Justin Leach
Justin Leach is an active teacher, trombone player, arranger, and composer across the New England area. Justin earned his Bachelor of Arts in Trombone Performance (2020) from the University of New Hampshire, where he studied with Nic Orovich. Recently, Justin earned his Master of Music in Trombone Performance (2024) from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, where he studied with Greg Spiridopoulos. In addition to his Masters, Justin also earned a Graduate Certificate in Jazz Arranging/Composition, and had the opportunity to study with Jeff Holmes and Felipe Salles.
As an active trombone player, Justin performs professionally across New England with a variety of ensembles. Justin is currently a member of the Valley Winds (where he doubles on bass trombone), Shokazoba, and Foreside Funk (where he is also the music arranger). Justin frequently appears with the University of New Hampshire Faculty Brass Quintet, the Portsmouth Brass Quintet, and is a former member of the Boston Youth Symphony, and the Portland Youth Ensembles. During his time in the robust jazz programs at UNH and UMass, Justin shared the stage with incredible guest artists such as Delfeayo Marsalis, Marshall Gilkes, Paul McKee, Sean Jones, Trent Austin, Chris Potter and Dave Pietro.
Justin is a prolific composer/arranger, having produced hundreds of pieces for various groups and styles. In 2021, Justin won the International Trombone Association's composition contest for his work "Sixth Type," which premiered at the International Trombone Festival in Columbus, Georgia. Justin's compositions and arrangements have also been performed at the University of New Hampshire, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Florida Atlantic University, Texas Woman's University, and across New England through local acts such as Foreside Funk, the Rockingham Groove, and the Portsmouth Brass Quintet. Justin has experience writing for all types of trombone ensembles, big bands, orchestras, brass quintets, rock bands, jazz groups, and funk units.
As a teacher, Justin began offering private lessons while still in high school, and has since worked with a variety of students ranging in all ages and abilities. He has also taught group coachings and masterclasses locally and internationally. His own unique experiences and hurdles while learning trombone have molded him into a patient and supportive teacher who is equipped to work with any type of student. His sense of humor also makes lessons fun, and his optimistic attitude is a source of positive motivation for his students.