Hannah Avena

Education

MM, Louisiana State University

BA, Eastern CT State University

Trombonist and pedagogue Hannah Avena is passionate about making music and encouraging young artists to fulfill their potential. Hannah holds an undergraduate degree in trombone performance from Eastern Connecticut State University where she studied with Wesley Mayhew, bass trombonist of the United States Coast Guard Band. Following this degree, she completed her Masters in Music degree in Brass Performance from Louisiana State University, studying with Dr. Hana Beloglavec. In both of these degrees, she enjoyed gaining diverse and plentiful playing experiences, including orchestra, wind ensemble, chamber ensemble, jazz ensemble and jazz combo.  

As a professional trombonist, Hannah was a substitute with the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra during her time in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She also was a principal substitute with the Monroe Symphony Orchestra in Monroe, Louisiana. She currently plays on the Spanish Music Team at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Hartford, CT. 

As a teacher, Hannah enjoys working with a wide range of ages and skill sets. During her time at LSU, she was a graduate assistant, helping to teach undergraduate music major lessons and leading trombone studio classes when necessary. She also taught young trombone students through the non-profit organization “Kids Orchestra,” bringing music to impoverished schools in Baton Rouge. Outside of this, Hannah has taught sectionals and private lessons at high schools, music stores, and in the private sector. Lastly, Hannah enjoys teaching masterclasses, most recently leading the masterclass for middle school trombone students at the Stately Oaks Band Festival in Louisiana. 

Outside of music, Hannah is a 200hr certified yoga instructor. She enjoys connecting her knowledge of yogic principles to finding ease and efficiency in her and her students’ playing. Hannah enjoys spending time with her dog, Luna, and her cat, Tabby, as well as any time spent outdoors. 

Teaching Philosophy

I believe student success is maximized when the approach to each student is individualized, and when fundamentals, musicality, practice organization, and student wellness are prioritized.

My teaching philosophy does not follow a one-size-fits-all recipe for success. Rather, it supports an individualized approach where I adapt to fit the learning styles that best suit the student at hand. It is important to me that students enjoy what they are working on, and thus I make a conscious effort to get to know my students and their specific goals. 

Though each student’s lessons will be individualized, I prioritize technique and solid fundamentals for every student. Not only does this avoid injury and maximize efficiency when playing, it allows the student to improve at a faster rate. 

Whether we’re working on scales or solos, musicality will always bleed into all aspects of my teaching. I teach my students to be musically intentional every time they pick up the instrument. 

In addition to building strong fundamentals and musical integrity, I want to make sure students know how to practice and how to organize their practice time. The ultimate goal is to help students find joy in their practice and to see their musical journey as an enriching process.

Lastly, I place an emphasis on a connection between mind and body while playing and practicing. A student can play at a very high level in the practice room, but none of that will matter at the end of the day if they are unable to handle high pressure situations or enjoy performing their music for others. I encourage students to avoid negative self-talk, and to adopt a growth mindset versus a fixed one. I also teach various ways to mentally practice for performances, in addition to physically practicing. Furthermore, it is vital for the student to understand the importance of personal wellness and rest in order to succeed. My Registered Yoga Teacher background and experience with Alexander Technique brings a unique insight into these ideas.