Biography

Christian Paarup: Performance Psychology Consultant, Orchestral Trombonist, and Educator

Christian Paarup is a San Francisco-based performance psychology consultant, orchestral trombonist, and teacher. With a career encompassing international performances, a dedication to education, and a focus on mental performance, Christian helps musicians and performing artists unlock their potential and achieve their goals.

Performance Forte: Bridging Music and Psychology

Driven by his experiences as a professional musician, Christian founded Performance Forte, a consultation business dedicated to helping musicians and performing artists overcome mental barriers and reach their potential. Currently nearing completion of his Master’s degree in Sport & Performance Psychology at the University of Western States, Christian is also working toward becoming a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). He offers practical tools and strategies to build confidence, focus, and resilience in high-pressure situations.

A Distinguished Career in Performance

Christian’s orchestral journey includes performances with ensembles such as the San Francisco Symphony, San Francisco Opera & Ballet, Dallas Symphony, Houston Symphony, Utah Symphony, Fort Worth Symphony, Louisiana Philharmonic, and Hawai’i Symphony. During the 2021-2022 season, he served as an acting member of the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra in Helsinki, Finland.

Christian has also recorded for film soundtracks at the iconic Skywalker Ranch and performed with renowned artists such as Beck, The Who, Hugh Jackman, Weird Al, Chris Botti, and Andrea Bocelli.

Christian’s passion for collaboration extends to chamber music. He is a co-founder of Fort Worth Brass and a frequent guest with Bay Area ensembles such as Nomad Session and Brass Over Bridges. Additionally, he has performed with Gusto Winds, a San Francisco Symphony Adventures in Music ensemble, bringing live music to thousands of schoolchildren annually.

A Passionate Educator

Christian’s commitment to education is evident in his multifaceted roles at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM). He serves as a trombone faculty member for the Pre-College & Continuing Education Academy and is on faculty for performance psychology. Christian has also taught at Baylor University and Dallas College, guiding students toward notable achievements, including placements in prestigious All-State ensembles and scholarships to leading collegiate music programs.

In addition to private instruction, Christian founded the Trombone Choir of North Texas and the first-ever SFCM Continuing Education Low Brass Ensemble, which serves the Bay Area community. He has also served as guest faculty at the Mountain Light Music Festival and appeared as a featured artist at the University of Florida International Brass Festival.

Creative Pursuits

Beyond performing and teaching, Christian’s creative contributions include composing, arranging, and publishing new works for brass through his company, Paarup Music Editions. His publications have been showcased at events such as the International Trombone Festival and the American Trombone Workshop, with performances by ensembles worldwide. Recent projects include arranging folk music programs for chamber ensembles and orchestras.

Personal Life

When he’s not consulting, performing, or teaching, Christian spends time with his wife, Tori, and their Yorkshire Terrier, Frodo, exploring the Bay Area’s natural and cultural offerings.

Christian Paarup’s career reflects his dedication to performance psychology, music, and education, providing valuable insights and support to the performing arts community.