Tucson Community Music School, Tucson

Tucson Community Music School students learn long-lasting skills from international recording artists and experienced concert musicians. The school's founding trio, Brice Winston, Doug Tidaback, and Scott Black serve as the school's primary instructors, each bringing a different set of skills. Tucson native Brice spent 16 years performing with Jazz notables such as Brian Blade and Nicholas Payton before recording with Herbie Hancock and recording music for Spike Lee Films. Doug toured as a bass trombonist for nine years with the Monterey Symphony, and served as lead trombonist for the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, all while winning awards in numerous jazz festivals across the country. A career educator, Scott spent years working with prominent educators such as Barry Harris, and has done everything from teaching private music lessons to directing jazz schools.

With such an experienced staff of educators, students of Tucson Community Music School have opportunities to learn the ins and out of performing that go beyond just reading notes. During jazz and concert band classes and workshops, fledgling performers practice working with fellow musicians, learning how to harmonize without stealing all of the more advanced students' reeds. Through the school's various endeavors, students may also have the opportunity to practice, record, and travel to concerts near and far.