The Modern Trumpeter Podcast

In this episode, Mark Rudin shares his story and how he has become a world class producer and horn section specialist.

This week we hear from the Principal trumpet player of the Cleveland Orchestra, Michael Sachs.

In this week's episode we speak with trumpeter Evan Taylor

Welcome to the channel! We’re dedicated to helping trumpet players learn how to make a living at the trumpet and hear from professional players who are doing it. In addition to this podcast, we are writing a book called The Modern Trumpeter, A Guide to Building a Versatile and Successful Career. This book will be available at the end of 2026. With insights and stories from dozens of professional trumpet players working in jazz, classical, commercial, and military settings, this book gives you the tools, mindset, and insider knowledge to turn your talent into a sustainable career. Insights, stories and behind the scenes of the music industry are provided by the likes of Wayne Bergeron, Bobby Shew, Bria Skonberg, Bijon Watson, Marcus Printup, Glen Marhevka, Dave Richards, Jay Webb, Jerry Hey, Brian MacDonald, Kiku Collins, and many more!Follow us on social media.IG: https://www.instagram.com/moderntrumpeter/Click here to get a FREE PDF of the top 100 songs you will get asked to play in any corporate/wedding band. moderntrumpeter.comLink to our online store: https://mountaintop-music.myspreadshop.com/Visit moderntrumpeter.com to preorder the book and get updates!

In today's episode of the Modern Trumpeter, we speak with Dave Richards.

In today's interview we talk with up and coming trumpeter,  Grace Fox. Welcome to the channel! We’re dedicated to helping trumpet players break into the commercial music and wedding band scene. Through step-by-step guides, professional tips, and insider insights, we’ll show you how to land gigs and elevate your career. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your skills, our content is designed to support your musical journey. Subscribe for  advice, inspiring stories, and practical resources to help you succeed in the vibrant world of music.Follow us on social media.IG: https://www.instagram.com/moderntrumpeter/Click here to get a FREE PDF of the top 100 songs you will get asked to play in any corporate/wedding band. moderntrumpeter.com 

In this week's episode of the Modern Trumpeter Podcast, we sit down with Lorenzo Trujillo. He currently is assistant principle trumpet for the US Army Band Pershing's Own and is a former member of the Dallas Brass, Frankie Valli and a host of others.

 In this week's episode of the Modern Trumpeter Podcast, we get to speak with Randy Brecker of the Brecker Brothers. Learn how he got his start and the road to the formation of one of the most recognizable jazz groups in the late 20th century. 

 In this week's episode of the Modern Trumpet Podcast, we sit down with Glen Marhevka of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy to hear about his career and how he got started with one of the most well know swing bands in history. 

 Craig Taylor is a trumpet freelancer and contractor in the Washington DC area. He is the trumpet player and contractor for the National Theater as well as Ford's Theater. He studied at East Carolina University with Vince dimartino before Working full-time for Disney World and a show called blast. after years of touring with them, he found his way to New York and played on Broadway for a time before landing in the Washington DC area.In this week's episode, we hear about his experience with family, how he's risen the ranks, and his approach to balancing life as a freelancing musician

 In today's short story of modern Trumpeter podcast, Mitch Cooper talks about his journey of getting into the Disneyland band from the All-American College band.  Follow us on social media.IG: https://www.instagram.com/moderntrumpeter/Click here to get a FREE PDF of the top 100 songs you will get asked to play in any corporate/wedding band. moderntrumpeter.comLink to our online store: https://mountaintop-music.myspreadshop.com/Visit moderntrumpeter.com to preorder the book and get updates! 

Jerry Hey is one of the most iconic horn arrangers and trumpet players of our day. Emerging from the Hollywood studio scene of the 1980s, Jerry revolutionized the sound of pop music through his innovative horn arrangements and performances. This week we hear how he got going, his experiences with Quincy Jones, and how he has made a name and career for himself over the last 40 years.

In this short story of the Modern Trumpeter, Craig Taylor talks about why he quit the trumpet and his return to playing after a couple of years. 

In today's episode of the Modern Trumpeter, we learn more from Louis Dowdeswell and his journey as a musician, content creator, and family man. Louis Dowdeswell is an internationally acclaimed trumpeter, bandleader, and educator whose career spans recording studios, concert halls, television, and some of the world’s most iconic stages. Known for his powerful lead trumpet playing, versatility across genres, and innovative approach to music education, Louis has become one of the defining voices of the trumpet in his generation.

Kellin Hanas is an up and coming star in the trumpet world. We discuss her social media presence and growth, her background in jazz, music education and much more. Learn more about Kellin and her career as a trumpet player, and her plans for the future.

 In this week's short story, Brian recounts one of his first major gigs in Spain and the tiger that was a part of the show. 

 In this week's episode of the Modern Trumpeter Podcast, we get to sit down with Mitch Cooper, the Lead Trumpet for the Disneyland Band and Big Band Voodoo Daddy. Mitch tells us about his background and how he ended up getting both of these jobs as a trumpet player. 

Bob Malone has been one of Yamaha's top instrument technicians and designers, with his specialty being in the trumpet. He has designed the Xeno series as well as helped develop horns for Bobby Shew, Wayne Bergeron and many others. In this episode he talks about his journey from freelance work into instrument repair and design. 

 Episode 1 – Brian MacDonald: Life in the Airmen of Note In our very first episode of The Modern Trumpeter Podcast, we sit down with Brian MacDonald, trumpet player with the United States Air Force’s premier jazz ensemble, the Airmen of Note. Brian shares his journey from college trumpet studies to winning a spot in one of the top military jazz bands in the world. We talk about the audition process, what day-to-day life looks like as a professional military musician, and the unique opportunities and challenges that come with serving as both an artist and an airman. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to land a career in a military ensemble—or what the gig really looks like beyond the stage—this conversation offers valuable insights for students, educators, and aspiring professionals alike.