reflections offer profound insights into the world of professional musicianship, highlighting both the exhilaration and the solitude that come with the territory.We wrap up with a forward-looking perspective on Peter's upcoming projects, including new works, albums, and a tour across the United States. This episode is a joyride through the world of trombone performance, exploring the art of musical expression and the global community that defines it. With anecdotes, advice, and a shared love for the trombone, it’s a celebration of music, passion, and the shared quest for artistic communication. Whether you’re a seasoned trombone enthusiast or new to the brass scene, this conversation with Peter Moore is sure to resonate and inspire.Thank you to the leadership of the British Trombone Society and Festival and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire for inviting us with special thanks going to Simon Minshall, Rupert Whitehead and Edward Jones!Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreatHosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comAlso introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWe're now on YouTube! Enjoy this episode with our new enhanced video content on our YouTube channel, please like and subscribe!!Join us for an inspiring conversation with the legendary trombonist Ian Bousfield as we navigate through the vibrant realm of trombone music. Ian shares his incredible journey in an engaging discussion on the transformative power of music in an unforgettable exploration of musical connections and experiences.Our discussion unfolds the unexpected bonds formed through podcasting, illustrating how stories and respectful discourse can bridge diverse backgrounds. Ian reflects on how podcasting became a therapeutic platform during COVID, offering a space to share opinions and connect with a global audience. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding music within its cultural context, drawing parallels with wine tasting, and appreciating unique musical interpretations. Insights into the dynamics of conducting in different regions and the evolving definition of musical success provide a deeper understanding of the art form.Furthermore, Ian reveals the emotional depth and familial influences that shape a musician's legacy. He shares touching stories of nurturing resilience in children, balancing a demanding career with family life, and inspiring the next generation of musicians. Through candid anecdotes, Ian recounts pivotal career moments and the enduring friendships formed along the way, from the London Symphony Orchestra to the Vienna Philharmonic. This episode is a celebration of music's profound impact on personal and professional life, encapsulating the shared experiences that unite the global trombone community.Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIf you're like us you've been blown away hearing our next guest at some point in your life. Join us for an eye-opening conversation with the legendary Wycliffe Gordon as he shares his musical journey from rural Georgia to performing with the greats like Wynton Marsalis. You’ll learn how early influences, particularly gospel music and church experiences, shaped his unique sound and expressive style. Wycliffe’s captivating stories and personal anecdotes will transport you to his formative years and beyond, offering a glimpse into the life and mind of a true jazz icon.In this episode, host Sebastian Vera is joined by special guest co-host Hakeem Bilal(@hakeembilalmusic)! live at the 53rd International Trombone Festival in Fort Worth, Texas. We discuss the importance of musical festivals in fostering a sense of community among musicians and igniting passion in students and professionals alike. Discussing the enriching experiences and the unique energy of performing for fellow trombonists, we explore how these gatherings shape musicianship and camaraderie. More importantly though, we discuss the profound impact Whataburger has had on our lives. Wycliffe Gordon’s narrative takes us through his early attempts at piano, his transformative college years at Florida A&M, and his significant encounters with jazz legends that propelled his career. From practicing in the rain with the Marching 100 to receiving a life-changing call from Wynton Marsalis, Wycliffe’s stories are a testament to dedication, resilience, and the power of mentorship. We wrap up by celebrating his immense contributions to the trombone community and eagerly anticipate his future performances. Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailEver wondered what it's like to pack up your life's work and plant roots in new academic soil? Join me as I chat with the tenacious Jonathan Whitaker about his joys, philosophies and his surprising decision to move from the University of Alabama to the University of Illinois in an episode brimming with stories of growth. This conversation is a candid look into the intricate dance of teaching music.  We explore the fascinating dynamics that bond educators and students. Delight in tales that span from the humor in navigating student-teacher relationships all while maintaining the delicate balance of personal pursuits, like celebrating a dog's special day or nurturing a passion for photography.Wrapping up our auditory feast, we reflect on how hobbies, like capturing the Milky Way or perfecting a golf swing, can harmonize with a demanding career to compose a well-rounded life. Witness our heartfelt musings on embracing change, the significance of perseverance, and the legacy left by mentors like Lance LaDuke. It's an episode that weaves gratitude and humor into a retreat from the ordinary. Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWe spider-man meme with the Trombone Corner Podcast, an episode long overdue. Nick and Sebastian greet John Snell and Noah Gladstone and have an amazing discussion on the evolution of their friendship, careers and joys of mouthpiece making. Noah goes in depth about his varies endeavors including the Brass Ark, Hollywood Scoring, his studio career and love of collecting. This is the episode all you gear heads have been waiting for, enjoy!Check out our interview on their podcast everywhere you download you podcasts at Trombone Corner Podcast Follow Bob Reeves on Instagram @bobreevesbrassFollow Noah @noahgladstoneFollow the Brass Ark at @thebrassarkThe long-awaited limited edition first batch JSV Signature Mouthpieces by Verus are now available for pre-order at Houghton Horns! Use limited time pre-sale offer code JSVPRESALE for 10% off at checkout! Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn his first podcast interview, Trombone Timo aka Tim Maines as we've always known him hangs with Nick and Sebastian and describes his crazy world of trombone in social media. We talk about how he went about building his prodigious following, his goals with his platform (you might be surprised), the power social media can have to galvanize arts organizations and how underutilized it still is!We talk about his summers at the Trombone Retreat getting lost and causing a stir with small businesses and how we're not shocked he's doing what he's doing.  Limited edition first batch JSV Signature Mouthpieces by Verus are now available for pre-order at Houghton Horns! Use limited time pre-sale offer code JSVPRESALE for 10% off at checkout! Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreatLearn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)Produced and edited by Sebastian VeraMusic: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick SchwartzThank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.comSupport the show