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Send us a text Watch 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 Greetings 00:42 Discussing New Year's Traditions 01:45 Interview with Jeff D: Beginnings and Career 08:07 Jeff's Journey to Music School 10:42 Challenges and Triumphs in Music Education 23:43 From SMU to Julliard: A Path to Excellence 33:57 Experiences in Shanghai and Jacksonville 45:22 The Bolero Challenge 46:53 Navigating Auditions and Career Moves 48:44 Mindset and Preparation for Success 55:33 The Pittsburgh Symphony Experience 01:06:29 Adapting to Visual Challenges 01:11:38 Audiophile Adventures 01:19:20 Rapid Fire and Reflections Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text What 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/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text Follow the Trombone Retreat on YouTube and watch this episode! Interview with Jazz Trombonist of the Year Michael Dease | Third Coast Trombone Retreat Podcast Welcome 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-verusjsv 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement 00:29 Reflecting on the Interview 01:23 Product Promotion and Banter 02:19 Reconnecting with Michael Deese 02:45 Memorable Moments and Bourbon 03:27 Travel Plans and Upcoming Gigs 04:45 Discussing 'City Life' Album 08:27 Musical Journey and Instrument Mastery 18:49 Jazz Education and Career Reflections 31:29 Guggenheim Project and Future Plans 39:52 Sterling Silver Mouthpiece 40:26 The Allure of Precious Metals in Music 41:24 Exploring Different Mouthpiece Materials 43:06 The Sterling Silver Mouthpiece Experiment 44:14 Spontaneity in Music and Life 44:32 Custom Mouthpieces and Their Impact 45:50 Rapid Fire Questions 46:24 Reflecting on Personal and Musical Growth 54:05 The Future of Jazz Trombone 56:02 The Influence of Horror Movies on Music 57:42 The Importance of Trust in Teaching 01:00:23 Closing Thoughts and Farewells Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text Nick 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/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text We'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/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text If 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/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text Ever 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/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text We 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 @bobreevesbrass Follow Noah @noahgladstone Follow the Brass Ark at @thebrassark The 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/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text In 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/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text For the first Fifth Position of the new year, Nick and Sebastian are joined by their favorite Michigander Dutchman Chris Van Hof, professor of trombone at Ball State University and Grand Poobah Assistant Manager of the International Trombone Festival. We start by announcing guest artists for this summer's Third Coast Trombone Retreat! We then give our thoughts on the movie "Maestro" as well as debating our top five cheap beers. Ever wondered if Stanley mugs could be the new Beanie Babies? Wrapping things up, we muse over the perks of social media sabbaticals, the bygone era of messenger pigeons, and the thrills of performing a co-commissioned concerto. It's an episode peppered with Tex-Mex cravings, an invitation to connect (don't be shy to share your own stories!), and a warm reminder of the camaraderie within our music-filled world. Lastly, we pay tribute to our late colleague Lance LaDuke, whose impact on our community will be missed immeasurably. Check out the International Trombone Festival at www.internationaltrombonefestival.com Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text Can a beard and bow tie truly alter the landscape of a performance? In today's episode, we tackle these questions head-on. We commence on a somber note, sharing news and sending love to our dear friend Lance LaDuke after his scary accejent. We urge you to send your prayers and positive energy his way. Amidst this hardship, we underscore the beauty in finding joy in the smallest of things. Bolo ties, beards, weird gig offers, art deserts, chubby cheeks FUNdamentals, merch ideas, and gratitude in this wee 's Fifth Position.  Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what happens when two working musicians try to podcast at 8am? Today, Nick and Seba tian take you behind the scenes of these performances, sharing heartwarming stories that made the audience's holiday experience even more meaningful. We also reveal the new title for this short-form series - yes, you've voted and we've listened!  We then explore the path of making a career in music and how it can wonderfully translate to other professions. Topics include: children interacting with tubas, what to say to people after an audition, what to do if your colleague is lacking, answering listener questions, Sebastian's obsession with first class and more!  Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text It's just about Thanksgiving so we have another delicious episode to be thankful for! Have you ever been struck by the strength difference between your left and right arm?  We also find ourselves reminiscing about childhood experiences of pilfering balls from ball pits and the shock of static electricity from plastic slides. Plus, we're on the hunt for a title for our podcast series, and we want you to be a part of it.  Diving further into the trombone world, we share a heartwarming story of a septuagenarian who took up the trombone following a dream. Not to mention, we tackle a listener questions and the amazing trombone quora of the week.  As we gear up for Thanksgiving, the conversation turns to the challenges trombone players face in orchestras and our frustrations over conductors failing to make the best use of our time and round it out with new gratitude. Lastly, we bring you up to speed on our podcast updates. Lesssgo!  Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text Who knew that finding a suitable name for a podcast could take us on a roller coaster of creativity? Nick and Sebastian sift through all of your brilliant suggestions.  We also talk about trombone MacGyver moments in the clutch, trombone google keyword news, submitted questions about breaking in a slide, gripe of the week, how a trombone is best used as a weapon, Bach therapy, beauty in the world and most likely more.  Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show

Send us a text We're doing something new! What is it? Great question! But it's new! So that's cool, right? Introducing Nick and Sebastian's first new weekly pod where they talk about trombone news, weekly gripes, answer questions and much more! Today we're lifting the lid on the long-debated topic of cut bells on trombones and also call out some bad personnel manager behavior. Lastly, we get into how the world is finally realizing that trombonists are the best lovers.  Email us questions and ideas at [email protected] Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat Learn 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 Vera Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com Support the show