“GE hires a lot of engineers. We want young people who can do more than add up a string of numbers and write a coherent sentence. They must be able to solve problems, communicate ideas and be sensitive to the world around them. Participation in the arts is one of the best ways to develop these abilities.”
Recently I had the opportunity to work with two customers who own very well made contrabass trombones. One was a beautiful Kanstul, and the other was a pristine Jurgen Voigt contrabass trombone. Like saxophones, the trombone comes in many different registers or voices that mirror vocal ranges. The most popular type of trombone is the tenor trombone, but soprano, alto, bass, and contrabass trombones exist and are used professionally. A misunderstood instrument, many are under the false impression that the contrabass trombone is a slide tuba. It is actually just a larger, lower trombone pitched in the key of F instead of the typical key of Bb.
We share “Music Truths” a couple of times a week that focus on all of the benefits that students gain from participating in school music. This time on our student spotlight, the students of the SYO share a few things that they’ve learned along the way that will benefit them in the future.
The vast majority – 96 percent – of the school principals interviewed in a recent study agree that participation in music education encourages and motivates students to stay in school. Further, 89 percent of principals feel that a high-quality music education program contributes to their school achieving higher graduation rates.
At Paige’s Music we get asked all the time if we teach lessons or know people who do. We know plenty of private instructors and even have a list on our website, but we wanted to go a little further and interview them so you have a better picture of which teacher might be best for you! This week’s featured teacher is Mr. Jay Ellsmore.
Where did you go to school?
I received my undergrad in performance from the Lawrence University Conservatory of Music. There I studied with Robert Levy for one year and John Daniel for three years. I also studied conducting under Andrew Mast. I then got my masters in performance from the University of Northern Colorado, studying with Robert Murray.
We recommend that you send your instrument in for a check-up at least 2 times a year to keep it in proper playing condition. And what better time to do that then during summer break while you may have some down time. And if you need a loaner to use while we have your instrument, we have you covered.*
Bring your instrument by our store M-F 10-6 and Sat. 10-4, or give us a call to see if we have visits scheduled for your school over the summer. Have questions? Call us at 1.317.577.3415 or drop us an email at repair@paigesmusic.com.
Enjoy your time off and don’t forget to practice!
*Loaner instruments guaranteed for all active rentals and service policies only. Loaners for general repair customers dependent upon our loaner instrument inventory.
“I believe arts education in music, theater, dance, and the visual arts is one of the most creative ways we have to find the gold that is buried just beneath the surface. They (children) have an enthusiasm for life a spark of creativity, and vivid imaginations that need training – training that prepares them to become confident young men and women.”
Credit: Zack Smith Photography
Delfeayo Marsalis stands as one of today’s forefront jazz trombonists. An NEA Jazz Master, Marsalis brings both heritage and innovation to the instrument. His robust and pure sound draws influence from jazz greats of the swing and bebop eras while contributing his own unique personality. His playing is filled with grace, humor, and technical virtuosity.