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My recent visit to PSM I i II stopnia im. F. Chopina, in Opole was truly uplifting, it encompassed an inspiring blend of musical collaboration, focused mentorship, and genuine human connection. Spending the day with the school’s talented tenor and bass trombonists, along with the euphonium students, was both a pleasure and a privilege.

We started our day with a group warm-up session, where I shared my personal warm-up philosophy, which treats the routine as much more than a technical ritual. Together, we explored a detailed sequence aimed at activating key aspects of our playing: breath support, embouchure flexibility, clear articulation, and precise slide movement. I emphasised the value of working with a metronome and tuner, the importance of taking breaks, and the necessity of minimising tension. A good warm-up, in my view, does more than prepare us physically, it cultivates discipline, awareness, and the kind of habits that fuel lasting growth.

The afternoon was devoted to individual lessons. These one-on-one sessions allowed for deeper focus on elements like posture, embouchure, breathing, and interpretation. It was incredibly rewarding to witness the students’ receptiveness and commitment. Guiding them toward greater confidence and musical expression.

In the evening, I had the chance to perform a short recital, joined by the school’s trombone quartet. My performance featured works by Jorgensen, Galliard, and Low, each piece offering distinct textures and expressive opportunities as well as demonstrating the range and capabilities of the instrument as a solo voice. Sharing the stage with such promising young artists was a real highlight.

I’m deeply thankful to Professors Roland Mendel, Harald Powrósło, and Janusz Wyrwał for their warm invitation, excellent organization, and unwavering dedication to their students. Their efforts shine through in the vibrant, curious musical spirit I encountered all day.

I left Opole feeling energized and full of gratitude. I truly look forward to returning, continuing these meaningful exchanges.

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From July 5th to the 8th, I had the opportunity to instruct a series of Masterclasses at the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.

During the week we worked on a broad variety of aspects that included a daily hour long warm-up session, where we focused on breathing, buzzing, tone production, flexibility and scales (all warm-up exercises discussed are available on this website, under Resources).

Following the warm-up, we had 45 minute masterclasses, covering solo repertoire including, Serocki’s Sonatina, Grondahl’s Concerto, Bozza’s Ballade, Marcello’s Sonata in F Major, David’s Concertino, Ewazen’s Sonata, and others. We discussed issues that ranged from interpretation of music, to compositional breathing challenges, to technical prowess.

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 Additionally, we worked together on chamber music and  low brass orchestral excerpts, covering among others, Mahler 2nd, Tchaikovsky 6th, Bruckner 4th, Brahms 1st and 4th symphonies.

On the last day we played a concert at the Conservatory’s Auditorium with all the materials we prepared during the week of  the course.

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It is always a pleasurable experience teaching this group of great and talented students who are preparing careers in the same manner as my own formation and in a location that holds special meaning to me. It was a fantastic and emotional week and we hope to continue the tradition in future. Everyone put forth tremendous effort, but we also had a lot of fun doing what we love most: Making music!

Special thanks to my teachers Dede Decker and José Antonio Cubas for the organization of the course, and Any Díaz for her accompaniment on the piano. Photography compliments of Alixandra Porembski.

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