2027 Summer Trombone Academy

What is the Academy?

The Sharp Studios Summer Trombone Academy is a place for eager trombonists to collaborate on a recital while developing their instrumental technique, musicality, leadership, and collaborative skills. Participants will prepare and perform solos, chamber music, and trombone choir selections. The academy features three different groups which tailor to each student’s needs.

June 1 - June 15, 2027

1-on-1 Private Lessons

Individual instruction focused on technique, musicianship, and solo repertoire. Lessons are taught by academy director Sebastian Alvarez, and other professional trombonists in the Houston area.

Trombone Choir & Chamber Music

Group instruction where staff will coach and guide students through the skills required to succeed in a self-directed chamber ensemble. Students will also participate in a trombone choir under the direction of Mr. Alvarez.

Recital & Performance

Students perform solo repertoire accompanied by a professional pianist, perform in chamber ensembles, and perform in their group’s trombone choir.

Ensembles

  • Students who place in the Advanced group will collaborate on a final recital featuring advanced level solos, chamber music, and trombone choir selections.

    Each week, participants will receive-

    • One private lesson

    • Two trombone choir rehearsals

    • Two chamber music coaching sessions

    • Two masterclasses where the following topics may discussed- Solo performance, Orchestral playing, professional soloist and ensemble recordings, future planning, careers in music, and audition preparation.

      Recorded audition is required for placement in the Advanced group.

  • Students who place in the Intermediate group will collaborate on a final recital featuring advanced level solos, chamber music, and trombone choir selections.

    Each week, participants will receive-

    • One private lesson

    • Two trombone choir rehearsals

    • Two chamber music coaching sessions

    • Two masterclasses where the following topics may discussed- Solo performance, Ensemble skills, leadership in a group setting, audition preparation, and productive practice methods.

      Recorded audition is required for placement in the Intermediate group.

  • The Novice group is open to all applicants without need to audition. Students in this group will collaborate on a trombone choir selection and be introduced to ensemble skills such as time, intonation, and balance. The Novice group will meet once per week and it is perfect for middle school aged students with very busy summer schedules.

    How to apply to the Novice group—

    Simply fill out the application form below. Please apply at your earliest convenience. Participation in the novice group will be reserved on a first come basis.

Application Form

How to Apply, 2 steps!

Step 1-

Please fill out this Application Form. If you are applying to the Novice group, you are all done! If you are auditioning for the Intermediate and Advanced groups, please continue with Step 2.

Step 2-

Submit your audition materials by December 15, 2026. Please send your recordings as a Google Drive link to Auditions@SharpMusicStudios.com

If you have any questions, please contact Sebastian@SharpMusicStudios.com

Audition Requirements

  • 1. TMEA Etude #1
    Beginning through the downbeat of measure 25

    2. TMEA Etude #2
    Beginning through the downbeat of measure 14

    3. Chromatic Scale
    Perform a chromatic scale that best represents your current range capabilities.

    4. Optional Selection
    One additional etude, solo, or excerpt, 3 minutes maximum. This can only help your audition and is not required.

  • 1. TMEA Etude #1 — Page 22
    Beginning through the downbeat of measure 33

    2. TMEA Etude #2 — Page 4
    Beginning through the downbeat of measure 17

    3. Chromatic Scale
    Perform a chromatic scale that best represents your current range capabilities.

    4. Optional Selection
    One additional etude, solo, or excerpt, 3 minutes maximum. This can only help your audition and is not required.

  • 1. All-Region Etude #1 and #2

    OR

    A complete solo from “Trombone Gems” by Vandercook

    2. Chromatic Scale
    Perform a chromatic scale that best represents your range capabilities.

    3. Optional Selection
    One additional etude, solo, or excerpt, 3 minutes maximum. This can only help your audition and is not required.

Program Details

  • The Academy will run from June 1 through July 15, 2027, with weekly private lessons, ensemble rehearsals, chamber music, and final performances at the conclusion of the program.

    • Tuition for the Advanced and Intermediate group is $1,350.

    • Tuition for the Novice group is $600.

    Tuition includes all instruction, activities, and materials. A limited amount of need-based scholarship assistance may be available depending on individual family circumstances.

    There is no cost to apply/ audition!

  • All students from 6th through 12th grade are encouraged to submit a free application!

    Students who are looking for a summer of meaningful musical growth should consider applying and submitting a video audition to place in the Intermediate or Advanced group.

    Students who would like to continue making music with other trombonists while maintaining their skills should consider applying to the novice group.

  • The academy is set to take place at the Weekley Community Center in Cypress, TX.

2026 Sharp Studios Summer Academy Highlights