Private lessons offer a personalized learning environment where students can focus on their chosen instrument. In addition, private lessons allow students to develop their skills with one-on-one guidance from their instructor. Each brass instrument presents unique challenges, and NSSOTA’s professional teachers create individualized lesson plans to address these needs. Our goal: to ensure students build a strong foundation in both technique and music theory.

Tuba

As the largest and lowest-pitched brass instrument, the tuba provides the deep, foundational bass line in ensembles and orchestras. Learning to play the tuba involves mastering proper breath support, posture, and finger technique. Students focus on reading bass clef as the tuba’s music is typically written in this format. Additionally, NSSOTA instructors will teach students how to develop the strength and control needed to produce clear, rich tones. In the end, resulting in fun, engaging lessons.

French Horn

The French horn is known for its circular shape and warm, mellow tone. It requires precise embouchure and control due to its intricate tubing and higher range. Accordingly, NSSOTA instructors guide students through the complexities of learning the horn. Example, students will practice hand positioning in the bell and breathing techniques to create smooth transitions between notes. French horn players will learn to read treble clef. Finally, horn lessons will allow students to develop a solid understanding of pitch accuracy. Allowing them to play solo or with groups – with rich in-tune tonality.

Trombone

The trombone is distinct among brass instruments because of its sliding valve mechanism. Specifically, the sliding valve allows players to adjust pitch by moving the slide to different positions. Consequently, learning the trombone involves developing a strong sense of  pitch. Namely, ear training.  This allows players to hit the correct pitch, as the trombone has no defined “valve positions” like other brass instruments. Hence, NSSOTA’s instructors help students focus on these key trombone skills: slide technique, intonation, and music phrasing. Finally, trombone students will learn to read both bass and tenor clefs as they explore classical and contemporary repertoire.

Trumpet

The trumpet is the smallest and highest-pitched brass instrument, known for its bright, clear sound. Trumpet lessons at NSSOTA emphasize developing strong embouchure control, finger dexterity for the valves, and breath management. The trumpet requires students to learn to read treble clef. Equipped with this skill, instructors work with students to acquire a range of ways to sonically play the trumpet. Overall, trumpet students will explore a wide range of classical, jazz and contemporary music.

Euphonium

The euphonium is similar to the baritone saxophone in size and shape, with a mellow, low-pitched sound that sits between the tuba and the trombone in terms of range. NSSOTA’s euphonium instructors guide students through mastering finger technique for the valves and developing the breath support needed to sustain long, low notes. Euphonium students will learn to read bass clef and will explore both solo repertoire and ensemble playing, where the euphonium often carries important melodic lines.

NSSOTA offers virtual and in-home lessons, allowing students to learn brass instruments from the comfort of their home. Virtual lessons use secure platforms, enabling instructors to provide real-time feedback on technique, posture, and sound production. For students with busy schedules or transportation challenges, virtual lessons offer the flexibility to continue their musical education without compromising on quality.

In-home lessons bring the instructor directly to the student’s home, offering personalized guidance in a familiar environment. This option is ideal for families who prefer a convenient, flexible approach while ensuring students receive the same professional instruction they would receive in a traditional classroom setting.

New Song School of the Arts provides ample opportunities for brass students to perform in front of an audience. For example, this can happen whether in group settings or as part of recitals. Consequently, these performances help build confidence and stage presence, which are essential skills for any musician. Finally, students in both private and group lessons will be invited to showcase their progress during recitals held in the school’s Recital Hall or Black Box Theater. Additionally, group lessons often culminate in ensemble performances, where students can experience the thrill of playing with others in a live setting.

In addition to teaching technical aspects of each instrument, NSSOTA’s brass instructors place a strong emphasis on music literacy. Hence, reading music is an essential skill for all musicians. Brass players will learn how to read treble, bass, and tenor clefs, depending on their instrument. Initially, lessons begin with simple exercises and progress to more complex pieces as students advance. Over time, instructors cover the basics of note reading, rhythms, dynamics, and articulation. This ensures that students have a comprehensive understanding of how to interpret and perform music.

Furthermore, NSSOTA also integrates music theory into lessons. This helps students understand the structure of the pieces they are playing. This includes learning about chords, scales, and musical forms, which are crucial for both solo and ensemble performance.

Learning a brass instrument at New Song School of the Arts offers students of all ages a comprehensive and supportive musical education. So, why start today? Your goal as a beginner or advanced player is the answer. Whether you are a first timer or preparing for a school band, ensemble, orchestra, or contemporary band, we have the class for you. The sooner you join, the sooner you’ll be making better brass music! Whatever instrument you’re interested in – and there are dozens to choose from –  NSSOTA’s expert instructors will guide you through the process of learning and mastering your instrument.