Biography
Elaine Mylius began her musical training on the violin at the age of three, influenced by her mother and grandfather who were both violinists. Growing up in a musically supportive family, Elaine learned under the Suzuki method and enjoyed many enriching summers at Suzuki camps, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, and participating in community youth orchestras with her brothers, who played cello and piano.
At ten, Elaine started learning the trombone to join her school band and developed a deep passion for the trombone while at Lakota West High School in West Chester, Ohio. She pursued this passion at The Ohio State University, studying under Joseph Duchi, bass trombonist for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and taking private lessons from several jazz instructors including Jim Masters, Kris Johnson, and Shawn Wallace. Her dedication earned her the Scantland scholarship competition and a place in the prestigious Disneyland All American College Band, performing at Disneyland and learning from music education and business professionals. She graduated in 2016, already making a living through teaching and performing.
Elaine's career expanded as she joined Columbus's top-rated wedding band, Conspiracy Band, and performed with string quartets and violin/piano duos at weddings. In 2018, she toured internationally with Princess Cruise Lines, performing in Spain, Portugal, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, South Korea, Canada, and the Caribbean. The 2020 pandemic halted her gigs, but it also spurred her creativity. She co-founded the Neo soul/chill hop band The OG Players, playing both trombone and violin with a loop station, booking over 70 gigs including performances at the Columbus Arts Festival and Jazz and Ribs Festival, and releasing three singles.
Elaine’s passion for teaching, especially the Suzuki method, grew during this time. She completed her Suzuki Book 1 Teacher Training with Vera McCoy-Sulentic in 2024 and plans to complete Books 2 and 3 by 2025. Elaine believes music instills essential life skills like patience, perseverance, and a beautiful heart, as emphasized by Suzuki's philosophy. With over ten years of teaching experience, she is dedicated to nurturing young musicians with kindness and involving parents to strengthen family bonds. Elaine also instructs youth jazz combos and school programs at Jazz Arts Group.
Currently, Elaine performs regularly with Conspiracy Band, Vaughn Wiester's Famous Jazz Orchestra, The OG Players, and more. She has opened for renowned artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire, Chicago, Cory Henry, and Robert Glasper. Elaine's rich experience, dedication to teaching, and love for music continue to inspire her students and audiences alike.
