Karianne Flåtene Nilssen

With a network of Artist Centres and Ateliers around the world, Yamaha works with leading players to support their performances and develop instrument designs and new ideas for the benefit of all musicians. Yamaha Artists share with us a passion for inspiring the next generation of players, and a belief that everybody should be encouraged to nurture their talent, connect with others and tell their stories through music.

Get to know trombone player and Yamaha Artist Karianne Flåtene Nilssen

How does your instrument help you in your daily life as an artist? How would you characterise your instrument?

My instrument helps me in my daily life as a musician in many ways. I believe consistency is a keyword here. The trombone has a great feel and sound throughout the whole register in all dynamics. The versatility of the instrument makes me capable of expressing myself in demanding repertoire across a wide range of genres.

Who was your most influential teacher and is there any advice which you still follow? 

I’ve been very lucky to have had the opportunity to study with several wonderful teachers, such as Leif V. Larsen, Blair Sinclair and PK Svensen. If I were to mention only one it has to be Grethe Tonheim. She’s been a huge inspiration to me on so many levels, both as a musician and teacher. Always sharing generously from her wisdom - I often find myself reflecting on her take on things. The most important lesson from her is probably the most obvious, but still a lesson to be learnt - to work hard to achieve my goals.

Advice for a young musician:

Quite the cliché, but true nonetheless: Follow your dreams, and work hard to get there.

"As a member of Stavanger Brass Band I’ve had a relation to Yamaha for quite some time, but admittedly it was not until recently that Yamaha trombones caught my eye. After visiting the workshop, putting together a custom made instrument, I could hardly believe the final result."

About Karianne Flåtene Nilssen

Karianne Flåtene Nilssen is Brass teacher at Stavanger School of Culture. Freelance musician. Solo Trombone, Stavanger Brass Band. Master degree, Institute of Music & Dance at University of Stavanger.

Karianne plays the Yamaha Custom Trombone with detachable bell. YSL-882OR