Caresse Virnig received a Bachelors of Music from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a Masters of Music from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, with a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Musicology. During the time between her Bachelors and Masters degrees, she studied at Penn State University, earning a Professional Performance Certificate in both solo performance and orchestral studies. Recently, Caresse joined the 208th Army Reserve Band as a Reserve Soldier where she holds the current rank of Specialist. In addition to being an Army Reserve musician, Caresse is the principal chair of the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra, and also free lances with other orchestras such as the Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra, the Wilson Symphony Orchestra, and the Chamber Orchestra of the Triad.
Brass
Private lessons are offered in trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, and tuba. Many of the brass students at CSM are actively involved in band programs at their elementary, middle, or high schools. Much of the focus in these private lessons is on improving technique and tone production as well as learning to perform specific pieces from those programs. Preparation for All County, All District, All State, and other auditions is included for those participating in these events. Brass instrument rentals are available through our partner site NEMC.
Instructors
Wyatt Carlyle
Wyatt Carlyle received a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where he studied under Dr. Abigail Pack. He maintains an active performance schedule with orchestras and chamber music ensembles across North Carolina and Virginia, performing in ensembles such as the Charlotte Symphony, Roanoke Symphony, Winston-Salem Symphony, and Western Piedmont Symphony. He currently serves as Principal Horn of the Durham Symphony Orchestra.
Michael Mole
Michael Mole, trumpet and Associate Director of Cary School of Music
Michael earned a Bachelor of Music degree in trumpet performance from UNC-Chapel Hill and has been teaching at Cary School of Music since 1995.
Mr. Mole is in high demand as a freelance trumpet player and has performed with countless professional ensembles in the triangle area including North Carolina Theatre, DPAC orchestra, Raleigh Symphony Orchestra, Durham Symphony Orchestra, Tar River Orchestra, Theatre Raleigh, Playmaker’s Theatre, Raleigh Little Theatre, Temple Theatre and Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra, to name a few. Michael lives in Cary with his wife, Ginger, their three sons, Dylan, Ryan and Owen and their dog, Twix. He enjoys working with trumpet students of all ages.
John Morrison
John Morrison taught instrumental music and marching band in the Metuchen and Rumson-Fair Haven school systems in NJ for 28 years. He also served as the Director of Music at Lincroft Presbyterian Church, NJ, conducting the choir. Mr. Morrison holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Hartt School, CT, and a Master of Music Education degree from Rutgers University, NJ. He received private trumpet instruction from Roger Murtha, William Babcock, and William Fielder, and studied conducting and solfege with Attilio Poto and George Monseur in Boston. Mr. Morrison has enjoyed a varied performance career. He has played with the Atlantic Brass Quintet, the Premier Theater Company, Phoenix Productions, The Algonquin Theater, and the Two River Theater. For 25 years he was a member of the St. Peter’s Orchestra by the Sea. In North Carolina he has performed with the Duke Wind Symphony, The Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra, and the Raleigh Jazz Orchestra.
He has devoted the last several years to producing materials that may be used in the classroom that are intended to painlessly acquaint students with master composers of the last two centuries. Mr. Morrison now resides with his wife Catherine in Cary, NC, close to two daughters and their families.
Marshall Sweet
Marshall Sweet has a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a concentration in Instrumental Studies. He has been a member of the UNCC Band as a trombonist, was lead trombone in the UNCC Jazz Band, played tuba and trombone in the UNCC Concert Band, was principal Trombone with the UNCC Symphony Orchestra, and was trombonist with the Charlotte Concert Band. He was the horn line instructor with the Olympic High School Band in Charlotte, and is the Heartsong Co Music Director at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Raleigh. Marshall is licensed as an educator in the state of NC in Music K – 12, is proficient in teaching winds, strings, percussion, piano and voice, and has much experience in utilizing music composition and other software. As a member of the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia – Sigma Beta Chapter, Marshall was chapter president and has been a member of the NAFME. Marshall achieved Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America and was on the Dean’s List as a college student at UNCC. He has been teaching trombone and tuba at CSM since 2014 and throughout this time has helped his students to place in auditions such as All-County, All –District, and All-State Middle and High School Bands.
Marlin Thomas
Marlin Thomas, tuba and low brass
Marlin, like the fish, Thomas is the new Professor of Low Brass at NC State starting in Fall of 2025. He holds a Bachelor’s of Music Education degree and Honors College Certificate from the University of Maryland in 2022. In 2025 he earned a Master of Music degree with concentrations in Tuba Performance and Conducting from the University of New Mexico. Throughout his playing career, Marlin has performed with professional ensembles like the Capital City Symphony in Washington DC, and the Albuquerque Philharmonic Orchestra in Albuquerque New Mexico. Mr. Thomas has also performed in many university ensembles like the UMD Wind Ensemble, UMD Wind Orchestra, UNM Wind Symphony, UNM Symphony Orchestra, and the UNM Jazz Band during their performance of Arturo O’Farrill’s The Cornel West Concerto. Outside of music, Mr. Thomas enjoys cooking, hiking, and playing board games with his girlfriend.
Caresse Virnig
Brass Lessons Focused on Technique, Tone, and Performance
Brass lessons at Cary School of Music offer personalized instruction in trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, and tuba, helping students strengthen technique, tone, and performance skills while supporting school band success.
Overview of Brass
For students looking for brass lessons in Cary NC, Cary School of Music provides a structured and supportive environment where musicians can develop strong fundamentals and real performance confidence. Private lessons are available for trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, and tuba, allowing students to receive one-on-one instruction tailored to their specific instrument and skill level. Whether a student is just starting out or already performing in a school band, lessons are designed to meet them where they are and help them advance. Many students enrolled in brass lessons in Cary NC are actively involved in their elementary, middle, or high school band programs. Because of this, lessons often focus on improving the exact skills needed for success in those ensembles. Students work on assigned band music, refine their playing, and gain a deeper understanding of their role within a group setting. This targeted approach helps students perform more confidently and stand out in rehearsals and performances. Technique and tone production are at the core of every lesson. Students learn proper breathing techniques, embouchure development, articulation, and control, all of which are essential for producing a strong, consistent sound. These fundamentals are critical for long-term success and allow students to progress steadily without developing bad habits. Instructors take a step-by-step approach, ensuring that each student builds a solid technical foundation while continuing to challenge themselves musically. For students interested in advancing their opportunities, audition preparation is a key component of the program. Lessons can be tailored to prepare for All County, All District, All State, and other competitive auditions. Instructors provide guidance on technique, musical interpretation, and performance readiness, helping students feel confident and prepared when it matters most. This level of preparation gives students a clear path to achieving their goals. Accessibility is also an important part of the program. Brass instrument rentals are available through a trusted partner, making it easy for new students to begin without needing to purchase an instrument right away. This flexibility allows families to explore brass classes in Cary NC with confidence and convenience.
A Company You Can Trust
Cary School of Music has been a trusted part of the Cary community since 1993, providing high-quality music education to students of all ages and skill levels. This long-standing reputation reflects a commitment to excellence, consistency, and student success. The facility is designed to support focused learning and performance. With multiple private studios and a dedicated recital hall, students benefit from an environment that encourages both practice and growth. It is a place where students can feel comfortable developing their skills while receiving expert instruction. The instructors are a key reason families continue to choose this program. Each brass teacher brings experience in both performance and education, allowing them to guide students effectively at every level. They understand how to tailor lessons to individual needs, ensuring that students stay engaged while making steady progress. Convenience is another major advantage. Lessons are offered throughout the week, and students can enroll at any time of the year. This flexibility makes it easy for families to begin brass lessons in Cary NC without waiting for a new session to start.
Why Clients Choose Cary School of Music
Families searching for trumpet lessons, trombone lessons, or French horn lessons in Cary NC often choose Cary School of Music because of its personalized approach. Every student receives one-on-one instruction that is tailored to their goals, whether that means improving school band performance, preparing for auditions, or simply enjoying music. The strong connection to school band programs is another major benefit. Students receive focused support that directly improves their performance in those ensembles, helping them feel more confident and capable. This alignment between private lessons and school music leads to faster progress and better results. Audition preparation is also a key reason clients choose this program. With expert guidance and structured practice, students are better equipped to succeed in competitive environments like All County or All State auditions. This opens the door to new musical opportunities and experiences. Finally, the proven track record of Cary School of Music sets it apart. With decades of experience serving Cary and surrounding communities, the program continues to deliver results that families trust. Students leave each lesson not only improving their skills but also building a lasting appreciation for music and performance.
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Services
Business Hours
Mon: 12–8 PM
Tue: 3–8 PM
Wed: 3–8 PM
Thu: 3–8 PM
Fri: 3–6 PM
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed
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