Trombone Shorty Academy


PROGRAM DETAILS

Trombone Shorty Academy is a free, after-school music program for New Orleans youth ages 12 – 18. Following the path that led to Trombone Shorty’s success, our program is based on Danny Barker’s Fairview Baptist Church Brass Band program. Led by Artist Educators including Julian Gosin, Glenn Hall, Jasmine Bastiste, and more, students enrolled in the Trombone Shorty Academy are immersed in musical ensemble instruction while learning the history and theory that is so deeply entwined in New Orleans music. Students in the Trombone Shorty Academy should have at least one year of previous experience on their instrument in either private lessons, band/orchestra, or other community groups. 

Registration for the 2024-25 school year is now closed. Please fill out the form in this link to be informed when registration re-opens.


ELIGIBILITY:

Grades: 8 to 12

Instruments: Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Soprano Sax, Bari Sax, Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, Sousaphone, Bass Drum, Snare Drum

REQUIRED SKILLS:

Students are required to have at least one year of experience on their instrument. 

SCHEDULE:

  • Fall Semester: 
    • Monday, September 9th – Auditions
    • Monday, December 16th – Last Day of Classes for the Semester
  • Spring Semester:
    • Monday, January 27th – First Day of Spring Semester
    • Monday, May 6th – Last Day of Classes 
  • Class Time meets Weekly on Mondays from 6pm to 8pm 

TRANSPORTATION:

Trombone Shorty Academy provides transportation from students’ schools to the program location. If you need transportation assistance, please indicate this on the registration form. 

MEALS:

Trombone Shorty Academy provides participants with snacks and a meal at each class. If your child has any food allergies, please indicate them on the registration form. 

PERFORMANCES:

Trombone Shorty Academy has one performance in the fall at Tunes for Toys and several performances in the Spring, including Shorty Fest on Monday, April 28, 2025. Performance details will be shared with program participants closer to the events. 

In addition to performances within the community, Trombone Shorty Academy Level 3 classes have the opportunity to travel outside of New Orleans. Past program participants have traveled to Havana, Cuba, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York City, and Park City. 

LOCATION:

Classes are held at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz and Heritage Center located at 1225 N. Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116. Click here for a map.


QUESTIONS?

Who is eligible for the program?

Where and when does the program take place?

How do I register?

What happens after I register?

Are there auditions?

What materials should I prepare for the audition?

What if I don’t have a ride to the program?

Do you have an instrument I can use?

I’ve seen that you’ve taken class trips before. How do students become eligible for that?

If you have any additional questions about this program, or you need assistance with registration, please email ashley@tromboneshortyfoundation.org.