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The Blended International Project (BIP) Trombone event, held from November 29th to December 3rd, 2024, at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Madrid, was a truly inspiring celebration of musical collaboration and cultural exchange. Thanks to the generous support of the Erasmus+ program, funded by the European Union, this initiative provided an invaluable opportunity for students and educators from across Europe to come together, share knowledge, and grow both artistically and professionally.

Spearheaded by Professor Elies Hernandis, the event brought together students and faculty from six esteemed European conservatories—Copenhagen, Wroclaw, Liège, Salzburg, Karlsruhe, and Madrid. I had the privilege of contributing by leading a warm-up session, where I was able to demonstrate and discuss an aspect of trombone playing that I believe is deeply important. Additionally, I helped prepare the student ensemble for a performance of Eric Ewazen’s intricate and profoundly moving composition, Posaunenstadt—a piece that holds special significance for me. Watching the ensemble evolve over five days was immensely rewarding, as they embraced Ewazen’s lush harmonies and intricate phrasing with both precision and expressiveness.

A particularly meaningful part of this experience was collaborating with José Antonio Cubas, a dear friend and mentor whose guidance has significantly influenced my journey as a musician and educator. His insight and support have been a constant source of inspiration, making it especially rewarding to share this experience with him.

The event was further enriched by the participation of exceptional professors, including Jesper Juul Windahl, Dany Bonvin, Sándor Szabo, Simeón Galduf, José Antonio Cubas and Elies Hernandis. Each of them brought their unique expertise and artistry to the project, creating an engaging and dynamic learning environment that left a lasting impact on the students.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without Sara Erro’s dedication behind the scenes. Her meticulous planning, professionalism, and kindness ensured that everything ran smoothly. Her efforts allowed students and faculty to focus entirely on the music, making the event not only a success but an absolute pleasure to be part of.

The Erasmus+ program continues to be a driving force in fostering international collaboration in higher education, and its impact on music conservatories is truly profound. Initiatives like BIP Trombone give students and faculty the chance to engage in exchange programs, joint artistic projects, and cross-cultural learning experiences, all of which are invaluable in shaping their artistic and professional growth.

Looking back, BIP Trombone was far more than just a week of rehearsals and performances—it was a testament to the power of music to unite people, spark creativity, and build lasting connections across cultures. I’m deeply grateful to have been part of such a remarkable project, to have shared it with incredible colleagues and mentors, and to have witnessed the dedication and artistry of the participating students. A heartfelt thank you to Elies Hernandis for his vision and leadership in bringing this event to life—his passion for music education and international collaboration was at the core of its success. Experiences like this remind us why we do what we do, and I look forward to seeing the lasting impact it will have on everyone involved.

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As a trombonist, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating on countless meaningful projects, but few have resonated as deeply as American Music for Trumpet and Piano. This album, led by Aleksander Kobus, the principal trumpet of the NFM Wrocław Philharmonic, and his wife the exceptional pianist Monika Hanus-Kobus, brings to life a rich tapestry of North American compositions spanning six decades.

When Alek invited me to contribute, I was instantly drawn to his vision: a celebration of the trumpet’s pivotal role in the cultural fabric of the United States. From its roots in jazz and marching bands to its prominence in orchestral masterpieces, the trumpet tells a story of resilience, innovation, and artistry. Adding trombone to this narrative felt to me like an opportunity to bring depth and texture to an already remarkable musical journey.

The repertoire is a showcase of creativity and contrast, reflecting the evolution of Neoclassicism and tonal music. Pieces by composers like Halsey Stevens, Joseph Turrin, and Kevin McKee pushed us to explore the delicate interplay between tradition and modernity. Each composition presented a new challenge: to blend the warm, lyrical voice of the trombone with the trumpet’s brilliance and the piano’s expressive power, creating something truly unique.

The recording process was a harmonious collaboration between respected colleagues. Alek’s clarity of vision and Monika’s artistry made every session feel like an inspired dialogue. We shared ideas and embraced the nuances of each piece, united by a common goal—to honor this music and bring it to life with authenticity and passion.

The premiere performance on December 19, 2024, was unforgettable. Performing these works live, feeling the energy of the audience, and seeing our interpretations resonate beyond the studio was both humbling and exhilarating. Supported by the National Forum of Music and CD Accord, the album’s release is a moment I’ll treasure—a celebration of the trumpet’s legacy and the beauty of North American music.

As the album reaches new listeners, I hope it sparks the same sense of wonder and connection we experienced during its creation. It stands as a testament to the trumpet’s enduring legacy, the richness of American compositions, and the profound power of collaboration that unites musicians across the globe.