Javier Colomer

Trombone

Participated in the 2013 edition

I’ve spent my whole life devoted to music with my trombones—instruments that have brought me immense joy. And even if there were times when the opposite was true (which has also been the case), all the good they’ve given me in return more than makes up for it. I’ve also been passionate about new technologies for a long time. I designed and launched my first website in 1998, and since then I’ve been immersed in this digital world, which has helped me so much in both my personal and professional life. My whole story began when I was 11 years old. That was in my hometown, Cocentaina. My first steps as a musician were with the band that saw me come of age as a musician, La Unión Musical Contestana. My first instrument was an Artist brand valve trombone that weighed as much as—or more than—I did. After the first two months, I don’t know what it was about that instrument, but I quickly fell in love with it. Over time, I developed my skills, and there came one of those moments when you say to yourself, “This is what I want to be.” A professional musician! That happened on the first international trip I had the opportunity to take. That was in Paris, at a brass instrument festival. There I met the great performers of the time—many of whom, by the way, are still at the forefront today. That was in 1989. That trip completely changed my life when I heard the Slokar Trombone Quartet and Canadian Brass. That experience guided my path. That trip completely changed my life when I heard the Slokar Trombone Quartet and Canadian Brass. That experience set me on my path. What followed was a series of events that have led me to where I am today.

I can say today that I’ve achieved my dream. Although it’s worth noting that the journey has not been easy at all. I am very happy and grateful that, thanks to my tireless and consistent work, I have had the good fortune and opportunity to meet and work professionally alongside the great performers on the trombone, trumpet, French horn, tuba, and all other instruments from both the late 20th century and the early 21st century. Being able to travel the world as a professional musician has allowed me to form wonderful friendships in every place I’ve visited. I feel truly privileged. Likewise, I believe my work has helped many others achieve their goals, dreams, and aspirations. In fact, that is the greatest reward I can take with me. So I have several missions in my life: to help musicians achieve their goals; to teach young people—and those not so young—to play the trombone; to nurture good musicians with dignified and fair values; and to share all my knowledge with the world. Many have already experienced this. You can read the testimonials of some of these people here. Today, I’m still going strong, just as when I started—with the same energy, enthusiasm, and desire to continue contributing to this world, especially the world of music. I’ve now been in this profession for 25 years, and I’d like to continue for another 25.