Mid-Atlantic Trombone Alliance
Sunday, March 29, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
About MATA
Registration Fee: $30
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
The Mid-Atlantic Trombone Alliance (MATA) fosters collaboration among trombone departments within the Washington, D.C. area. Institutions interested in joining can collaborate through workshops, performances and educational opportunities, enhancing growth and community among trombone players and educators.
This event is hosted by Shenandoah University under the direction of Dr. Matthew Niess (Director of Jazz & Commercial Music and Associate Professor of Trombone at Shenandoah Conservatory).
The Trifecta
The Mid-Atlantic Trombone Alliance is hosting The Trifecta, an afternoon dedicated to performance, composition, and well-being for low brass musicians.
Open to students and adult players of trombone, euphonium and tuba, this event offers coaching sessions, masterclasses, concerts and reading sessions.
It is a great opportunity for low brass players to enhance their skills and connect with fellow musicians.
Special Guest Artist
Jim Pugh
Jim Pugh is a distinguished trombonist, composer and educator. The inspiring virtuosity and wonderful versatility he has demonstrated during the course of his career has caused Pugh to be often honored as the “musician’s musician.” Whether he is performing as a concerto soloist in a symphonic setting, recording and touring with legendary artists in the fields of classical, jazz, and rock, or bringing forth his own exciting new compositions that expand the role of brass in contemporary music, his creativity knows no boundaries.
Faculty
Dr. Matthew Niess
Trombone
Shenandoah University
Andy Skaggs
Trombone
Shenandoah University
Dr. Jeffrey Cortazzo
Bass Trombone
Shenandoah University
Myles Blakemore
Trombone
University of Maryland
Dr. Andrew Lankford
Trombone
James Madison University
The Capitol Bones
Since its inception in 1991, The Capitol Bones have played throughout the country to include performances at the International Trombone Workshop in Las Vegas, Rochester, and Utah; jazz clubs; North Carolina with The Piedmont Winds; the Eastern Trombone Workshop in Washington, D.C.; and recorded four CDs. In addition to the standard arrangements, The Capitol Bones have recorded numerous new works to the jazz trombone ensemble repertoire by such notables as Conrad Herwig, Mike Tomaro, Mark Taylor, Jim Roberts and group leader Matt Niess.
The U.S. Army Brass Quintet
Since its inception in 1972, The U.S. Army Brass Quintet has gained a reputation as one of the most highly respected and sought after groups of its kind. The ensemble has appeared before audiences and dignitaries in 48 states and 14 foreign countries.
Guest University Ensembles
James Madison University Trombone Choir
Andrew Lankford, director
The University of Maryland Trombone Choir
Myles Blakemore, director
College Performers
The day is packed with trombone choir time, a well-being session, masterclass time, a faculty recital and an evening public recital open to all attendees to join in. When registering, please note if you have a request for any faculty member for coaching.
Composers
Join us for an exciting event featuring new trombone music composed by our resident composers. In addition to the performances, we will host a composers seminar where participants can ask questions and gain insights into composing specifically for the trombone.
This is a great opportunity to learn about copyright laws and how to protect your artistic work. Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your understanding of composition and networking with fellow musicians!
Where to Stay
Shenandoah University is located in Winchester, Virginia. The city is rich in history and offers a number of entertainment opportunities, community attractions, restaurants and more.
We’ve partnered with many local hotels that offer discounts to Shenandoah visitors, parents, students and alumni. Be sure to mention you are visiting Shenandoah University to get a discounted rate.
Financial Assistance
The $30 registration fee includes lunch, a t-shirt and admission to the full day of events.
Shenandoah Conservatory believes the arts are for everyone. Like all nonprofit arts organizations and higher education institutions, we strive to maintain our stewardship of limited resources and balanced budgets while intentionally removing barriers to participation and belonging. Full and partial scholarships are available to those who require financial assistance.
See the Mid-Atlantic Trombone Alliance Registration Form for more information about the registration fee and financial assistance.
Contact Us
Dr. Matthew Niess
Director of Jazz & Commercial Music
Associate Professor of Trombone
Shenandoah Conservatory
mniess@su.edu
