The Trombone Shorty Academy at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz and Heritage Center is a free, after-school music program that educates the next generation of musically gifted students. 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 Julian Gosin, Erion Williams, Glenn Hall, and Revon Andrew from the Soul Rebels, Rebirth Brass Band, and New Breed Brass Band, 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.
Trombone Shorty Academy is designed for young performers in 8th through 12th grade. 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.
By participating in the Trombone Shorty Academy, Student Artists will receive:
- Weekly Instruction and Coaching: Our student artists receive hands-on ensemble instruction, receiving feedback from music professionals along the way.
- Performance Opportunities: Our student artists share their talents on stages at French Quarter Fest, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and alongside Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews at the Trombone Shorty Foundation’s annual Tunes for Toys and Shorty Fest.
- Class Trip: Our student artists have the opportunity to travel with Trombone Shorty Foundation, learning from professional musicians across the US.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Student Artists who are a part of our program have the opportunity to access scholarships to attend colleges and universities across the country.
Trombone Shorty Academy takes place every Monday evening from 6pm – 8pm. Our Fall semester will take place from September 11th through December 11th, and our Spring semester will take place from January 22nd through May 6th. Classes take place at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz and Heritage Center, with performances and trips taking place outside the George and Joyce Wein Center regularly.
Please contact Ashley Shabankareh, Director of Operations and Programs at ashley@tromboneshortyfoundation.org with questions about the Trombone Shorty Academy.
Frequently Asked Questions (Button that will hyperlink to the attached FAQ doc)