The Buff Bone Initiative is an ensemble for high school trombone students around the Canyon/Amarillo area and is directed by members of the West Texas A&M University Trombone Studio founded in 2022. This ensemble is tailored to students who seek to advance themselves musically and for those who seek guidance for college preparation
Through their weekly rehearsals, this program has helped WT students gain experiential learning that directly correlates with their career goals, while simultaneously bettering the Panhandle community and providing opportunity for students from any background.
The Buff Bone Initiative
Founding members of the Buff Bone Initiative
Directors of the 2022-2023 season (Left to Right)
Spencer Owens, Corey Nance, Abraham Wood, Justin Slaughter
Masterclass Guest Artists
Charlie Johnson,
Former Bass Trombone of the Boise Philharmonic
Peter Steiner,
International Trombone Soloist
Christopher Bassett,
Bass Trombone of the St. Louis Symphony & Santa Fe Opera
Former Bass Trombone of the Los Angeles Philharmonic
Big 12 Trombone Conference 2023
The group found success in their first year with the culmination of their efforts being showcased at the 2023 Big XII Trombone Conference at Texas Tech University. There, they performed a 40 minute show that featured their very first commissioned piece, "Moment to Moment", written by Adrienne Albert with guest bass trombone soloist, Clayton Yoshifuku. The BBI is fortunate to host professionals in our career field such as Peter Steiner, Charles Johnson, and Christopher Bassett.
International Trombone Festival 2023
Following their success at the Big 12, the BBI began preparing for a featured performance at the ITF in Salt Lake City, Utah. With a record number of students participating in the program, the ensemble caught the attention of trombone professors around the United States. The students had the opportunity to participate in the annual Youth Workshop in addition to their performance.
