SFCM’s brass program is getting some bold new talent with Christopher Bassett. The trombonist will join the faculty with a select studio of students this fall.

“It is an absolute honor to be joining the faculty at the renowned San Francisco Conservatory of Music,” Bassett said. “Teaching has long been a passion of mine, having worked with students for almost a decade now. To be able to work with the most dedicated and inspiring students who choose to come to SFCM is a dream come true.”

Bassett is also a member of the San Francisco Symphony (SFS); he joins the nearly two-dozen SFS musicians—many of them principals—who also serve as part of SFCM's faculty. Bassett was appointed bass trombonist of the lauded orchestra by Esa-Pekka Salonen in 2024.

“One of my favorite things about teaching is seeing the smile on a student’s face once they finally understand a skill we’ve been working on—when that one thing finally clicks,” Bassett continued. “There’s nothing better than getting to see a student grow and flourish.”

Bassett previously served as bass trombone with the St. Louis Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony, and Santa Fe Opera, and has also performed with the Boston Symphony, the Cleveland Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony, Detroit Symphony, and Indianapolis Symphony. 

In addition to his stellar performance skills and experience, Bassett is also passionate about working with the next generation of musicians. His students are consistently admitted to top festivals and college music programs. 

“We are thrilled to have a musician like Christopher join our faculty,” said Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Jonas Wright. “He is a fantastic performer and pedagogue and his addition to the Conservatory only deepens our relationship with the San Francisco Symphony, allowing us unparalleled educational opportunities for our students."

Bassett is a co-founder of the Southwest Trombone Conference. He also frequently serves as a guest artist and soloist around the globe. Students of his have won leadership positions in NYO2 USA, All-State Ensembles, and earned scholarships to study at top university music programs.

Bassett performs exclusively on his signature mouthpiece designed by Ultimate Brass. He is also a performing artist for Edwards Instrument Co., and Peck Custom Designs. His musicianship can be heard on Tres Amigos by the Santa Fe Trombones as well as on his debut solo album entitled In Dreams to be released in the spring of 2025.

A native of Oceanside, California, Bassett earned a bachelor of music from New England Conservatory and a master of music from Columbus State University.

Bassett joins SFCM's already-robust Brass Department which includes principal brass chairs of the San Francisco Symphony, as well as principal players of the San Francisco Opera and Ballet orchestras. These all-star musicians inspire the next generation of great players with small studios and unparalleled instruction, maintaining SFCM's competitive edge in this important family of instruments.

Learn more about studying brass at SFCM.