Michael Nave

Trombone instruction

Michael Nave is an active trombonist and educator based in Central New York. He has performed with a wide range of ensembles, including Symphoria, the Catskill Choral Society, Syracuse Stage, and the Cayuga Chamber Orchestra. A versatile and sought-after freelancer, Michael regularly performs across the region in styles ranging from classical and chamber music to jazz, rock, salsa, and musical theater.

Michael is the band director at Newark Valley Middle School where he proudly maintains a beloved instrumental program. He is also a visiting lecturer of jazz trombone at Cornell University and has been the trombone instructor at Ithaca College’s Summer Music Academy since 2015. He is passionate about sparking students’ love for music and enjoys teaching musicians at all levels.

Michael earned both his Master’s in Music Performance and Bachelor’s in Music Education from Ithaca College. During his time there, his trombone quartet was two-time finalist at the Fort Worth Trombone Summit in Texas. He currently serves as bass trombonist for the Fall Creek Brass Band, an energetic Ithaca-based group known for its presence at local festivals and community events. Outside of music, he enjoys traveling, playing basketball and tennis, and exploring Ithaca’s nature.