Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood in New Orleans, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews got his nickname by wielding a trombone twice as long as he was high. A prodigy, he was leading his own band by age six, and today this Grammy-nominated artist headlines the legendary New Orleans Jazz Fest.
Along with esteemed illustrator Bryan Collier, Andrews has created a lively picture book autobiography about how he followed his dream of becoming a musician, despite the odds, until he reached international stardom. Trombone Shorty is a celebration of the rich cultural history of New Orleans and the power of music.
A 2016 Caldecott Honor Book and Coretta Scott King (Illustrator) Award Winner
-Description from Amazon.com
Listen to his music in class before or after group read-aloud….ask the kids to dance and jump to release energy!
Visit the musician’s website here!
About the Author
Recently, Andrews performed at the White House in 2012 and was invited back in May of 2014 when he was appointed a ‘Turnaround Artist’ of an Arts initiative program to assist lowperforming schools’ art programs. He also performed at the 2014 through arts Grammy Awards, accompanying Mackelmore and Ryan Lewis. Today, he is passing down his knowledge to the next generation through the Trombone Shorty Foundation to ensure the precious musical culture stays strong and the power of music continues to change the lives of future New Orleans musicians. Source: www.tromboneshortyfoundation.org.
Read Aloud Tips
- Preview the title and pictures with the children and ask if they can predict what the book is about.
- Go to the last pages of the book to see pictures of Trombone Shorty; discuss Tony Andrews the author of the book.
- Explain that the author is a Trombone player.
- Point out the awards that the book has won.
- Create a language wall that centers on Mardi Gras.
- Listen to Trombone Shorty’s music.
- As you read the book, be sure to stop and ask prediction questions along the way.
Additional Information
- To read reviews for Trombone Shorty, visit goodreads.com or abramsbooks.com.
- Visit http://www.tromboneshortyfoundation.org to learn more about the author’s story.
- To learn more about Andrews’ music, and listen to samples, visit tromboneshorty.com or the author’s Facebook page.