Join us for a special one-day event with Martin Ecker, master craftsman and owner of Dieter Otto Horns — one of the world’s most respected names in horn making. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to meet Martin in person and experience the artistry and precision that define his custom instruments.
Throughout the day, Martin will offer custom fittings and professional consultations for horn players of all levels. Whether you’re exploring a new instrument, seeking adjustments, or simply interested in learning more about the Dieter Otto tradition, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Space is limited — RSVP today!
Free
Some of Otto’s best-selling models will be on display and available for sale:
Designed in collaboration with Jeff Nelsen of Indiana University and the Canadian Brass, the 180K-JN embodies stability in pitch and response across all registers, producing a noble and enticing sound that stands out in any performance setting. The Dieter Otto 180K-JN Double Horn is a testament to unparalleled German engineering and meticulous craftsmanship. Constructed with precision in Germany, this F/Bb double horn boasts a Yellow Brass body complemented by nickel-silver leadpipe and slide tubing for precise articulation and durability.
The model 205 was inspired by an exceptional pre-WWI C.F. Schmidt “Weimar Berlin” instrument, while utilizing a Geyer-style wrap and friendly ergonomics that suit the modern player. The use of an original C.F. Schmidt bell mandrel results in a classic sound and response that is instantly recognizable. Honoring a traditional method, a copper-plated steel wire is soldered into the bell flare. The leadpipe design is derived from a successful original C.F. Schmidt pipe with slight modifications to improve intonation while preserving tonal structure. All bracing is handmade from brass rods, annealed, further worked, and fit to each horn individually. All slides are hand-lapped brass, inside and outside. This model includes traditionally hand-bent tapered parts and branches.
A dynamic brass quintet known for blending classical dexterity with funk, jazz, Broadway, and pop influences, C Street Brass has captivated audiences nationwide and across the globe with their energy and artistry. Don’t miss this chance to experience C Street’s bold sound and charismatic stage presence in an unforgettable afternoon concert. Prepare to be wowed…
C Street Brass was Ensemble in Residence at Carnegie Mellon University from 2012-2015. During this time the group fell in love with the thriving music scene of Pittsburgh, PA where the group is now based. C Street has been featured on a variety of performing arts series around the country including: Corpus Christi Chamber Music Series, Chamber Music Pittsburgh, and Strings Music Festival where they were Artists in Residence from 2013-2018. Internationally, C Street Brass has toured in Tbilisi, Georgia as resident ensemble of the 2012 Traveling Notes Music Festival and in Doha, Qatar in 2014 as ambassadors for Carnegie Mellon University.
C Street Brass is passionately committed to educating and inspiring the next generation of musicians and most recently led a masterclass at the Juilliard School for the brass chamber music seminar (2022). The group has produced extended educational residencies focusing on chamber music, entrepreneurship, and wellness, at San Francisco State University and University of South Carolina. C Street Brass has also held short residencies at: Peabody Conservatory, Mercyhurst College, Emory and Henry College, and George Washington University.
In 2014, members of C Street Brass developed Beauty Slap, an entirely new band concept combining the sound of classically trained brass with modern electronic dance music. The result was the creation of an entirely new genre, thunder funk. Beauty Slap has performed and toured extensively across the United States. Often, C Street Brass and Beauty Slap share dual residencies to offer contrasting and complementary perspectives on the current state of entrepreneurship and the business of music.
C Street Brass Testimonials:
“…a fantastic and imaginative approach to the brass quintet music. I would highly encourage everyone to check them out.” -Chris Botti, Grammy Award winning Trumpeter
“C Street is the new sound, look, and feel of the modern brass quintet. Highly virtuosic playing in a wide variety of styles rolled into an accessible, warm-hearted candor which makes for a delightful concert experience. ” -George Vosburgh, former Principal Trumpet of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
“…a highly creative, disciplined and entertaining group of fantastic young artists, each a high-level talent on their own instrument. Their wonderful group chemistry and their energetic and engaging personalities make them an obvious audience favorite. Watch out for this group!” -Joe Burgstaller, Trumpet Soloist, formerly of Canadian Brass
“What a fantastic group…their performance of my piece was simply great—displaying both their amazing technique, and a singing tone, resulting in an interpretation of my piece that was just so musical and exciting. I am delighted to have such exceptional performers playing my music, and I wish all the best in what promises to be an extremely exciting musical future!” -Eric Ewazen, Composer & Juilliard faculty
$30.00 General Admission
Media Consent:By registering for this event, you agree to allow Houghton Horns to use any photos, videos, or other media taken during the event for promotional purposes.
Please select the correct number of tickets below, then click the red “Get Tickets” button to proceed!
Scott Nadelson – Trumpet
Scott is an avid chamber musician and the founder of C Street Brass. He brings a unique artistic versatility to the group that enables him to showcase his skills through classical, jazz, commercial, and chamber music.
Currently living in Pittsburgh, Scott is the Assistant Principal Cornet for the River City Brass Band. He also plays lead trumpet for Beauty Slap (electro-funk/thunder-funk), the NASCAR Awards Show Band, and the Nu Deco Ensemble a contemporary orchestra in Miami, FL. In addition, Scott plays regularly at the Kennedy Center for Mason Bates’ KC Jukebox new music series.
Scott began his love affair with trumpet at the age of 12, studying from New York freelancing god Chris Jaudes and was one of two trumpet performers to win the prestigious New Jersey State Governors School award. While earning his MM’ from Carnegie Mellon and his BM’ from Peabody Conservatory Scott not only honed his love for music but for great coffee, rye whiskey, and barbeque as well.
Micah Holt – Trumpet
Micah Holt is a dynamic performer and educator based in Pittsburgh, PA. He serves as Principal Trumpet with the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic, 3rd trumpet in the Erie Philharmonic, and 3rd trumpet with the West Virginia Symphony. As a chamber musician, Micah is the newest addition to C Street brass and a member of The Brass Roots. Micah is also the trumpet professor at Slippery Rock University where he teaches trumpet and other music courses. In addition to his permanent positions, Micah has performed with the Pittsburgh Symphony, Pittsburgh Opera, Charleston (SC) Symphony, Akron Symphony, Canton Symphony, Wheeling Symphony, CityMusic Cleveland and with the New World Symphony.
He received his BA at the University of Northern Colorado, MM at the University of Louisville, DMA at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and an Advanced Musical Studies Certificate at Carnegie Mellon University. In his doctoral thesis, “Applied Anatomy in Music: Body Mapping for Trumpeters,” he explores misconceptions trumpeters and other musicians carry regarding their body structure and how this effects their approach to practicing and performing on their instrument.
In addition to his work in music, Micah is an avid climber and professional route-setter (a person that builds indoor climbing routes.) Micah sets regularly for local and regional climbing competitions and is a member of the Ascend Pittsburgh route-setting team. When he’s not climbing, performing, or teaching Micah is most likely at home spending time with his wonderful fiancé, Stefanie and their cat, Pocket.
Jon Carroll – Horn
Hailed by the New York Times for having “impressive confidence”, Jon has been a member of C Street Brass since 2015. In addition to performing around the country with C Street Brass, Jon is a sought-after performer in New York City. Recent highlights include a Live from Lincoln Center broadcast of “The Music of Danny Elfman” in conjunction with Lincoln Center Festival and performing alongside his first teacher, David Jolley, in the Brooklyn Chamber Music Society.
Jon has performed with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Sarasota Opera, The West Point Band, and New York Pops. In 2017 Jon was the Associate Principal Horn of the Orquesta Filharmonico de Jalisco, in Guadalajara. Jon was also part of the orchestra that backed up the Grateful Dead on their last tour in 2014. An active Broadway performer as well, Jon has performed in Cinderella, The Lion King, On The Town, The King and I, Honeymoon in Vegas, Les Miserables, Miss Saigon, Wicked, Carousel, The Phantom of the Opera, and King Kong.
Jon received his Master of Music Degree from The Juilliard School and his Bachelor’s degree from Mannes College. He also attended North Carolina School of the Arts in high school.
Aside from performing Jon is an avid cyclist and skier. Having grown up in the mountains of North Carolina these activities were just as much part of his life as music was. He and his wife are shamelessly committed to raising their two perfect cats, Henry and Luna.
Gabriel Colby – Trombone
Gabriel Colby is a trombonist, teacher, recording artist, and certified trainer based in Pittsburgh, PA. He is the trombone professor at Slippery Rock University and an active performer. He serves as principal trombone for Nu Deco Ensemble, a cutting-edge chamber orchestra operating out of Miami, Florida, and co-principal trombone for River City Brass Band.
Gabriel’s biggest passions are his work with C Street Brass and Beauty Slap, two self-founded groups that Gabriel plays in and manages. C Street Brass performs a wide variety of genres leaning on self-arranged material in recital halls and performing arts centers across the country. Beauty Slap, comprised of horns, keys, and electronics, is a “future-brass-thunder-funk” force of nature that tours nationally and plays sold-out shows in and around Pittsburgh. Both groups are focused on education and have given workshops at prestigious colleges such as Juilliard, Carnegie Mellon University, University of South Carolina, San Francisco State University, California State University Stanislaus, and others. Gabriel’s passion for chamber music shines in his work with these groups and his dedication to educating the next generation of musicians.
As a speaker, Gabriel has given workshops and seminars on both the business of music and movement, fitness, and pain solutions for musicians at West Virginia University, Third Coast Trombone Retreat, Carnegie Mellon University, and other institutions. Gabriel utilizes his personal experience recovering from injury and studying a variety of movement disciplines to help musicians and non-musicians alike become pain-free and feel more confident, playful, and powerful in their bodies.
In his free time, Gabriel enjoys all kinds of fitness training, golf, rock climbing, and eating ice cream. His love for music, fitness, and education is evident in all aspects of his life, and he strives to inspire and motivate those around him. Gabriel holds a B.M. and G.P.D. from Peabody Conservatory and an M.M. from Carnegie Mellon University.
Hakeem Bilal – Bass Trombone
Proudly hailing from Washington, D.C., Hakeem Bilal is one of the most sought-after trombonists today. His performances have been called “A dynamic concert experience” by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and he has been featured on Pittsburgh Today Live on CBS and Talking Pittsburgh on NBC. Mr. Bilal performs across many genres of music with ease and teaches internationally. Most recently, he performed a three week tour of Asia, performed at theIndianapolis 500, and taught masterclasses in Dhaka, Bangladesh and Beijing, China. Mr. Bilal holds degrees from The Peabody Conservatory and Carnegie Mellon University and now resides in Pittsburgh, PA.
Mr. Bilal is the Assistant Professor of Trombone at West Virginia University and remains in high demand as an orchestral player and soloist. He is a regular extra with the Cleveland Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Symphony; he has recently performed with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, the Atlanta Symphony, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and West Virginia Symphony. He also serves as the Bass Trombonist of C Street Brass, a member of River City Brass, and the MC of Beauty Slap. Mr. Bilal was featured as a guest artist at the 2016 Trombone Summit in Fort Worth, Texas and was invited to perform at the 2018 International Trombone Festival in Iowa. His main teachers include Randall Campora of the Baltimore Symphony, Dr. Denson Paul Pollard of the Metropolitan Opera, Dr. David Begnoche of Texas Christian University, and Murray Crewe of the Pittsburgh Symphony.
Outside of making music, Hakeem loves to build things. Whether it is constructing an innovative cocktail from behind the bar, or building computers, he loves creating on all levels. Some things you may not know about Hakeem: Other than being an award winning mixologist, aspiring chef, and former teen heartthrob, he has been known to randomly break into dance and will find any reason to fire up the grill. Hakeem enjoys great coffee, video games, and beef ribs (not necessarily in that order).
Join us on Sunday, September 28th, 2025 for an afternoon of inspiration, learning, and performance at the Texas All-State Slide Summit.
Tenor Trombone Session (Rescheduled), September 28th (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) with Sebastian Vera
Highlights include:
• Masterclass covering aspects of technique, sound, and musicianship, especially focused on performance of the 2025-2026 TMEA etudes
• Performance demonstrations by our guest artist, showcasing virtuosity and interpretation
• All-State audition preparation tips that go beyond just the music
• Group performance opportunities for all attendees to play along with our guest artist
• Individual solo performance opportunities on stage with personalized feedback from our guest artist for premium admission holders
• Instrument, mouthpiece, and other trial opportunities and resources provided by Houghton Horns
$40.00 General Admission
Media Consent:By registering for this event, you agree to allow Houghton Horns to use any photos, videos, or other media taken during the event for promotional purposes.
Please select the correct number of tickets below, then click the red “Get Tickets” button to proceed!
John Sebastian Vera, a native of Texas, became the principal trombonist of the Pittsburgh Opera in 2010. He is a founder of the Third Coast Trombone Retreat and also trombone faculty at Duquesne University and Head of Brass and Percussion at the Cleveland Institute of Music.
In addition to the Pittsburgh Opera, Mr. Vera has played with the symphonies of Dallas, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Buffalo, Kennedy Center Opera House, Malaysian Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, Vermont, Harrisburg, Charleston, American Ballet Theatre, and Orquesta Sinaloa de las Artes in Mexico amongst others.
A multi-year All-State musician and graduate of Marcus High School, he began his studies with Jon Bohls in Texas and continued his education at Southern Methodist University where he studied with John Kitzman of the Dallas Symphony. He then spent a year studying with Ed Zadrozny as a graduate assistant at the University of Akron, and finished his graduate work in New York City at the Mannes College of Music studying with David Finlayson and James Markey of the New York Philharmonic.
In 2011, he spent the summer in Haiti volunteer teaching and performing in the Orchestre Philharmonique Sainte Trinite as well as the Ecole de Musique Dessaix Baptiste which became one of the more profound experiences of his life.
A dedicated chamber musician, he also was a founding member of the critically acclaimed Guidonian Hand Trombone Quartet in which he played from 2008–2014. With the quartet, John performed over 100 concerts and gave master classes all over the country. Heralded by the New York Times for their “expertly played performances” they have been recipients of numerous national grants which have enabled them to commission countless composers to create new and innovative works for four trombones. In 2014 was the premiere of River of Fundament, a movie by film artist Matthew Barney, in which John recorded for and acted in along with the quartet.
Mr. Vera can also be heard on the HBO documentary The Words that Built America as well as on euphonium in the PBS documentary Abraham and Mary Lincoln, A House Divided as well as many commercial and video game soundtracks as well as James Markey’s solo release, “On Base”.
Sebastian is an artist for Thein Instruments, has a signature JSV mouthpiece line he developed with Houghton Horns and resides in Pittsburgh. His favorite musicians include Sigur Ros, Radiohead, the Books, and Efterklang. When he can get away from the trombone he most enjoys basketball, traveling and reading about psychology, and social science. Check out his podcast he hosts with Nick Schwartz called the Trombone Retreat available everywhere you download your podcasts. Follow him on Instagram @js.vera.
Join us on Saturday, September 20 & 28 2025, for inspiration, learning, and performance at the Texas All-State Slide Summit, designed exclusively for tenor and bass trombonists.
IMPORTANT UPDATE:
Dear Attendees,
We want to share an important update regarding tomorrow’s Texas All-State Slide Summit event.
Due to unexpected technical flight delays at DFW, our morning session artist Sebastian Vera will not be able to arrive in time for Saturday’s scheduled block.
The morning session has been rescheduled for Sunday, September 28, from 2:00–5:00 PM.
• This live event will be held in the same location as originally planned.
• Your registration will automatically transfer to the new session.
👉 The afternoon session for Bass Tromboneon Saturday 9/20 is still ON as scheduled.
👉 If you are unable to attend the rescheduled date, you have the option to receive store credit (excluding tax) with Houghton Horns.
📩 Please contact us to confirm you’ve received this update.
👥 If you know other attendees who may not check email promptly, we’d appreciate you sharing this update with them as well.
We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we work to ensure you still receive the full experience with Sebastian Vera.
Thank you for your patience — we look forward to seeing you!
Led by world-class artists Sebastian Vera and Brian Hecht, this immersive event will feature two focused sessions:
• Tenor Trombone Session, September 28th (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM) with Sebastian Vera
• Bass Trombone Session, September 20th (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM) with Brian Hecht
• Lunch will be available on-site Saturday the 20th
Highlights include:
• Masterclasses covering aspects of technique, sound, and musicianship, especially focused on performance of the 2025-2026 TMEA etudes
• Performance demonstrations by our guest artists, showcasing their virtuosity and interpretation
• All-State audition preparation tips that go beyond just the music
• Group performance opportunities for all attendees to play along with our guest artists
• Individual solo performance opportunities on stage with personalized feedback from our guest artists for premium admission holders
• Instrument, mouthpiece, and other trial opportunities and resources provided by Houghton Horns
$40.00 – $60.00 Per Session
Ticket Option Description:
• $60 Premium Admission – Includes masterclass, group activities, full session access, and a solo performance opportunity on stage with personalized feedback from our guest artists–12 spots only (6 per each session).
• $40 General Admission – Includes masterclass, group activities, and full session access.
Media Consent:By registering for this event, you agree to allow Houghton Horns to use any photos, videos, or other media taken during the event for promotional purposes.
Please select your preferred session and number of tickets below, then click the red “Get Tickets” button to proceed!
137 E Hill St Keller,
TX
76248United States+ Google Map
John Sebastian Vera, a native of Texas, became the principal trombonist of the Pittsburgh Opera in 2010. He is a founder of the Third Coast Trombone Retreat and also trombone faculty at Duquesne University and Head of Brass and Percussion at the Cleveland Institute of Music.
In addition to the Pittsburgh Opera, Mr. Vera has played with the symphonies of Dallas, Detroit, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Buffalo, Kennedy Center Opera House, Malaysian Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, Vermont, Harrisburg, Charleston, American Ballet Theatre, and Orquesta Sinaloa de las Artes in Mexico amongst others.
A multi-year All-State musician and graduate of Marcus High School, he began his studies with Jon Bohls in Texas and continued his education at Southern Methodist University where he studied with John Kitzman of the Dallas Symphony. He then spent a year studying with Ed Zadrozny as a graduate assistant at the University of Akron, and finished his graduate work in New York City at the Mannes College of Music studying with David Finlayson and James Markey of the New York Philharmonic.
In 2011, he spent the summer in Haiti volunteer teaching and performing in the Orchestre Philharmonique Sainte Trinite as well as the Ecole de Musique Dessaix Baptiste which became one of the more profound experiences of his life.
A dedicated chamber musician, he also was a founding member of the critically acclaimed Guidonian Hand Trombone Quartet in which he played from 2008–2014. With the quartet, John performed over 100 concerts and gave master classes all over the country. Heralded by the New York Times for their “expertly played performances” they have been recipients of numerous national grants which have enabled them to commission countless composers to create new and innovative works for four trombones. In 2014 was the premiere of River of Fundament, a movie by film artist Matthew Barney, in which John recorded for and acted in along with the quartet.
Mr. Vera can also be heard on the HBO documentary The Words that Built America as well as on euphonium in the PBS documentary Abraham and Mary Lincoln, A House Divided as well as many commercial and video game soundtracks as well as James Markey’s solo release, “On Base”.
Sebastian is an artist for Thein Instruments, has a signature JSV mouthpiece line he developed with Houghton Horns and resides in Pittsburgh. His favorite musicians include Sigur Ros, Radiohead, the Books, and Efterklang. When he can get away from the trombone he most enjoys basketball, traveling and reading about psychology, and social science. Check out his podcast he hosts with Nick Schwartz called the Trombone Retreat available everywhere you download your podcasts. Follow him on Instagram @js.vera.
Brian Hecht is an internationally renowned soloist, orchestral musician, and educator who has captivated audiences all across the world. His playing has been described as “Stunning” by the San Diego Magazine and the Blanco Performing Arts Center hails him as “One of the foremost trombonists of his generation” chronicling his performances as “Sonic Brilliance” and “Remarkable Artistry”. With a sound that can whisper secrets and ignite emotion, Brian is a soloist who transcends borders. His artistry, a captivating blend of rich overtones, technical brilliance, emotional depth, and innovative spirit has resonated with audiences across Asia, Europe, North and South America. Whether exploring the grand canvases of the classical repertoire or venturing into the uncharted territories of contemporary music, Brian consistently delivers performances that are both exhilarating and profoundly moving. He is a true storyteller on the trombone who can transport his listener from any venue into his imagination through his music.
His solo engagements have included professional ensembles such as The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, The United States Navy Band, The United States “Pershing’s Own” Army Band and Orchestra as well as countless professional chamber ensembles all across the globe from Thailand, Spain, China and Hungary to all over the United States.
He is a tenured member of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra who has previously held tenured positions with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the United States Navy Band in Washington, D.C. He is a highly regarded and sought after orchestral musician being called upon to perform with other notable ensembles including the New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, National Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Seattle Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Alabama Symphony Orchestra, Naples Philharmonic, Washington National Opera, Lyric Opera of Baltimore, and the Kennedy Center Ballet.
Recent solo engagements include being a Featured Artist at the Numskull Brass Festival in Caudete, Spain, the Thailand International Trombone Festival in Bangkok, Thailand, Texas Christian University’s Trombone Summit along with several performances at the International Trombone Festival in May 2024. Brian is in constant demand as a Guest at Universities all across the US including recent residencies at The University of Texas at Austin, Louisiana State University, Texas Tech University, and San Diego State University.
Brian received his Master of Music degree from Northwestern University and his Bachelor of Music degree from The University of Texas at Austin. He passes along the insights from his illustrious career through an online platform he co-founded, Slide School.
He plays the Thein Brass “Brian Hecht” model and Griego “Hecht” Mouthpieces exclusively.
Get ready for an electrifying day of trumpet excellence! Higher • Faster • Louder Trumpet Day brings together top-tier artists, educators, and industry experts for a full day of music-making, education, and inspiration.
Whether you’re a student, professional, educator, or enthusiast, this is your chance to dive deep into the world of trumpet performance with:
🎓 All-State EtudeMasterclass led by Principal Trumpet of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Kyle Sherman.
🎶 Live Performances showcasing a range of styles and techniques from our guest artists.
🧠 Presentations & Discussions covering concepts in trumpet playing, maintenance & equipment, and preparation tips for college auditions, competitions, and festivals.
🎤 Roundtable Q&A where YOU can ask questions and gain insights from some of the best in the business.
🎺 Instrument Petting Zoo – explore and test a wide selection of trumpets from Yamaha, Bach, S.E. Shires & more, along with mouthpieces and accessories, all with expert guidance.
🥪 Grab a Bite – catered lunch provided with registration.
👕 T-Shirt – receive a premium cotton ‘Higher Faster Louder’ tee with registration.
Heads up!T-shirt designs might look a little different in person. Colors, sizing, and placement can vary slightly from what you see on your screen.
Schedule of Events:
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Playability Hacks & Secrets with expert Wayne Tanabe
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM – TMEA Masterclass with Kyle Sherman / Fundamentals Presentation with McKenna Hill
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM – Catered Lunch
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Performances and presentations by Kyle Sherman, Brian Walker, Cody McClarty & McKenna Hill (playing demos, college audition/competition/festival prep, various other concepts)
Reserve your spot today! Space is limited and this is an event you won’t want to miss…..
$45.00 Day Pass (registration)
Media Consent:By registering for this event, you agree to allow Houghton Horns to use any photos, videos, or other media taken during the event for promotional purposes.
Please select your preferred session and number of tickets below, then click the red “Get Tickets” button to proceed!
137 E Hill St Keller,
TX
76248United States+ Google Map
Praised by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram for his “gorgeous and moving solo work,” Kyle Sherman joined the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra as Principal Trumpet in 2016. Originally from La Grange, Texas, Mr. Sherman is an alumnus of the Yale School of Music, Oberlin Conservatory, Tanglewood Music Center, the National Repertory Orchestra, and the Round Top Festival. Kyle has appeared with the Dallas Symphony, and as a soloist with the Garland, Arlington, and Las Colinas symphony orchestras. He has also performed on the Broadway national tours of the Book of Mormon, Porgy & Bess, and Matilda, among others.
An active and dedicated educator, he regularly appears as a clinician and recitalist at universities throughout Texas and the United States. His current and former students can be found in the Dallas and Fort Worth Youth Symphonies, as well as college music schools throughout the country.
Kyle Sherman is a Yamaha performing artist.
Dr. Brian Walker is currently the Associate Professor of Trumpet at the University of North Texas. Prior to his appointment at UNT, Brian Walker was Professor of Trumpet at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas for twelve years. As a teacher, his students have been accepted into many undergraduate and graduate music programs and currently perform in orchestras and premier military groups throughout the United States. His students are frequently featured at the National Trumpet Competition and International Trumpet Guild Conferences as competitors, presenters, and performers. As a performer, he has appeared with various orchestral groups in the DFW region and is currently Second Trumpet with the Richardson Symphony Orchestra. As a commercial musician, Dr. Walker has played for various Broadway and Musical Theater organizations in Dallas and Fort Worth. As a soloist, Dr. Walker has given recitals throughout the United States and in Greece, France, China and Brazil. He was featured soloist on the Tarleton State Wind Ensemble’s performance at Carnegie Hall in 2014 and this ensemble’s performance at the Texas Music Education Association Conference in 2022.
Brian is active in the International Trumpet Guild where he serves on the Board of Directors, on the Recording Projects Committee, Chairs the Conference Golf Scramble Scholarship Fundraiser Committee and Chairs the Financial Investments Committee. Dr. Walker also serves as an adjudicator for the National Trumpet Competition and ITG Competitions and is often sought as a pedagogue for masterclasses throughout the United States.
Dr. Walker holds degrees from the University of North Texas (DMA), The Florida State University (MM) and Southeastern Oklahoma State University (BM) where he studied with Michael Miles, Christopher Moore, and John Holt, respectively.
He is a Yamaha Performing Artist and plays exclusively on Yamaha trumpets.
Cody McClarty was appointed to the Assistant Principal Trumpet position of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra in May 2018. Prior to this, he served two years as Principal Trumpet for the Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra, Garland Symphony Orchestra, and the Arlington Symphony Orchestra. Mr. McClarty has also performed with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Dallas Chamber Symphony, Houston Symphony Orchestra, San Antonio Symphony, Santa Fe Symphony, Tulsa Symphony, and the Breckenridge Music Festival. In the summer of 2014, he was a member of the National Repertory Orchestra. Mr. McClarty joined the Music in the Mountains festival orchestra in the summer of 2019, in Durango, Colorado. He has also been offered positions with the Air Force Academy Band, the Navy Band, as well as a one-year position with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
Mr. McClarty is a native of Fort Worth, Texas and began trumpet studies under his older brother, James McClarty. Cody earned his BM in Trumpet Performance from Southern Methodist University, under the tutelage of Tom Booth. While at SMU, he also studied with Ryan Anthony, and Kevin Finamore. Other notable teachers include Tom Cupples, and Wiff Rudd.
Cody is a Shires Trumpet Artist.
McKenna Hill is a doctoral candidate in Trumpet Performance and Pedagogy at the University of North Texas (UNT). Her research and performance interests include trumpet pedagogy, chamber music, historical performance practice, and interdisciplinary arts. During her doctoral studies, Hill held a Teaching Assistantship as a member of the Center for Chamber Music Studies Brass Quintet and a Teaching Fellowship for the trumpet department, where she contributed to both applied instruction and ensemble coaching.
Hill currently maintains an active performance schedule in the Dallas–Fort Worth region, including engagements with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, the Richardson Symphony Orchestra, the Dallas Winds, the Lone Star Wind Orchestra, and serves as the fourth/utility trumpet with the Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, Hill has appeared in renowned ensembles across the United States, such as the Round Top Festival Institute Orchestra, the Colorado MahlerFest Orchestra, the Miami Music Festival Orchestra, the American Baroque Opera Company, and Harmonia Stellarum.
Hill earned her Master of Music at UNT in Trumpet Performance with a specialization in Early Music and holds a Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance from Texas A&M University–Commerce (now ETAMU). As a proud alumna of East Texas A&M University, Hill is thrilled to have the opportunity to give back to the department that initially fostered her growth as an artist and educator. Go Lions!
Wayne Tanabe is the senior technical manager for Yamaha Artist Services in New York City. He has been associated with brass instrument repair for the past 39 years, and founded The Brass Bow repair shop in 1983. With his former company Chicago Brass Works, he has also built a line of custom handmade trumpets. Widely recognized for his pioneering work in the field of brass instrument repair, Wayne has developed and refined the use of cryogenics, ultrasonic cleaning and magnetic dent removal, and has served as a consultant for instrument design and development of components for various manufacturers.
Join us for a DCI Finals Watch Party at Houghton Horns!
Come enjoy an evening of music, community, and world-class marching as we stream the DCI World Championship Finals live at our shop! Bring your friends, relax, and cheer on your favorite corps with fellow drum corps fans.
We’ll have a large commercial screen set up in our performance hall for easy viewing, and food and refreshments will be available.
It’s time again for the annual Jumpstart Academy, which will introduce the 2025/26 TMEA region etudes for horn. For the first time, this event will be held at our new facility on Hill St in Keller! There will be be two afternoon sessions:
Session #1 1:00-2:30pm
Session #2 3:00-4:30pm
$35 Admission Fee
Please choose a session and you’ll be added you to the list for your preferred time slot by emailing: karen@houghtonhorns.com
As in previous years, emphasis will be placed on appropriate fundamentals, musical style/articulation, technical issues and helpful hints which will provide a strong foundation for the work ahead.
This promises to be a highly informative opportunity. Nobody will be forced to play in front of the class (it’s a lesson, not an audition!). Come ready to gain insight and prepare for success!
Join us for an evening with performer, teacher and composer Dr. James Naigus! Select participants will perform compositions by Dr. Naigus for a live audience of attendees, exploring the music and receiving immediate feedback from the composer himself. If you are interested in performing, please email janet@houghtonhorns.com. Horn players in attendance are invited to participate in a mass horn choir, and participants should plan to bring their horn and a stand. There will also be a short Q&A session if time allows.
As a dedicated teacher, active performer, and prolific composer, Dr. James Naigus seeks to inspire the next generation of musicians and creative thinkers through artistic empowerment and enthusiastic innovation. He is Assistant Professor of Horn at the University of Georgia and hornist with the Georgia Brass Quintet. He is co-founder of the Cor Moto Horn Duo with Dr. Drew Phillips, and co-editor/contributor of the Creative Hornist and Technique Tips columns in the Horn Call, the journal of the International Horn Society. In 2024 he was awarded the prestigious Michael F. Adams Early Career Scholar Award from UGA.
He frequently plays with the Atlanta Symphony and Charleston Symphony, and has played with the Wichita Symphony, Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony, Orchestra Iowa, Brevard Symphony, Gainesville Chamber Orchestra, Valdosta Symphony, and Ocala Symphony Orchestra. In 2019 he was selected to perform with the WCIT World Orchestra in Yerevan, Armenia. He has toured Europe in 2017 & 2014 and South America in 2011 as a member of the American Chamber Winds. He also frequently performs on recitals at the Midnorth, Midwest, Midsouth and Southeast Horn Workshops, and International Horn Symposiums, and in 2024 hosted the Southeast Horn Workshop in Athens, GA.
Naigus has been a member of the faculty and staff at the prestigious Kendall Betts Horn Camp for the last several years, as well as the Heartland Horn Camp. Additional teaching interests include music theory, concert and commercial composition, film music, and technology.
With a catalogue of over 100 published works, Naigus’ compositions have been performed throughout the United States and beyond, with enthusiastic reception and rave review. Venues of note include the New York Philharmonic, the West Point Band, Music Academy of the West, and the Rafael Mendez Brass Institute. He is also an award winning film composer, and has written commercial compositions for clients such as Google.
He is a graduate of the University of Iowa (DMA) studying with Jeffrey Agrell, studied horn and composition with Paul Basler at the University of Florida during his masters degree, and while attending the University of Michigan for his undergraduate degree studied with Soren Hermansson, Bryan Kennedy, and Adam Unsworth. Prior appointments include the University of Central Missouri and the University of Iowa.
Join us for a day with special guest, Trombone Timo! This event will feature student ensemble performances, a solo performance by Trombone Timo, professional guidance and career advice for aspiring young musicians, participant solos, excerpts and activities. The event will involve student participation and possible playing volunteers, so be sure to bring your trombone! Participants are welcome to stay for the entirety of the event, or come and go as their schedule allows.
Timothy Jay Maines II (aka: Trombone Timo) is a professional trombonist, experienced educator and a social media expert. He has performed with various ensembles such as the Chicago Symphony, Pacific Music Festival Orchestra, Richmond Symphony, Music Academy of the West and the New World Symphony.
Over the years, Tim has become a tremendously successful social media influencer. He currently has 340,000 followers on TikTok, 670,000 followers on Youtube and 167,000 followers on Instagram. Tim’s notable collaborations with Brass Witch, Robinson’s Remedies, and Houghton Horns have generated significant impact. His videos and projects have featured Philadelphia Orchestra and Metropolitan Opera Music Director, Yannick Nézet-Séguin, as well as Metropolitan Opera trombonist Weston Sprott, and New York Philharmonic Principal Trombone Joseph Alessi, among others. Mr. Maines has also served as a social media consultant for the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara California.
Mr. Maines earned his Bachelor’s of Music degree at the University of Texas at Austin, continued to Northwestern University for his Master’s, then completed his Master of Musical Arts degree at Yale University. Aside from trombone and social media, Mr. Maines enjoys video games with friends, swing dancing, studying languages, and exploring the great outdoors.
