Martin McCain

HOW MANY STUDENTS ARE IN THE TROMBONE STUDIO?
I usually like to carry 15-18 trombone majors. The School of Music target number is catered to outfit each major ensemble trombone section: 1 orchestra, 3 wind bands, 2 jazz bands and jazz combos.

HOW MANY TROMBONISTS DO YOU ACCEPT EVERY YEAR?
That depends on how many are graduating. I usually have 2 - 3 freshmen and 1 - 2 graduate students in each incoming class. 

WHAT SHOULD I PLAY AT MY AUDITION?
Undergraduate trombone applicants should prepare two etudes and a solo of contrasting styles in addition to Major scales. Sight-reading is also asked in auditions for the BM program. Prospective graduate applicants should prepare 25 minutes of music. This can include two contrasting movements from a major sonata and (optional) one movement of a standard concerto. Orchestral excerpts are required for the DMA, AD and MM-Performance programs.  Considerable latitude is permitted in the choice of audition materials and trombonists are urged to perform repertoire which best represents their performance level and musical taste. In an audition I look for many things: beauty of tone, technical ability, musical communication, and personality are a few. I encourage all students interested in the University of Memphis to come for a live audition and take a lesson with me prior to the audition. For information regarding admissions to the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music, click here.  

WHAT IS AN AVERAGE WEEK LIKE FOR THE TROMBONE STUDENT?
Trombone majors all have a private lesson, trombone choir and a studio class every week. In addition, the students are rotated into the wind ensemble and orchestra as needed and can audition for the various jazz groups. Classes are of course added to this. For more information regarding student life at the University of Memphis, click here. 

ARE THERE OTHER PERFORMING OPPORTUNITIES OFF CAMPUS?
Absolutely. Many trombonists perform regularly off campus at various venues within the Memphis area. These are all set up by the student, with help from me, and are an important part of the training in my studio.

IS THERE A JAZZ DEPARTMENT?
While I teach the classical side of the instrument, I encourage all my students to get involved in the vibrant Jazz and Studio Music Studies program while they are here. For those interested in this program click here.  

OTHER QUESTIONS?
Click here and send me an email.