Coaching the Next Generation of Low Brass Players

Coaching the Next Generation of Low Brass Players

By Dr. Logan Chopyk San Diego Trombone Lessons

I recently had the privilege of coaching the trombone, baritone, and tuba players at a local San Diego middle school. It was a joyful, eye-opening experience—and it reminded me just how much focused attention can help young musicians thrive.

Why Sectionals Matter

Band directors have an enormous job: they’re teaching 30 to 60 students at a time, managing instruments, repertoire, and classroom logistics. That means small details often slip through the cracks—details that can make a world of difference in a young player’s development.

That’s where section coaching comes in. In a smaller group, I can spot and address the issues that hold students back. Here are some examples from our session:

• Sticky slides or valves causing players to compensate with bad habits.

• Rattling tubas or collapsed posture that stifles resonance.

• Trombone players gripping the bell to find positions instead of using their ears.

• Students struggling with breathing, working too hard instead of letting air flow naturally.

These are all quick fixes—but they unlock enormous improvement.

The Heart of the Work: Developing Great Tone

Most of our time focused on tone quality—that warm, resonant sound that every brass player strives for. I used modeling(playing and having students match my tone), demonstrations, and lots of positive reinforcement.

We worked on:

• Relaxing the embouchure and letting the air vibrate freely.

• Playing crescendos to build confidence and fullness of sound.

• Finding flow state breathing—inhaling easily and naturally.

• Listening for resonance and blend, not just playing the right notes.

Helping students produce a beautiful tone is part science and part art. It draws on years of experience and the ability to explain concepts in a way that clicks with young learners. Every student responds differently—it’s a back-and-forth, an ongoing conversation about sound and expression.

Making Music Fun

To wrap up our session, I arranged “Soda Pop” from KPop Demon Hunters for low brass duet. The students loved it—proof that when young musicians play something fresh, fun, and relevant, they light up and give their best effort.

Why It Matters

Sectionals like these give middle school students the tools, confidence, and joy to contribute meaningfully to their bands. With the right guidance, they not only play better—they start to love music more deeply.

If you’re a parent in the San Diego area looking for trombone, baritone, or tuba lessons, I’d love to help your student grow with personalized, encouraging instruction.
👉 Contact me to schedule a trial lesson or learn more about my private coaching and school band clinics.