Mario Montes Aguilera
I’m originally from Almería, in southern Spain – that’s where I first started playing the trombone. Later, I moved to Madrid for my studies, and then to Berlin. During those years, I had the chance to play with international youth orchestras and take part in all kinds of concerts – as a soloist, in orchestras, and in different ensembles.
Right now, I’m the solo trombonist at the Philharmonisches Staatsorchester Hamburg and also work as an assistant teacher at the University of Music and Theatre in Hamburg. I stay active with chamber music projects and other ensembles, always looking for new ways to express myself through music.
Before coming to Hamburg, I was solo trombone at the Norddeutsche Philharmonie in Rostock. I’ve also had the chance to play with great orchestras like the Bamberger Symphonyker, the Staatskapelle Berlin, and the NDR Elbphilharmonie – and with groups like the Boulez Ensemble under Zubin Mehta, Salaputia Brass, and Unitedberlin.
In the past few years, I’ve really gotten into teaching. I enjoy working with young trombonists, sharing what I’ve learned, and being part of their musical and personal growth. For me, education is key to helping musicians find their own path and develop their own voice.
One thing I’ve learned over time: nothing comes without putting in the work. Everything I’ve achieved so far is the result of staying consistent and putting in the effort – on stage and off. Every rehearsal, every lesson, every concert has always been a chance to keep learning.
Music is how I express myself – and I keep pushing to grow a little more every day.