Brass + percussion

Audition + apply 

Welcome to the brass + percussion area at the University of Colorado Boulder College of Music. Our program includes horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba and percussion.

Our faculty are active performers across the United States and internationally, appearing as soloists, chamber musicians and orchestral artists; they bring this ongoing professional experience directly into their teaching. Every year, we also host regular visits from distinguished guest artists, further enriching the student experience—recent guests have included the American Brass Quintet, Ian Bousfield, Julie Landsman, Marie Speziale and many others.

Graduates of our program have gone on to careers in orchestras, military ensembles, chamber groups, colleges and universities, and public school music programs worldwide. Alumni have earned positions with organizations such as the Louisiana Philharmonic, Alabama Symphony, New World Symphony, Sarajevo Philharmonic, Houston Ballet, U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” and U.S. Marine Band “The President’s Own” among many others. Our students also regularly gain admission to leading graduate programs and achieve success in major competitions including the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition, Leonard Falcone International Euphonium + Tuba Festival, National Trumpet Competition, International Trombone Association, Music Teachers National Association and the Percussive Arts Society.

As a student in the brass + percussion area, you will receive individualized instruction through private lessons and small group coaching, with a focus on solo, chamber, orchestral and jazz repertoire. You will also have opportunities to perform in a variety of larger ensembles across campus.

Studying in Colorado offers a unique balance of artistic intensity and quality of life. Surrounded by natural beauty, students often find a strong sense of inspiration beyond the practice room. Within the College of Music, the brass + percussion area fosters a close-knit, collaborative environment, offering the feel of a conservatory within the resources of a major research university.

We invite you to consider joining our community and look forward to supporting your musical growth.

Contacts

Ryan Gardner
Chair, Brass + Percussion
Professor of Trumpet
ryan.gardner-1@colorado.edu