Matt Talmadge
Low Brass
Matt received his Bachelor of Arts in Music and Bachelor of Science in Music Education in 2001 from the University of New Mexico, in Albuquerque, New Mexico where he studied under Jeffery Piper. Matt also received his Master’s Degree from the University of New Mexico in 2003. Matt performs various styles of music on assorted brass instruments and vocally. He teaches band and general music to 7th through 12th grade students at John Winthrop Middle School and Valley Regional High School. At CMS, Matt teaches all students studying trombone, euphonium, baritone, and tuba. In addition to teaching and performing, Matt composes regularly, and records in his home studio. Matt and his wife Samantha (a graduate of the Yale opera program) reside in East Hampton, CT.
Every low brass lesson at every level includes embouchure flexibility conditioning and exercises for extending upper and lower range. These techniques are key to improving the overall sound on the instrument. In addition to rehearsing and interpreting challenging, level-appropriate performance pieces, students will work on intonation, the vast catalog of brass articulations, advanced rhythm reading, airflow, tone, dynamics, and practice techniques. Most lessons will also include a sight-reading component, an essential part of growth on the instrument.