I’m writing a trombone concertino!

I’m beyond excited to be collaborating with Dr. Cole Bartels, Professor of Trombone at Central Michigan University, on a new work for solo trombone and wind ensemble. With the working title ‘Guiding Light’, this 10 minute work will portray the majesty of lighthouses as enduring beacons of home. I’ve already started writing some sea shanties to depict being lost at sea!

Band directors – if you want to get in on this, we have quite the deal for you! Thanks to a generous Creative Endeavors Grant from CMU, we’re offering a consortium option to have Dr. Bartels perform the piece with your ensemble. For just $150, you’ll help support the creation of this composition AND can book Dr. Bartels for two rehearsals and a concert during the ‘26-27 school year (probably like a $1000+ value!). The concert band parts will be a grade 4 and ensured to provide engaging and interesting material throughout.

I personally think this is an absolute steal – The chance to work with a world class trombonist and expose your students to this collaboration process for a fraction of the cost thanks to CMU’s generous grant. Dr. Bartels has been doing great work at CMU and has become a leader in commissioning and championing new repertoire in the trombone world at large, I’m very honored he asked me to write this piece for him. This is going to be a fun project!

Consortium Entry Form

Total Cost: $150
Deadline to Join: April 31, 2026
(Only 10 spots open, so be sure to sign up sooner than later!)
Anticipated Completion: August 15, 2026
Duration: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Advanced/professional trombone solo, and grade 4 band parts
Benefits to Consortium Members:

• Names of consortium members and ensembles included on the title page of the score
• Exclusive performance and recording rights for the 2026-27 school year
  • Dr. Chris Chapman and the Central Michigan University Symphonic Wind Ensemble will be the Consortium Director and premiere the piece at their first concert in Fall 2026
• Input on musical material and title
• Opportunity to perform the piece with Dr. Cole Bartels
  • Dr. Bartels is able to attend two rehearsals and perform at one of your concerts
    • All travel and clinician expenses are covered for schools up to 90 miles from Mt. Pleasant. For schools a greater distance away, additional travel and lodging expenses may apply

Feel free to email me at cehass11@gmail.com if you have any questions about the project!