Senior Hanae Yoshida is the principal trombonist of Northwood’s Wind Symphony and has been practicing trombone day in and day out since she was a little girl. Her wide range of accomplishments include being a National Youth Orchestra (NYO) musician as well as the OC Register’s Artist of the Week. This month, The Howler had an opportunity to sit down with and chat with Yoshida about the impact of trombone on her life.

Ansh Talim and Atharva Patil: How did you first get involved with trombone?

Hanae Yoshida: I got involved with the trombone when I was in elementary school in the 5th grade. A trombonist from a local orchestra came and introduced the trombone to us, and that was when I was attracted to the sound of the trombone: powerful and loud, yet at times soft and gentle as well. From there on, trombone grew on me naturally, and I still hope to become better and better.

AT and AP: Are you part of any outside orchestras?

HY: I am part of the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra (PSYO), and I used to be part of the American Youth Symphony (AYS) as well. It is always a wonderful time getting to assemble with musicians to create great music!

AT and AP: How has playing the trombone shaped you as a person?

HY: I think playing and deciding to pursue a career in trombone has truly made me schedule my time smarter and realize what my priorities are. It has also helped me gain patience because nothing on the trombone can improve quickly; everything takes time and dedication.

AT and AP: What’s your proudest moment in your career with the trombone?

HY: I’ve never been very proud of myself with my trombone playing, but an unforgettable and appreciative day was when I got a friend request from my true inspiration since the beginning of my trombone career, Mr. Joseph Alessi. He is the principal trombonist of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, and I hope to meet him soon!

AT and AP: How does it feel being selected for prestigious national honors such as NYO and National Youngarts Week?

HY: I am very excited to be able to meet and perform with musicians of my age this year in an orchestra! I’m super excited to be able to play one of my favorite composers, Mahler, for the very first time. National Youngarts week was truly life-changing—it was like a therapy session where I was encouraged and reassured of my love of music.

AT and AP: Do you have any plans for the future with music?

HY: I hope to become an orchestral player, along with being a studio player for a movie soundtrack (or any kind of media). I love the concept of collaborating and being a part of a huge project that brings nothing but happiness in the end!