Male trombonist wearing glasses and playing in a darkened performance space

Trombone at Penn State

Trombone Studio

Penn State School of Music

Welcome to the Trombone Studio at Penn State!

Led by Professor Ben Carrasquillo, our studio is dedicated to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for every student. At the core of our program is a sense of family, where each member is valued and encouraged to thrive. Students in the trombone studio come from a variety of majors and represent diverse disciplines from across our campus.

We emphasize collaboration, personal growth, and mutual respect, creating a space where students feel comfortable to explore their musical potential and overcome challenges.

Each student in the studio receives a weekly 60-minute lesson and participates in weekly studio classes. Studio members will also take part in Trombone Choir, an internationally recognized ensemble that serves to enrich the educational experience and celebrate the rich tradition of trombone ensemble music.

In addition to studio activities, studio members will participate in a wide range of ensembles, instructed by the world-class faculty at Penn State. Ensemble opportunities include bands, orchestras, jazz ensembles and combos, chamber groups and more

The studio regularly hosts world-renowned guest artists and collaborates with other universities, including the annual Frühling Posaunen festival. These events enrich the student experience, build artistry, and expand professional networking opportunities.

Alumni of the trombone studio work and perform at the highest levels across the music industry as band directors, military and orchestral musicians, collegiate music professors, freelance performers, and more.

Our graduates maintain a passionate connection to the trombone studio, frequently returning for performances and events that celebrate the camaraderie and lasting relationships built at Penn State.

Join us to experience a trombone studio where support and family are at the heart of everything we do! To learn more about why Penn State is the right choice for you to grow as a trombonist and musician, visit our links below.

Studio Faculty

Headshot of Ben Carrasquillo

Ben Carrasquillo

  • Assistant Professor, Trombone

bmcarrasquillo@psu.edu

Trombone Studio

Sights & Sounds

Two trombonists playing in a performance venue.
Trombone performers on stage blurred in the background behind a music stand holding the program for the 35th Frühling Posaunen trombone concert.
Five trombonists practicing on the Penn State Recital Hall stage.
A groups of trombonists arrayed around a female conductor with baton raised
A photo from behind a row of trombone studio musicians playing
Two rows of trombonists seated in concert hall audience seating, holding their trombones, horn pointed down to the floor
Overhead view of group of eight trombonists standing and playing their instruments on a blonde wood floored performance stage
Approximately twenty trombonists playing in a semi-circle around a conductor
Photo take over the shoulders of a line of trombonists playing in a recital studio.
Trombone choir practicing on stage at Penn State's Recital Hall
Thirteen trombonists sitting and standing on the multi-level concrete Olsan Stone Terrace in front of the glass facade of the Penn State Recital Hall
Seventeen trombonists sitting and standing on the concrete steps of Penn State's Old Main building.

Related Degree Programs

Undergraduate Degrees

Graduate Degrees

Professional Certificate