1. Where were you born? Tell us a little about your youth and upbringing.
Born in Carrollton, KY. My dad was a High School Band Director there for 10 years and took a job in Seminole, Florida when I was 6 years old. Dad taught Middle School Band and Music for another 25 years. Mom taught music in schools for about 15 years. Both of my parents taught private lessons at our house from as long as I can remember, and still do.
2. Earliest musical memories?
My dad making me a "trumpet" out of a garden hose, funnel and a trumpet mouthpiece.
3. Your education? Where did you attend college, primary teachers?
University of Miami - Gilbert Johnson.
4. Why did you choose your instrument?
My dad played all of the instruments, but his main instrument was the trumpet.
5. When did you know you wanted to be a professional musician?
Just before the start of my senior year in high school.
6. Who were/are your most important musical influences?
My parents, Tom Macklin (high school trumpet teacher), Gil Johnson (UM) and Whit Sidmer (UM).
7.Most inspiring composers?
J. S. Bach, Gustav Mahler.
8. What would you be if not a musician?
Maybe a carpenter.
9. Your favorite thing about playing in the ACO?
Playing great music with great musicians.
10. With what other ensembles do you perform/where do you teach?
I do a lot of commercial playing as well as classical. I have been able to record and/or play with many artists including Frank Sinatra, Prince, Busta Rhymes, Madonna and Lynard Skynard. Also play with the Boca Symphonia and the Miami Bach Society. I teach trumpet at Florida International University.
11. What is your CD player right now?
The best of .38 Speical.
12. What do you like to do outside of work/hobby/pastime(s)?
Hanging out with my family. I have 2 kids, Reed age 10 and Bailey age 9. My wife Jeni is an amazing singer. We all love music and baseball...went to 7 ballparties this summer. We always take a long road trip in the summer.
13. Anything else particularly interesting or enlightening you would like to share?
I have 7 toes on each foot :) just kidding.
