Robbie Ybarra

Hometown

Orange, California

Education

California Baptist University, M.M. in Instrumental Performance, 2023

California Baptist University, B.M. in Music Education, 2021

Instrument

Trombone

Biography

Robbie Ybarra is an accomplished musician and educator passionate about trombone performance and music education. His journey in music began at the age of nine. As he progressed through his school years, his dedication to music deepened. By the time he reached tenth grade, he had a clear and persistent ambition to transform his profound passion for music into a lifelong vocation.

Robbie's educational journey led him to California Baptist University, where he achieved significant milestones. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in music education in 2021 and a master's degree in trombone performance in 2023. His dedication to his craft was evident as he became an integral part of CBU's musical community. Robbie's versatility as a musician was on full display as he actively participated in various ensembles, including the Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, University Choir and Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, Opera Orchestra, and the Lancer Pep Band.

His multifaceted talents extended to theatrical arts and commercial playing, where he showcased his skills by playing trombone and euphonium for CBU's theater department in productions such as "Barnum" in the spring of 2019 and Shakespeare's "Love's Labour's Lost" in the fall of 2020. Has participated in full-scale operatic productions of Donizetti's L'elisir d'amore (The Elixir of Love) in February 2022 and Gounod's Roméo et Juliette in February 2023. In May 2023, he recorded for Rebel Run Studios' debut film, William Shakespeare's "The Tempest". These experiences broadened his horizons, enhancing his versatility in tenor trombone and bass trombone, particularly in traditional and Jazz music.

Robbie has showcased his talents on various stages throughout his musical journey, playing with The Jazz Cartel at Downtown Disney, Dr. Marshall Hawkins with Seahawk Modern Jazz Orchestra, and Dave Damiani with the Coachella Valley Symphony. He also played at the Jazz in the Pines Music Festival, Riverside City College Jazz Festival, and Redlands Jazz Festival.

Beyond his remarkable journey as a student, Robbie has transitioned into the role of an educator. Post-graduate school, He is freelance coaching in the Inland Empire and performing in SoCal. Also, he is a part of the CBU Collinsworth School of Performing Arts faculty as an adjunct professor, where he co-directs the Lancer Pep Band.

What inspired you to go into music?

My Dad and Papa inspired me to start on the trombone.

What is an interesting fact about you?

At the age of seven, I met Kobe Bryant.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?

I enjoy playing video games and board games with friends.

What are you most excited for about this 2024-2025 season?

I am excited to work with amazing musicians, new and old.

Favorite Musical Quote:

"Music doesn't care about you. It's a one-way love affair."

-Dr. Marshall Hawkins