Keven Kraus
About
I am the bass trombone of the Eugene Symphony and trombone instructor at Oregon State University. I have been teaching lessons since I was in high school and worked with all age ranges from elementary to college. I currently have a private lesson studio of students from age 10-22.
Teaching Style
I prioritize giving clear, achievable goals to work towards in lessons. It is important to me that the students understand what and why they are practicing. My goal is to make the path to progress as simple as possible with every step along the way clearly laid out. I also encourage my students to have goals in their progress, from getting into their school's advanced band to preparing for a competition, because a clear goal can give so much more purpose to the practice.
Curriculum
I try not to recommend too many books at once. If you currently have method books, I will work from those when possible. Here are several of my core method books that I use in my own and my student's practice to great effect.
Remington, Emory (Hunsberger) Warm-Up Studies
This book gives a clear starting point to developing your fundamentals routine. It gives basic exercises that provide a great foundation to building your facility on the instrument.
J. B. Arban Complete Method Trombone Euphonium
Arban's Complete Method is a large book that contains an extremely wide range of technical exercises, etudes, and solos. It is a great book that can be useful for anyone, from beginners to professionals. It starts with basic exercises to teach notes, all the way to advanced concert solos.
Bordogni - Melodious Etudes for Trombone - Book 1
Bordogni's Melodious Etudes are a collection of melodies designed to help musicians develop their artistry and sound. The melodies are difficult for beginners, but this book is vital for any intermediate-advanced musicians.
Credentials & Affiliations
Bass Trombone, Eugene Symphony
May 2022 - Present
Trombone Instructor, Oregon State University
August 2025- Present
United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps “Commandant’s Own”, Washington, DC— Baritone Bugler
September 2012 - September 2015