Welcome to the UT Tuba/Euphonium Studio!
The Tuba/Euphonium Studio at the University of Tennessee is an active, student-centered community where musicians grow through personalized instruction, high-level ensemble experiences, and professional mentorship. With a strong emphasis on both individual artistry and collaborative performance, students are prepared for versatile careers in teaching, performance, and beyond.
Academics
No matter the academic program, students regularly perform in large ensembles – including two concert bands, a select wind ensemble, two jazz big bands, multiple jazz combos, and a full orchestra program – as well as in brass quintets, the UT Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble, and various quartets.
Undergraduate Programs
Students in the Tuba/Euphonium Studio may pursue either a Bachelor of Music (BM) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music, depending on their career goals and interests.
- The Bachelor of Music (BM) is a professional degree designed for students seeking advanced training in music performance, education, jazz, composition, or theory. Applied lessons are a central part of the degree for most concentrations (such as performance, education, and jazz) and may be optional in others (such as composition and theory).
- The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music is a flexible, interdisciplinary degree that allows students to study music in context with other fields such as media, business, communications, and culture. Applied lesson requirements are dependent on the chosen track.
Students should review the degree requirements carefully to see how applied lessons fit into their intended program of study.
Graduate Programs
Graduate students may pursue a Master of Music in Music Education or Music Performance with tuba/euphonium as their primary area of study.
Graduate Artist Certificate
Designed for highly accomplished performers seeking to refine their artistry, the Graduate Artist Certificate offers advanced study as a stand-alone program.
Meet Professor Alexander Lapins
Alexander Lapins, associate professor of tuba/euphonium, teaches applied tuba and euphonium, chamber music, brass pedagogy, and performs with the faculty brass quintet at the University of Tennessee. He is a founding member of Quintasonic Brass, and during the summer he serves as an instructor at the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. Lapins has also taught at Northern Arizona University, the University of Indianapolis, and Indiana State University.
Lapins has appeared as a soloist with orchestras, concert bands, and chamber groups. He has performed throughout the United States, China, South America, and Europe. A diverse performer, Lapins is the only tubist to have won fellowships at both the Tanglewood Music Center and the Henry Mancini Institute.
Graduates of the UT Tuba/Euphonium Studio have built successful careers across the music profession. Alumni have gone on to:
- Teach at public schools, community colleges, and universities
- Perform in professional orchestras, bands, and chamber ensembles
- Join professional brass quintets and military ensembles
Performance Opportunities
UT Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble: A featured studio ensemble performing original works and arrangements
College Ensembles: Participation in concert bands, wind ensemble, symphony orchestra, jazz big bands, and jazz combos
Chamber Music: Opportunities to play in tuba/euphonium quartets and brass quintets
Private Lessons & Studio Class: Weekly one-on-one lessons tailored to each student’s goals, along with solo and technique classes, guest masterclasses, and professional development discussions
Interested in the UT Tuba/Euphonium Studio?
Schedule a Music Major for a Day Experience or Building Tour!
Get a true sense of what it’s like to be a music major at UT! Sit in on classes, attend rehearsals, meet with Professor Lapins, and tour our beautiful facilities.
Learn How To Apply
Whether you’re applying as a first-time college student, transfer student, or graduate student, admission to the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music is a multi-step process that includes applying to the University of Tennessee and to our college. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Graduate Teaching Assistantships
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music offers a number of graduate teaching assistantships each academic year.
Assistantships carry a waiver of the university tuition, pays for mandatory university fees, medical coverage, and carries a monthly stipend.