Interlochen Online's next session begins May 6—enroll in any course or certificate program now.

Chris Glassman

 Chris Glassman
Director of Jazz
Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver
Bachelor of Music, Classical Trombone Performance
Michigan State University College of Music
Master of Music, Jazz Studies on Trombone

About Chris

Chris Glassman is a bass trombonist from Littleton, Colorado. He has performed with legendary acts such as Michael Bublé, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Diane Schuur, Kurt Elling, Danilo Perez, and many others on coveted stages such as Madison Square Garden and Dizzy's Club Coca Cola. An avid improviser on bass trombone, Glassman joins the newest generation of jazz bass trombonists with three small-group jazz bandleader recordings on which he improvises on bass trombone. In addition, he has been commissioned to write arrangements for the Airmen of Note, Michael Bublé, and many jazz artists (Rodney Whitaker, David Sanborn, and many others). 

Passionate about mentorship, Glassman has been on the faculty at Brevard Music Center and has taught jazz and led ensembles at multiple universities, including Michigan State University and Saginaw Valley State University. He aims to help create resources through social media for aspiring trombonists. Among other things, he leads a podcast, has worked in arts entrepreneurship, and has a deep love for metal music, board games, his wife, Christine, and two cats, Muffin and Dobby.

Interested in learning with Chris?

Learn more about studying music at Interlochen Arts Academy.

Learn More

As an educator, I believe that music and art are integral parts of the human experience, and my goal is to inspire my students to love and appreciate jazz music while developing their technical skills to achieve artistic excellence. I view myself as a mentor, guiding students through the expansive history and theory of jazz and encouraging them to discover their unique artistic voice especially a voice that honors their specific and individual background. In addition to technical proficiency, I recognize that students pursuing a career in music today require a diverse set of skills, including networking, social media, business, entrepreneurship, and professional development. As a result, I prioritize teaching these skills to prepare students for success in the modern musical job market. Ultimately, my approach to teaching is rooted in creating an environment that fosters excellence, creativity, and personal growth. I am committed to supporting my students in their musical journeys, instilling a love of music, and empowering them to succeed as artists and professionals.

  • World Tour (including Madison Square Garden) with Michael Buble
  • Arranging Commissions for Michael Buble and The Airmen of Note
  • Featured Guest Artist at University of North Texas
  • "Top 100" and "Most Added" JazzWeek Chart placement for his album, Living The Dream
  • Four Star Review from Sterophile Magazine

B.M., Classical Trombone Performance - Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver
M.M., Jazz Studies on Trombone - Michigan State University College of Music