Adam Nissenbaum came to the trombone later than most, beginning at age 16, but his progress was rapid. Just a year later, he was accepted into the University of Arizona to study music performance, earning his Bachelor of Music in 2021. He’s now attending the University of Wisconsin, where he completed his Master of Music in 2023 and is currently pursuing his doctorate.
As a soloist, Adam is known for his rich, powerful sound. Composer Daria Tennikova wrote her Concerto for Bass Trombone and Chamber Orchestra for him in 2023. More recently, Dr. Lawren Brianna Ware composed Voices of Resistance for Adam, a solo work featuring trombone choir accompaniment. He premiered the piece during a guest appearance at Central Michigan University in 2025.
Adam is the bass trombonist and a founding member of the Beltline Bones, a touring trombone quartet dedicated to commissioning and performing new electroacoustic music while creating thought-provoking artistic experiences. The ensemble performed at the American Trombone Workshop in Washington, D.C., in 2024 and the International Trombone Festival in Ontario, Canada, in 2025. Their album, Audiogenica (2023), is available on Spotify.
Adam performed with the Madison Symphony Orchestra during their 2023-24 regular season, as well as on their Opera in the Park concert series.
His principal teachers include Mark Hetzler and Michael Becker, whose influence can be heard in his lyricism, rich tone, and expressive musicianship.
“My Edwards offers me every color imaginable to make the most beautiful scenes come to life in all settings. As a bass trombonist, I never have to worry about losing any warmth in my upper register or clarity down below. I know my Edwards has me covered.”