TATIANNA CAPKO

Bass Guitar and Euphonium

Bachelor of Architecture ‘20 at Washington University in St. Louis

Inspiration

What inspired you to pursue playing various instruments?

I've been playing various instruments since I was in elementary school. Playing music has always been something that brings me joy, so I've made it a priority over the years to stay involved in music. The middle school concert band introduced me to euphonium, a low brass instrument commonly mistaken for a tuba, but with the tonal range of a trombone. I started playing bass guitar in high school because I wanted to jam along to my favorite music. Some of my inspirations for bass include Esperanza Spalding, Tonina, Victor Wooten, and Flea from Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Playing euphonium with Bear Nation Varsity Band at football game - Courtesy of Tatianna Capko

At Debate Weekend with fellow low brass players in Bear Nation Varsity Band - Courtesy of Tatianna Capko

Time Management

How did you manage to maintain your time?

For me, it was all a matter of scheduling time every week for bass lessons and establishing a routine that included practicing regularly. I also joined the pep band at my university (formally known as Bear Nation Varsity Band), the band the cheers on the athletic teams, to keep up my euphonium playing.

Resources

YouTube has been a huge resource for continuing my bass practice. Taking bass lessons at my university with a bass teacher and mentor whom I admire and respect tremendously also made all the difference (shout out to @tristanobeats !) Having friends interested in playing together has been key for organizing jam sessions.

Jam session at a friend's house - Courtesy of Tatianna Capko