13 February 2025
Connecting Culture to Classical Trombone: A Reflection by Jack Saltmere
Written by Jack Saltmere, February 2025
Throughout the session with Deborah Cheetham, many different topics were passed around the room (zoom). Ideas of cultural confidence and cultural competence, to feelings about preparing and playing music and finding the love in the process. Being able to learn so much from Deborah in this short hour and a half time was a gift, especially how almost everything seemed to resonate with me. However, there were two points that really are important to me, and me to my development as a musician. My love for music, and how I should have confidence, culturally and just in general.
People often ask me if I really love playing my music, or if I’m sure that’s what I want to pursue after school. I have always had the same response, “Yes of course I want to, what makes you think I don’t?”. Even though I always say the same thing, I sometimes doubt myself. Do I really want to do this after school? And up until this session with Deborah I have been feeling unsure if I’m making the right decision. But Deborah taught
me what it should feel like when you love music. Not just music itself, but being able to perform it, and being able to share your passion with those who want to listen.
But this doubt in myself leads back to my lack in confidence at times. Another problem that I feel has been brought to light by the session. Deborah explained extremely well, the importance of being confident in what you feel and what you do. I learnt that being able to back yourself when you are having doubts is crucial in this field of work, as you will never be able to accomplish anything without that confidence.
Another point that really struck me was connecting your music to culture.
Obviously, country and culture are very important to me as I am Aboriginal myself, however I have always had issues trying to connect my Trombone and music to my culture. Deborah
made very interesting points about cultural competence, confidence and being able to connect your instrument or passion to your culture.
However, I have always had issues getting people from my culture and home to really embrace the instrument that I play and what I do, as classic trombone isn’t really something that they can connect with
and understand. Although I would love for my mob to really get on board with what I do,
this is something I will have to grapple with for the foreseeable future.