Episode #45 - Larry Zalkind

Episode #45 - Larry Zalkind

Author: The Brass Ark & Bob Reeves Brass February 23, 2026 Duration: 1:23:51

The Trombone Corner Podcast is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass and The Brass Ark.  Join hosts Noah and John as they interview Larry Zalkind, former principal trombone of the Utah Symphony, as well as current professor of trombone at Eastman School of Music.

About Larry:

Larry Zalkind's illustrious career as a trombonist began with a twist of fate: reaching the instrument line in elementary school after all the trumpets were taken. Encouraged by his teacher that he "looked like a trombone player," he set off on a path that would lead him to the University of Southern California and the University of Michigan. Under the mentorship of legends like Tommy Johnson and Robert Marsteller, Larry quickly rose to prominence, winning the audition for Principal Trombonist of the Utah Symphony while still a doctoral student—a position he held with distinction for 34 years.
Beyond his long tenure in Utah, Larry's orchestral reach is vast. He has performed as Acting Associate Principal Trombone with the Los Angeles Philharmonic during Gustavo Dudamel's inaugural season and has recorded or performed with the Chicago, Atlanta, St. Louis, and Seattle Symphonies. A longtime member of the Summit Brass and a veteran of the Grand Teton Music Festival, his versatility also extends to the euphonium and solo performances with prestigious ensembles ranging from the U.S. Army Band to the Eastman Wind Ensemble.
Today, Larry serves as the Trombone Professor at the renowned Eastman School of Music. He is a deeply committed educator who has held faculty positions at several colleges and mentored students at festivals across the globe. As a Yamaha Artist, his influence even extends to the instruments themselves; he was a key figure in the design and production of the Yamaha 882OR large-bore tenor and alto trombone models that he plays today.
Outside of his professional life, Larry shares his musical passion with his family. He is married to violist Roberta Zalkind, whom he met as a student at the Music Academy of the West, and two of their three children have followed in their footsteps by pursuing careers in music. With three solo albums on the Summit Records label—including his latest crossover collaboration, Lost in the Stars—Larry continues to be a defining voice in the world of brass.

Ever wondered what happens in the minds of the musicians who bring that rich, sliding sound to life in orchestras, jazz clubs, and studios? The Trombone Corner pulls up a chair for candid, often surprising conversations with the artists behind the instrument. Hosted by the team at The Brass Ark and Bob Reeves Brass, this series goes far beyond technical talk, though you’ll certainly pick up insights about gear and practice routines. Each episode feels like a backstage pass, where players from across the globe share their personal journeys-the unexpected gigs that changed everything, the challenges of a demanding solo career, and the simple joy of finding the perfect phrase. You’ll hear stories from seasoned symphony veterans, innovative soloists pushing boundaries, and session legends whose work you’ve probably heard on countless recordings. It’s a deep dive into the culture and community of trombone playing, celebrating the dedication it takes to master this versatile brass voice. Tune in for a warm, engaging listen that connects the person to the music they create, making this podcast a unique find for musicians and avid music lovers alike.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 47

The Trombone Corner
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