Mark Kellogg: A Legacy of Trombone Excellence at Eastman and Beyond

Mark Kellogg is a highly respected American musician, educator, and administrator, renowned for his contributions to the world of trombone performance and instruction. Currently a Professor of Trombone at the Eastman School of Music, his career spans orchestral performance, jazz, teaching, and arts leadership.

Early Career and Orchestral Performance

Kellogg began his musical journey with a strong foundation in performance, earning both a bachelor’s degree and a performer’s certificate from the Eastman School of Music, where he studied with John Marcellus and Cherry Beauregard. [1] He honed his skills as a trombonist, becoming a member of several prominent orchestras, including the San Francisco Symphony, Syracuse Symphony Orchestra, and National Repertory Orchestra. For twenty-eight years, Kellogg also performed as a member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. [1]

Eastman School of Music: A Multifaceted Role

Since 1991, Kellogg has been a dedicated faculty member at the Eastman School of Music. [1] He currently holds the position of Professor of Trombone and serves as chair of the Winds, Brass and Percussion Department. [1] His responsibilities extend beyond teaching classical and jazz trombone and euphonium. he is also an affiliate faculty member in Jazz and Contemporary Media and Music Teaching and Learning. [2]

Leadership and Program Development

Kellogg’s commitment to musical education is evident in his leadership roles at Eastman. He is the Co-Director of the Eastman Trombone Choir and Director of the Eastman Brass Guild. [1] He also directs the school’s Faculty Development Program, demonstrating his dedication to mentoring and supporting fellow educators. [1] He founded the Eastman Summer Trombone Institute in 2006, a week-long workshop for trombonists of all levels. [1] In 2014, he co-hosted the International Trombone Festival at Eastman. [1] He also initiated a course called “Parallels Between Acting and Musical Performance” inspired by his son, Rob Kellogg, a professional actor. [1]

Jazz Performance and Collaborations

Beyond his classical work, Kellogg is a versatile jazz performer. He is a co-founder of the jazz group Rhythm & Brass. [2] He has collaborated with a diverse range of renowned musicians, including Clark Terry, Wynton Marsalis, Eddie Daniels, Mel Tormé, Jeff Tyzik, Gene Bertoncini, Allen Vizzutti, and Steve Gadd. [2]

Personal Life

Mark Kellogg resides in Pittsford, New York, with his wife, Joanna Bassett, a flautist and associate dean of the Hochstein School of Music & Dance. [2]