Music instruction: Kyle Rightley

Kyle Rightley is a passionate instructor of trombone, tuba, euphonium, guitar, music theory, improvisation, and songwriting.

A native of Colorado, Kyle’s academic and professional music careers have taken him across the country. He has contributed as a guitarist and writer to rock/pop groups such as The Big Payback, Silent Earth, and The Guppy Effect. He has performed in such venues as the Vaudeville Mews in Des Moines and the Brat Fest main stage in Madison.

Equally important to Kyle's pop music exploits is his formal background in classical and jazz music. Kyle received his Bachelor of Music degree in euphonium performance from the University of Colorado-Boulder and the Master of Music degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. As a trombonist and euphoniumist, Kyle has performed an eclectic range of music in multiple wind ensembles, jazz big bands, and orchestras. With a passion for musical collaboration, Kyle has also played in numerous chamber groups, competed in international chamber competitions, and premiered new works. He is currently a member of the Madison Brass.

Why I Teach

The first thing you should know about me is that I’m a certified music geek! I love listening to music, playing music, writing music, talking about music, and teaching music. As a teacher, my goals are to spread my own passion for the subject while learning what inspires my students. I believe the technique of actually playing the instrument (notes, chords, scales, fingerings, etc…) should be an offshoot of your love of music.

I teach low brass, guitar, songwriting, music theory, and improvisation. I have had students of all different ages, skill sets, and areas of interest. It is my goal in every lesson to cultivate an atmosphere of learning and fun, and to establish a two-way flow of musical ideas between teacher and student. We will examine music from a multitude of styles and backgrounds, explore the techniques necessary to control the instrument, and ultimately learn to better express ourselves through music!

Whether your goal is to perform in a competition, try out for a band, write a new song, or just take your playing to the next level, my job is to identify that goal and help you on your way. I use a variety of method and theory books, and our lesson time will be divided between individual playing, duet playing, listening, and discussion. All I ask from my students is that they do their part in reaching their goals. This boils down to individual practice time away from lessons, showing up for lessons prepared, and trying your best at all times! Whatever your personality may be, I want to help it shine through your music.