Chris Van Hof | Trombone, Ball State University | Studio HFL Podcast

Larry Powell sits down with trombonist and Ball State University professor Chris Van Hof to talk pandemic life, Spanish immersion schooling, a wild week hosting the International Trombone Festival, building a studio culture from the ground up, and his love of S.E. Shires instruments. Chris also shares what it was like working as a classical radio host in Rochester — and how that experience still shapes the way he plays and teaches today.

A warm, wide-ranging conversation for brass players, educators, and music lovers alike.

🎙️ Studio HFL is a podcast dedicated to in-depth conversations with brass musicians, teachers, and performers.

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Chapters

0:00 Intro

1:31 Welcome & Introduction

3:01 Pandemic Life, New House & Family

7:23 Summer Playing & Music Projects

13:22 Hosting the International Trombone Festival

46:23 Western Michigan, Eastman & Radio Career

47:00 Ball State University: Studio Goals & Teaching Philosophy

51:49 S.E. Shires Endorsement

1:03:30 Wrap-up & Closing