How do you pronounce "Kolwinska"?
Are there playing opportunities for non-music majors at UT Martin?
What should I do as a high school student to prepare to be a music major?
How do I become a music major at UT Martin?
How do I set up an audition?
What should I play for my audition?
How much do I have to practice as a music major?
Do I need to own my own instrument?
What other expenses should I expect as a music major?
How long will it take me to get a music education degree from UT Martin?

How do you pronounce "Kolwinska"?
I get this question all the time. My Polish name is pronounced just like it looks: coal-WIN-ska. Most of my students call me "Dr. K" a few have even started calling me "Coach K" (with a nod to Coach Mike Krzyzewski of Duke University ).
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Are there playing opportunities for non-music majors at UT Martin?
Yes! You don't have to be a music major to make music here at UT Martin. Many of the members of the Skyhawk Marching Band are not music majors. Non-majors also participate in the Wind Ensemble and Concert Band. Each spring semester, the Low Brass Ensemble is open to all interested non-majors.
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What should I do as a high school student to prepare to be a music major?
If you are asking this question, you are probably already a member of your high school's band. That is a great start. You should also look for other performing opportunities such as honor bands, summer camps, and youth orchestras. Taking private lessons as a high school student is a great way to expand your abilities as a player. I have a limited amount of space in my pre-college studio for serious high school students. I can also help you find a teacher in your area if Martin is too far. I tell all my students to develop "big ears." You do this by attending live concerts and listening to recordings of great musicians. Finally, practice, practice, practice!!!
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How do I become a music major at UT Martin?
Think of this as a two-step process. First of all, you need to apply for admission to the University of Tennessee at Martin. Contact our Admissions Department for information about that. Second, you will need to audition to be admitted into the Music Department.
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How do I set up an audition?
The UTM Department of Music has scheduled audition dates each spring semester. You can also set up an audition by contacting me at jeremyk@utm.edu .
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What should I play for my audition?
Prepare two separate excerpts for your audition-one technical and one lyrical. Email me to get specific recommendations. You will also be asked to play a few major scales from memory.
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How much do I have to practice as a music major?
That depends. I don't expect perfection in lessons, but I do expect progress. Each student needs to be making consistent, steady progress toward the goal of becoming a professional musician. You will not be successful as a student or as a professional musician without consistent daily practice time. As a bare minimum, music education majors are expected to practice ten hours per week. Bachelor of Arts majors and music minors are expected to practice a minimum of five hours per week.
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Do I need to own my own instrument?
Yes. If you are serious about being a professional musician, you need your own horn. Trombonists are expected to have their own large bore horn with an F-attachment when they arrive on campus. Tuba and euphonium players may use a school horn for a few semesters, but should have their own instrument no later than their third year of study. Be sure to talk to me when you start shopping around. There are certain brands and features that are better than others, and I will be sure to help you make a wise choice.
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What other expenses should I expect as a music major?

As a musician, you will have to purchase several pieces of music or books each semester. Just like any course text book, these are required. However, the good thing is that as a professional musician, you will use your books and solos as resources in your own teaching and performing. Think of it as an investment! In addition to music, all music majors should own their own metronome and tuner. At some point, a portable tape recorder or mini-disc recorder would be a good idea. As a brass player, you will also need to purchase your own mutes. The most commonly used and least-expensive mute is the straight mute. After you purchase a straight mute, move on to a cup mute, plunger, and other types of mutes.
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How long will it take me to get a music education degree from UT Martin?

All our degree programs are set up so that you can complete them in four years. However, many of our students find it easier to slow down a little bit, and they end up doing their degree in four and a half or five years.
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If you have other questions about the UT Martin Low Brass Studio, feel free to contact Dr. Kolwinska. If you have questions regarding admission to UT Martin, please contact the UT Martin Admissions Department.

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