Derek White

Derek is our Brass Specialist. While his primary instrument is tuba, he also teaches lessons on the trumpet, horn, trombone, and euphonium. He is a Music Education major at the University of Oregon. So if you want to learn the trumpet or any other brass instrument, Derek's your teacher!

How did you end up at Music Masters?

One of the former teachers, a good friend of mine, told me that he was leaving, and the store was looking for a new brass teacher.  I interviewed, and ended up being the first-call substitute for a little bit.  It didn't end up working out with the other person, so I've been around ever since.

What sparked your passion for music?

My dad always claimed that it was he would put me in my rocker as a baby, put me in front of the entertainment center, and he'd put on his loud rock music.  I guess I would jam along for hours.

How'd your music go from there?

I loved music/art class in elementary school.  When I was able to join band in 5th grade, I originally wanted to play drums.  My parents said I'd have to practice in our sketchy garage if I wanted to play drums, so I settled for trombone.  I switched to tuba in middle school, and never looked back.

Who would you most want to jam with?

I don't know how into jamming he was, but Gustav Mahler wrote some great stuff, and I'd love to have been able to hang out with him.  Leonard Bernstein is another composer I'd love to play under.

What do you express through your music?

I try to be a storyteller with sound.  Playing brass is so closely related to singing, so I try my best to imitate singers to tell stories with my music.

Your message to aspiring artists?

Listen to as much music as you possibly can.  If you find something you like, devour it.  Find that artist's influences, and follow the chain.  There is something out there for everyone, you just have to find it.

Derek teaches:

Trumpet Lessons

Tuba Lessons

Trombone Lessons

Euphonium Lessons

French Horn Lessons