Steven Thompson, professor of music at American River College, enjoys an active career as a performer and teacher. He has been a member of numerous orchestras including the Los Angeles Classical Ballet, Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional de Costa Rica, Hiroshima Symphony, New West Symphony, Wichita Symphony, and American Youth Symphony. Steven received his Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music degrees from the University of Southern California.

Having taught the trombone for more than four decades, I've encountered a wide range of challenges that students face when learning to play the instrument. While there are some tried-and-true methods for addressing these hurdles and improving musical performance, each student is unique and brings their own set of goals to the table. My approach to teaching is centered on guiding you toward becoming the musician you aspire to be. This involves exploring a variety of styles and musical traditions, and tailoring my instruction to your individual needs and preferences. My ultimate aim is to instill a deep and abiding love of music and the trombone, inspiring a lifelong passion for this incredible instrument.

I believe that patience and persistence are key. I have a range of standard warm-up and technical exercises, as well as a syllabus of method books and solos that are tailored to each student's level of ability. However, I also recognize that every student is unique and may require additional materials or targeted studies to address specific challenges. Whether it's preparing for auditions, solo recitals, competitions, or delving into improvisation studies, I take great pleasure in identifying these needs and guiding my students toward success in their musical pursuits. As an instructor, nothing brings me more satisfaction than watching my students grow and develop their skills as musicians and individuals. By fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment, I strive to help every student reach their full potential and find joy in the process of making music.