About The Lab
If you’ve ever sat down to practice and wondered, “What should I be working on today?”—you’re not alone.
One of the biggest obstacles to improvement isn’t a lack of talent or motivation. It’s a lack of direction.
That’s why I created The Low Brass Lab
My goal is simple: to help low brass players make every minute in the practice room count.
Whether you’re a middle school student learning your first scales, a high school musician preparing for auditions, a college performer refining your fundamentals, or an adult returning to the instrument, I believe purposeful practice leads to meaningful progress.
The Low Brass Lab is built around skill-focused resources paired with proven solutions that help you overcome real playing challenges. Instead of overwhelming you with endless exercises, I want to provide clear practice systems that answer questions like:
How do I build a richer, more resonant sound?
How can I improve my articulation?
What’s the best way to develop range and flexibility?
How should I prepare for an audition?
What should I actually practice each day?
Every guide, exercise, and video is designed with one goal in mind: helping you practice with intention so you can perform with confidence.
Meet Zach Bixler
I’m Zach Bixler, and I’m a low brass educator, performer, and lifelong student of music.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching a large and diverse private studio of students at every stage of development. Working with so many musicians has reinforced one lesson above all else: successful students aren’t always the ones who practice the longest—they’re the ones who practice with purpose.
Through hundreds of private lessons, I’ve seen the same questions, struggles, and breakthroughs happen again and again. Those experiences have shaped the resources you’ll find here.
Every exercise, practice guide, and video has been tested and refined with real students in real lessons. These are practical tools that have helped musicians build stronger fundamentals, develop greater confidence, and enjoy the process of making music.
Welcome to the Lab
Think of this as a place to experiment, discover, and grow.
Whether you’re looking for a daily warm-up, a solution to a specific playing challenge, or a structured plan to reach your next musical goal, I hope these resources help you become a more confident and capable musician.
Thanks for being here.
Now grab a coat and goggles, and let’s get to work.