THE CANNONBALL^® FAMILY

CHRIS ANDERSON

"The first time I picked up a silver plated Cannonball 42 I liked it right away. I have always played Bachs and the Cannonball “slotted “ similarly but was more nimble and very consistent an all registers. When I tried the raw brass model I couldn’t quite believe it. I play a shallow mouthpiece with tight backbore and the raw brass widens and darkens my tone. Amazingly, it still has punch and my upper range is kicking easier than ever. For me, with the variety of work I do this horn is a dream come true." ~ Chris Anderson

BIO

Since 1998 Chris Anderson has been the lead trumpet and principal horn arranger for Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. With the Juke Horns he has played with The Allman Brothers, Bruce Springsteen, Little Feat and Jon Bon Jovi . Prior to joining The Jukes Chris toured and recorded for some of the greatest salsa bands in the world including Ray Barretto, Hector Lavoe, Luis “Perico” Ortiz and Celia Cruz. Chris is a founding member (with saxophonist John Isley) of New York Horns. Their initial EP “Tunnel Vision” released in 2000 was downloaded by over 350,000 fans on mp3.com. Their new CD “New York Horns” released in the summer of 2014 has garnered rave reviews. newyorkhorns.com Among the hundreds or recordings he has made some of his favorites are

SSJ&TAJ - Pills and Ammo and Goin’ To Jukesville.
S’killit - Dig Down and Blue Fever
The New York Rock and Soul Revue - Live At The Beacon
Ray Barretto - Todo Se Va Poder
LaBamba Big Band - Grapefruit Moon(the songs of Tom Waits)
The Allman Brothers 40th Anniversary - Play all night: Live at The Beacon Theater

Other touring credits include Donald Fagen and The New York Rock and Soul Revue, Michael Bolton, Ben E. King, Illinois Jacquet Big Band (lead trumpet), and Blood Sweat and Tears. Chris can also be seen with The NYC Hit Squad and Mark Rivera. He is a graduate of Manhattan School of Music. ×

CARLOS ABADIE

BIO

Grammy nominated producer and trumpeter Carlos Abadie, hails from Miami, Florida where his first professional musical endeavors were with Melton Mustafa and the great Ira Sullivan. Mr. Abadie decided to move to New York City in 1993 and quickly became entrenched in the New York music scene starting out with Jason Linder's Big Band.. Now almost 30 years later, Mr. Abadie has had the distinct honor of playing with Junior Mance, Louis Hayes, Illinois Jacquet, Ocean Pope, Jimmy Heath, Clark Terry, Ray Santos and his Orchestra, Bobby Sanabria, Andy Gonzalez and many more..

Since 2007, Mr. Abadie has been leading his own Jazz quintet. And with his quintet he has played all of the major venues in New York and the tri-state area. Mr. Abadie started wearing the hat of producer in 2013, when he was asked by legendary bassist Andy Gonzalez to be part of Mister Gonzalez’s album entitled Entre Colegas. Entre Colegas was nominated for a Grammy in 2016, Mr. Abadie was also a featured soloist on this album.

Carlos Abadie is a constant musical presence and is revered by his colleagues on the New York jazz scene. Mr. Abadie continues to be a source inspiration to the musical community in NYCand to younger musicians just coming on to the scene. ×

DREW ANDERSON

“I love my 789RL. It’s one of the most beautiful sounding, best looking, versatile and durable horns I’ve ever played. With the 789RL, my upper range slots with little to no effort. It also allows my sound to flow smoothly and freely through each register of the horn.” ~ Drew Anderson

BIO

Drew Anderson, is a NYC based Jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader. He has performed with historic Jazz artists - the late Randy Weston, Candido de Guerra Camero, Reggie Workman, and Charles Tolliver - as well as with vanguard contemporaries like Ulysses owens Jr., Jerome Jennings, Christopher McBride, Omar Hakim, and Endea Owens. He has performed at The Jazz Standard, Small’s, Minton’s, NJPAC,the National Jazz Museum of Harlem, and at internationally-celebrated venues like Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola in New York and Sculler’s in Boston. Drew is a versatile musician, appearing with the artist Solange - at the Guggenheim Museum, Panorama Festival, AfroPunk, Dave Chappelle’s Radio City Music Live, and Jay-Z’s Made in America Festival - as well at the Kennedy Center with Sun Ra’s Arkestra.

It all began for Drew when he was given a trumpet at the age of 6. In 2008 his father, Ashby Anderson, Jazz pianist, composer, and educator founded the Richmond Youth Jazz Guild. This music education program catapulted Anderson’s improvisational skills and love of Jazz. At 12, Drew was riffing alongside Trombone Shorty and learning from the late Frank Foster. By 14, he had an audience of Jazz giants like Quincy Jones and Wynton Marsalis. Drew’s apprenticeship in Jazz continued as he earned coveted scholarships to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston for three consecutive summers. While attending these summer intensives, he developed under Jazz musicians like Terri Lyne Carrington, Phil Wilson, and Tiger Okoshi. From 2012 to 2018, Anderson received private instruction from professional Jazz trumpet players: Wynton Marsalis, Cecil Bridgewater, Jimmy Owens, Marcus Printup, and Charles Tollivar. Additionally, he received two years of classical lessons from trumpeter, Rodney Marsalis at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia.

Drew is a graduate of The New School of Jazz and Contemporary Music with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. He earned his degree through a full-tuition scholarship. Anderson has experience leading his own ensemble, The Newtet. Under his leadership the Newtet has performed regularly in NYC, including a weekly Jam Session at the Sound Bite Restaurant, Times Square Music Festival, Union Square Lunch Concert Series, and Chelsea Music Hall - with the Soul in the Horn music movement.

Visit Drew Anderson's official Website. ×

RAUL AGRAZ

"Finally this is the trumpet that I was looking for. A big and soft sound at the same time. I don't need to change trumpets for a different style of music or a different trumpet for a recording session, Cannonball is the most versatile trumpet in the market." ~ Raul Agraz

BIO

Throughout his career Raul Agraz has performed lead and solo trumpet in a variety of styles. He has recorded thousands of soundtracks, jingles,and cds, and recently performed on the first national tour of Billy Joel and Twyla Tharpe's Tony Award winning Broadway show "Movin' Out".

Other artists with whom he has performed include Tito Puente, Eddie Palmieri, Mingus Big Band, Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Jennifer Lopez, Mark Antony, Paquito D'Rivera, Arturo Sandoval, Celia Cruz, Herb Alpert, Santana, Olga Tanon, Frankie Negron, Natalie Cole, and Harry Connick Jr. He has been featured on Grammy, Latin Grammy, and Billboard Award winning recordings with Celia Cruz, the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, and Bacilos. He has been heard on popular TV shows including Saturday Night Live, the Billboard Awards, and Good Morning America, and has also performed extensively on Broadway in "The Full Monty", "Oklahoma", "Movin' Out" and "The Mambo Kings".

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D.J. BARRACLOUGH

"In my work with the world reknown Dallas Brass ensemble the past six years I have had the pleasure of performing what would be considered by most an extremely demanding and versitile show. During this time I have been able to do the ultimate "field test" with various trumpets and mouthpieces as ANY improvement in my ability to relax and make music consistently on stage is most worthwhile. Enter the Cannonball 725 Stone Series trumpet. My job has been delightfully easier since its introduction last season. These trumpets really deliver where it counts most- in tone, pitch and blend. In classical mode I can go from pianissimo to fortississimo without losing focus then turn around and scream like a banshee in the next tune then execute a technical cornet solo moments later with ease. I noticed immediately that these trumepts did not blow the same as most other pro models out there and that the tone was just prettier in every way. I have taken my game to the next level thanks to Cannonball!" ~ D.J. Barraclough

Trumpet Player with the Dallas Brass

BIO

Having begun his musical studies on the trombone and continuing with it through high school, D.J. didn't actually begin the trumpet until his 3rd year in college.

Originally from southern Utah, he attended Dixie State College in St. George. While attending DSC, he served as principal trumpet in the Utah Intercollegiate Band three consecutive years. His solo honors include first prize in the Intercollegiate Solo Competition, held in Denver, CO. This prize earned him a solo performance in Denver with the Arapahoe Philharmonic.

Professionally, D.J. has performed with such organizations as the Utah Symphony, the Lex De Azevedo Orchestra, and the Lawrence Welk Orchestra.

When not performing, D.J. enjoys working as a brass clinician, and through the use of the Smart Music Studio software by Coda Music Technologies, he helps young students learn to make practice more effective and fun. D.J. is also an accomplished instrument repair technician. His other interests include hiking, camping, and various forms of meditation. D.J. presently lives in southern Utah with his wife, Kristine, and their six children.

Visit the Dallas Brass official Website. ×

RAYSE BIGGS

"I need a horn that can take a lot of abuse - from triple C to low F# - and can still maintain a full sound in the middle ranges. My Cannonball 789 RL Mad Meg Unfinished Trumpet takes it all. I love it!" ~ Rayse Biggs

BIO

Rayse Biggs is gifted with a unique quality and sound blended from musical greats and topped off with his own style. His musical career began on the family piano in the living room mimicking his older brother, Travis Biggs, and performing musical skits during family gatherings. His formal training began in the Detroit Public Schools playing the French horn, drums, string bass and tuba. After much begging in music class, he was finally allowed to play the trumpet in high school. He continued his formal training majoring in music at Oakland University.

Rayse, however had other ideas. By this time he had perfected his stage presence and was swinging in the Motown Review performing with Smokey Robinson and The Dramatics to name a few. He had learned jazz, and rhythm and blues styles from some of the best. Marcus Belgrave had taken him under his wing, as well as Herbie Hancock, Freddie Hubbard and Donald Byrd. When not performing with them, Rayse was performing with his own band and he continues to do so. He also performed with such legends as Dizzie Gillespie and B.B. King. More recently he has performed and recorded with Fred Hammond, Alexander Zonjic, Kidd Rock an Kem. Even though Rayse has been busy performing, he has found time to nurture and tutor others who continue to excel musically.

Developing his musical writing and recording skills was honed with the help of Roy Brooks, Donald Walden. All of the songs on For the Love of It were written by Rayse. Creating music is a passion for him.

He is not only talented musically but has acted in Collision Course, Scrooge in the Hood and given an award winning performance in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom.

Rayse’s signature is to play the Flugle horn and trumpet simultaneously. Amazing what one man can do!

Visit Rayse Biggs's official Website. ×

RICK BRAUN

BIO

Rick Braun has enjoyed a career longevity that is rare in this business. He has crafted his own distinctive sound and become a staple on contemporary jazz radio. He has produced No. 1 hits for David Benoit, Marc Antoine, and former Rod Stewart band sidekick, Jeff Golub. Braun achieved collaborative success on massive hits with Boney James, as a member of RnR with saxophonist Richard Elliot, and with BWB, a powerhouse trio completed by Grammy® winners Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown. He has made a mark staying true to his own musical voice and eclectic influences that have allowed him to collaborate across genres with some of the biggest names in music, including Tina Turner, Tom Petty, Sade, Natalie Cole and REO Speedwagon.

Visit Rick Braun's official Website. ×

RONNIE BUTTACAVOLI

"The first time I played one of the Cannonball trumpets was for about 15 minutes during a Manhattan Theater Club benefit last year. One year later I borrowed a friend's Cannonball trumpet for 2 days and that was it. Decision made !!! How and where can I get one of these trumpets? After playing several of Cannonball's trumpets, I chose the Stone Series, 725 Bb, Black Nickel Plated. Playing lead in a big band, sitting in the trumpet section of a Broadway show, doing a jingle, pumping out some funk, r and b horn section stuff, or just playing a ballad on a record date, the horn takes it all in stride. This trumpet has a great core sound, just the right amout of sizzle in the upper register as well as ease of playing there, responsive valves and an even, consistent blow from bottom to top. Also, the fit and finish are impeccable. If you're looking for a trumpet that gets "all" of it done, Cannonball is the one to have." ~ Ronnie Buttacavoli

BIO

Raised in New York and rooted in classical music and jazz, Ronnie Buttacavoli studied trumpet with Carmine Caruso and Murray Karpilovsky, principal trumpet with the NY Met, before venturing to France where, from 1970-1980, he anchored the exceptional funk/fusion band, Bobby Boyd and the Soul Congress, later called Ice on Fantasy-Prestige.

For the past 18 years, Ronnie has led the horn section of Etta James' criticallyacclaimed "Roots Band" as well as being a featured solist on her Grammy winning CD Mystery Lady. Steely Dan, Bozz Scaggs, Liza Minnelli, Fountains of Wayne, America, Dave Brubek ("Young Lions and Old Tigers") and Masayoshi Yamazaki ("Transition") are only a few of the artists Ronnie has worked with.

"In Mystery Lady and Time After Time," writes David Ritz, Etta James' biographer, Ronnie Buttacavoli provides the perfect counterpoint to Etta. He augments her voice with his own sensitivity and delicate approach to melody."

"Ronnie," says Etta James herself, "always amazes me. One minute he's hitting those horn punches like Mike Tyson, and the next minute he's playing soft and romantic like early Miles. Fact is, Ronnie plays as beautifully as anyone since the passing of Miles." "Miles, says Buttacavoli, along with Chet Baker, Freddie Hubbard, Blue Mitchell,Clifford Brown and all the great trumpeters, were each compelling story tellers with distinct voices. Whether it's blues or rhythm and blues or straight-ahead jazz, the voice is what counts. The voice is everything."

Discography

Performances with Artists:

Etta James and the Roots Band (18 yrs),Fountains of Wayne,Liza Minnelli, Steely Dan, NY Rock and Soul Revue w/Michael McDonald, Bozz Scaggs, Phoebe Snow and Chuck Jackson,BozzScaggs(world tour) Aretha Franklin,TheFourTops, The Temptations,Wilson Pickett, Gloria Gaynor, Jay Black and the Americans,Glenn Miller Orchestra (featured soloist) Toshiko Akioshi/Lew Tabakin Big Band.

Commercials:

Bacardi "Tattoo" Coke "Nascar-Sexy" Chase Bank "Aragon" General Motors "Drive By" AT&T "True Heroes"

Broadway Shows:

In The Heights,Young Frankenstein,ChorusLine,Curtains,Tarzan,Blly Joel's Movin' Out,Hair Spray, Little Shop of Horrors, Boy from Oz, La Cage aux Folles, Spamalot, Gypsy, City of Angeles,Sweet Charity, Damn Yankees (with Jerry Lewis), Starlite Express, Kiss of the Spiderwoman, How to Succeed in Business.

Off Broadway:

Little Me (with Martin Short and Faith Prince),Romance in Hard Times by Bill Finn w/Lillias White,Legends in Concert (Las Vegas Production by John Stuart). Selected Discography:

Etta James "Mystery Lady" (Grammy Award) "All The Way" RCAVictor Fountains of Wayne "Welcome Interstate Managers" "Traffic and Weather" America "Here and Now" Masayoshi Yamazaki "Transition" Polydor Liza Minnelli "Liza’s Back" J-Records Ed Palermo Big Band "Take Your Clothes off When You Dance" (music of Frank Zappa ) Dave Brubek "Young Lions and Old Tigers" Jeannie Bryson "Some Cats Know" Sound Tracks:

"Be Kind, Re-Wind" New Line Cinema w/Jack Black ,Danny Glover "The Deep End" Fox Searchlight Pictures, music by Peter Naschel "Bee Season" (with Richard Gere) FoxFilms, music by Peter Naschel "Killing Zoe" dir.by Roger Avery, music by tomandandy, Milan Entertainment. ×

WINSTON BYRD

BIO

Winston Byrd was initially bitten by the 'jazz bug' as a seventh grader when he heard Maynard Ferguson's playing of 'Give It One.' Soon after, he witnessed Dizzy Gillespie and Jon Faddis trading solos on 'Groovin High' on a 1986 Grammy Awards telecast. A 1991 graduate of Gateway Regional High School in southern New Jersey, Mr. Byrd has had a career more like his forbears than his contemporaries; like jazz musicians of the mid-20th century, he developed his chops and style on the road in bands big and small, rather than in the classroom. Planning to go New York University to study Clinical Psychology, he detoured to go on the road (initially with the Stylistics), and never returned to college.

Enamored of high note playing, he worked at being able to articulate in the 'stratosphere', and then the young trumpeter became a multi-talented improviser in swing, hard-bop, bebop, funk, smooth jazz as well being versed in studies of classical trumpet. He earned gigs as a lead trumpeter in big bands including those of Illinois Jacquet, David Murray, Slide Hampton, Louie Bellson and Oliver Lake, as well as the Count Basie Orchestra, Duke Ellington Orchestra and Blood, Sweat and Tears. Trumpeter Jon Faddis became an early role model and mentor, and Mr. Byrd has played in the trumpet section of the Faddis-led 'Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band'.

Another influence and current mentor is Arturo Sandoval. Winston has also performed, recorded, and/or toured with a myriad of big name jazz and pop artists and orchestras including The Chi-Lites, Patti Austin, The Dells, The Grateful Dead, Lionel Hampton, Michael Bolton, Illinois Jacquet Big Band, Roy Hargrove Big Band, Pieces Of A Dream, Claudio Roditi, David Murray, Oliver Lake Big Band, Larry Coryell, Aretha Franklin, Charles Tolliver Big Band, The Stylistics, Natalie Cole, Arturo Sandoval, The Village Vanguard Orchestra, Mary Wilson (of the Supremes), Chucho Valdes, Louie Bellson, T.S. Monk, David 'Fathead' Newman, Chaka Khan, Clark Terry (who suprise-guested with Winston on his All-Star 31st birthday concert!), James Moody, The Dramatics, Shirley Horn, Paquito d' Rivera, Lucky Peterson, Bernard Purdie, Diane Schuur, Don Rickles, Usher, Abbey Lincoln and the Charles Mingus Big Band among others!

For the last three years, Mr. Byrd, who leads his own band (one in New York, one in Los Angeles) has just recorded his first CD, 'Soul Searchin', which is currently available in stores and on the internet at www.winstonbyrd.com and his compositions can be heard here and on T.S. Monk's latest release, 'Higher Ground' in which Mr. Byrd is a former member of the T.S. Monk Band. Since moving to Los Angeles (as well as keeping a base in New York City as well), Winston has been keeping busy with even MANY more artists on the West Coast as well such as the Gerald Wilson Orchestra, the Frank Capp Juggernaut, the Buddy Collette Big Band, Steve March Torme, Eric Benet, The Don Ellis Reunion Big Band, Craig Robinson (of the NBC hit show, The Office), Ernie Andrews and also performing on the L.A. based award shows such as the Grammys & the B.E.T. awards!!! Along with these many attributes, Mr. Byrd has organized his Los Angeles based Jazz Orchestra which has been leaving audiences speechless since being formed just a year ago with some of L.A.'s finest and hottest players!!!

Visit Winston Byrd's official Website. ×

DR. STEVEN CUNNINGHAM

BIO

A gifted composer/arranger as well as a formidable trumpeter and improviser, Steven has had the opportunity to work with Josh Groban, El DeBarge, Jah Works, Maestro J, Tinnarose, Tongue in Cheek Jazz Band, Orchester Prazevica, Black Masala, The KG Experience, Brass of the Potomac, Joye B. Moore, The Brotherhood, The Peacherine Ragtime Orchestra, The Flavor Project and Brunswick. He has performed in high-profile venues such as Carnegie Hall, DAR Constitution Hall, The Kennedy Center, Washington National Cathedral, The Tower Theater, The National Orchestral Institute, Musikfest, New York Gypsy Festival, International Trumpet Guild Conference, National Trumpet Competition, American Bandmasters Association Convention, and The Richmond Jazz Festival. He performed as lead trumpet for the 2014 Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Jazz Orchestra, third trumpet in 2015, and 2nd trumpet in 2016.

Steven received his Bachelor of Music degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2011, studying with Prof. Rex Richardson. He merited his Master of Music degree in 2014 and his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in 2017 from the University of Maryland, College Park. Steven is an Adjunct Instructor of Music at VCU, where he teaches Jazz Orchestra II.

Quote -I have played the Cannonball 789RL since I was in high school. I love that trumpet and will never sell it. I am currently playing the Cannonball 42-S. These instruments are versatile and allow me to adapt to any performance scenario from classical, jazz, funk, latin and hip-hop.

Visit Dr. Cunningham's official Website. ×

JACOB EDGAR

Host of Music Voyager

BIO

Jacob Edgar is an Ethnomusicologist, world music tastemaker, street food fanatic and a global explorer with an insatiable curiosity for the diverse ways in which people express themselves through music. His adventures have taken him to hundreds of the world's greatest international music festivals, and performance venues in search of exceptional musical talents. Since 1998, Edgar has been the main music researcher for the acclaimed world music compilations label Putumayo World Music, contributing songs and liner notes to over 100 Putumayo collections that combined have sold over ten million copies. In 2006, Edgar founded the record label Cumbancha, which was awarded the Top Label Award at WOMEX (the World Music Expo). Cumbancha artists include Malian star Habib Koité, Israel's cross-cultural mavericks The Idan Raichel Project and the late Garifuna music advocate Andy Palacio.

Visit Music Voyager's official Website. ×

EARL GARDNER

"I never thought I would find a medium-large bore trumpet that I enjoy this much! When I tried the Cannonball 789 RL, I was pleasantly surprised by the openness and consistency of the horn through all the registers. It has more room than I expected and it gets a big, full sound. I play the Cannonball on Saturday Night Live and on Broadway and, bottom line, it’s just fun to play!" ~ Earl Gardner

BIO

Earl Gardner is a native New Yorker and a graduate of Music and Art High School. He began his professional career in Philadelphia where he attended Temple University. He moved back to New York in 1976 to play lead trumpet in the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra where he remained for 29 years and gained a reputation among colleagues and critics alike as one of the jazz world's premier lead trumpeters. He has been a member of many of the world's most notable big bands including the McCoy Tyner Big Band, Charlie Haden Liberation Orchestra, Carla Bley Big Band, Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, Dizzy Gillespie Big Band, and the Mingus Big Band. He has performed extensively throughout the world with these bands and has been featured on many of their Grammy Award-winning recordings. Earl was also the subject of a feature article in Down Beat magazine entitled "Lead Trumpet Supreme."

Earl is a multifaceted artist with ties to the jazz and commercial recording fields. He has appeared with countless artists including Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, Aerosmith, Eric Clapton, Mariah Carey, Katy Perry, Queen Latifah, Sting, Aretha Franklin, Harry Connick, Jr., Paul Simon, Luther Vandross, Sarah Vaughn and Nancy Wilson on recordings as well as in live performances at Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, The Kennedy Center, Avery Fisher Hall and the Hollywood Bowl.

Earl has been a member of the Saturday Night Live Band since 1985. Additional television highlights include performances on the Grammy Awards, Tony Awards, Emmy Awards, The Mark Twain Prize at The Kennedy Center, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, Late Show with David Lettterman, the Today Show, and Good Morning America.

Earl has also been a member of the orchestra for numerous Broadway shows including Annie, Anything Goes, Come Fly Away, La Cage Aux Folles, The Boy From Oz, Sideshow, Play On!, Saturday Night Fever, and Me and My Girl. ×

RUSSELL GUNN

BIO

Russell Gunn is a Two-Time Grammy Nominee for best contemporary jazz album. Ethnomusicology Vol 1and2. He is also the featured soloist on the Pulitzer Prize winning Jazz - Oratorio by Wynton Marsalis “Blood on the Fields”

Born in Chicago but moving to East St. Louis when he was 10, Gunn first heard jazz classics on vinyl that belonged to his grandmother’s boyfriend, a Chicago radio show host. He credits saxophonist Ron Carter, his public high school band director, with having provided him and other students with “the tools for us to go try to learn on our own, and a place for us to be in healthy competition,” and claims his “real education” began with on-the-job training he got from older players.

Gunn proved himself stouthearted and eager for professional engagement at 18, when he quit college during his freshman year to tour with r&b singer Johnny Taylor. Two years later, Gunn was called to New York City to work with Oliver Lake and soon after record Blood On The Fields with Wynton Marsalis. Since his recording debut, 1995’s Young Gunn, he’s released 16 albums as a leader, including the Grammy-nominated Ethnomusicology, Vol. 3, melding hip-hop rhythms, bits of spoken word, turntablism, effects, keyboards and drum programming with brash brass playing, jazz structures and a cohort of collaborators who regard the music’s legacy as essential but not an end in itself.

Gunn is a beautiful trumpeter, a massively talented producer, conductor, arranger and talent scout. He is currently the director of Russell Gunn and the Royal Krunk Orkestra, and he also tours with the Marcus Miller Band.

Visit Royal Krunk Orkestra's official Website. ×

STEFEN CHRISTIAN HINKLE

"Cannonball Music represents family. My first impression of the company was that of a sincere and heartfelt product that still embodies the American Dream. The quality of craftsmanship and the ever shifting concept of the product is an endless pursuit of perfection, that only acknowledgement to an ever pursuing musician that never rests to strive for perfection as well. I look forward to embracing the Cannonball family and working diligently representing the Cannonball name to the highest standard possible." ~ Stefen Christian Hinkle

BIO

Stefen Christian Hinkle is a nationally spotlighted musician facilitating 20+ years performance experience throughout the US and internationally including Cuba for the raising of the American flag at the US Embassy to end the Embargo Act of 1960 with an audience of billions viewing worldwide. He also performed in Panama for the opening of the 3rd Lock of the Panama Canal and 3 Military International tattoos in Australia and Norway. He was one of five instrumentalists in the Capitol Rotunda for the viewing of George Bush Sr. in State. He had the privilege to play Taps at the Tombs of the Unknown Soldier in the military funerals in Arlington National Cemetery and with The U.S. Army Brass Quintet and The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band.Prior to military Stefen performed in the Greensboro, Winston Salem and Asheville Symphonies. Stefen has played with Mannheim Steamroller, Rush, Allison Krause, Aretha Franklin, Vince Gil, Roger Daugherty as well as The National Symphony with James Galway and as a guest soloist. Stefen Christian Hinkle has enjoyed an illustrious career performing throughout the nation while entertaining millions. ×

TRACY D. HOOKER

Grammy Winner

BIO

Tracy D. Hooker is a Grammy Award winning musician and author of, "Autobiography Of An Unknown Jazz Trumpeter" who resides in the South Puget Sound area of Olympia, Wa. He currently serves as Band Director at the Nova School for highly capable students and Director of the Olympia Jazz Senators. Mr. Hooker is a graduate of Regents College (SUNY) and a 22 year veteran of the United States Navy Music Program. In addition to having performed with many notable touring bands such as the O'Jays, Temptations, Debbie Boone, to name a few, Tracy regularly performs with the Keith Henson Octet, Freddy Pink (70's cover band), Life Center Church Orchestra, Purple Pheonix Orchestra and his own quarter, the Hook Me Up Band. Although he maintains a busy performance schedule, Mr. Hooker conducts an in-home Trumpet Studio working with tomorrow's fine instrumentalist. Tracy is a Trumpet Artist for the Cannonball Music Company along with an endorser of Marcinkiewicz mouthpieces.

Mr. Hooker's book is available through Amazon. Release date September 19th 2016.

Visit Tracy D. Hooker's official Website for his band "Hook Me up". ×

GREG HOPKINS

"I immediately fell in love with the beautiful sound of the retro-lacquer Cannonball trumpet--it's big, warm, and luxurious." ~ Greg Hopkins

Professor of Music, Berklee College of Music

BIO

Performer, composer, and arranger Greg Hopkins first picked up the trumpet as a boy in Detroit, and to this day it would be hard to spot him without his horn. Hopkins plays even when caught in traffic on commute to Berklee College of Music, where he's been teaching since 1974 - the year the London Times called him "a real find" for the Buddy Rich Orchestra.

That symbiosis of man and musical instrument is evident in Hopkins' solo performances by which he has served the orchestras of Louis Bellson, Billy Maxted, Rich, and Herb Pomeroy, as well as his own small ensembles and big bands. Hopkins began his professional career in 1965, freelancing in the Detroit area for such acts as the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and Gladys Knight until 1969, when he graduated Michigan State.

From 1969 to 1974 he toured nationally and internationally, appearing at the Newport, Monterey, and other major jazz festivals. Hopkins has also performed with Dizzy Gillespie, Ella fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, the Supremes, Burt Bacharach, Nancy Wilson, Lou Rawls, Mitzi Gaynor, Michel Legrand, Johnny Mathis, Shirley Maclame, Marvin Hamlisch, and Lena Home, as well as the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Boston Pops, and the Boston Brass Ensemble.

He recorded as soloist and arranger the "Roar of '74" and "Stick It" with the Buddy Rich Orchestra, "Afrodisia" with Lonnie Smith, "Pramlatta's Hips" with Herb Pomeroy (Shiah). "Together" with Maggie Scott (MM and R), "Orange Then Blue" with George Adams (GM Recordings), "Jumpin' in the Future" with Gunther Schuller (GM), "Dreams Come True" with Suzanne Dean (NOVA), and numerous others.

His theater work includes 42nd Street, Dancin', Some Like It Hot, Annie, Tommy Tune Tonight, Catskills on Broadway, West Side Story, Porgy and Bess, My Fair Lady with Rex Harrison, The King and I with Yul Brynner, Into the Woods, Ragtime, and A Chorus Line.

His own 16-Piece Jazz Orchestra CD, "Okavongo", is out on the Summit label, as is his quintet Cd, "Quintology", featuring Bill Pierce, Mick Goodrick, and Gary Chaffee. Just released this spring was the trio Cd with Tim Ray's chamber jazz group "Tre Corda", featuring Tim on piano, and Eugene Friesen on cello. Greg is also featured on the new grammy winning jazz cd by composer Joel Pallson and his Septet, on the Icelandic label. Most recently greg was trumpet soloist with the Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra on Arthur Welwoods composition for jazz trumpet and orchestr, on Albany Records. "Wind, Sky, and Clouds".

Mr. Hopkins busy teaching and performing schedule takes him all over the world doing concerts, festivals, jazz club dates, and clinics. Recently he has visited Italy, Iceland, the Czech Republic, Macedonia, Alaska, Argentina, and many others.

A Professor of Jazz Composition at Berklee College of Music, Greg has developed and teaches several courses in composition and also directs the Berklee Concert Jazz Orchestra, one of the most prestigious perfofming ensembleat the school.

He has published arrangements and compositions with Kendor, Studio P.R., and Tom Crown Brass Publications. Hopkins continues to write and orchestrate, and is Professor of Jazz Composition at Berklee where the debut of his "Inner Voyage" for Herb Pomeroy's tribute shook the Performance Center not long ago, with John Abercrombie and Abe Laboriel, Sr. soloing.

Hopkins works often with his 16 Piece Jazz Orchestra, and also performs regularly with his quintet, and Tim Ray's trio.

Visit Greg Hopkins's official Website. ×

KRIS JOHNSON

BIO

Kris Johnson is an award-winning jazz trumpeter, composer, and educator. He has appeared on an impressive list of albums including two Grammy-nominated releases: Tony Bennett’s “A Swingin’ Christmas” and Karen Clark Sheard’s “All In One”. Kris is a trumpeter and arranger with the Count Basie Orchestra. In 2013 he was featured in the standup-comedy film “Make Me Wanna Holla” starring Sinbad.

Currently, Kris Johnson is the Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Utah. Kris received his master’s (2007) and bachelor’s (2005) degrees in Jazz Studies from Michigan State University. In 2012, Kris received an ASCAP Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composers award and was selected as one of 25 Detroit performing and literary artists to receive a Kresge Artist Fellowship.

Mr. Johnson has performed at some of the world’s most prestigious jazz venues including the Apollo Theater, the Blue Note Jazz Club (US and Japan), Sydney Opera House, Blues Alley, and the Hollywood Bowl. He has also had the opportunity to perform with many jazz greats including Tony Bennett, Patti Austin, Wess Anderson, Wycliffe Gordon, Jon Hendricks, Monty Alexander, Christian McBride, Jamie Cullum, and many others. He has recorded on three albums with the Count Basie Orchestra including a 2015 Christmas album with Concord Records that features his arrangement of “Let It Snow” with soloist Ellis Marsalis.

Drawing from jazz, classical, hip-hop, and neo-soul, Kris’s writing creates diverse textures that represent his unique musical identity. He has composed several large-scale works for jazz and orchestral ensembles including Jim Crow’s Tears (musical for 6 ensemble members and a jazz orchestra), A Journey Through a Dream (jazz ensemble and string quartet commissioned by the Arts League of Michigan), and Odd Expressions (jazz ensemble and symphony orchestra commissioned by Troy High School). His arrangements have been performed and/or recorded by the Count Basie Orchestra, Karen Clark Sheard, Yolanda Adams, the Clark Sisters, Farmington Community Band, the Motor City Brass Band, Detroit Symphony’s Civic Jazz Ensembles, and many others. He is also the exclusive copyist for composer and trombonist, Wycliffe Gordon.

Johnson has a keen sensitivity to the nuances of film as is evident in his award-winning film scores for various webseries, documentaries, short films, and a feature film. He received an Outstanding Score award for his work on the comedic web series The PuNanny Diaries at the 2011 LA Webfest.

Kris was a full time faculty member at The Ohio State University from 2012 – 2015 serving as a jazz lecturer. He is also the former director of Detroit Symphony’s Civic Jazz Orchestra where he lead the most talented students in Metro Detroit. Johnson has also served as a Jazz Artist in Residence at Troy High School, Southfield-Lathrup High School, Eaton Rapids High School, and is the composer and co-creator of The Learning Express, a series of workshops that use hip-hop and jazz to teach elementary students about science, reading, and math.

Visit Kris Johnson's official Website. ×

PHILIP LASSITER

"My cannonball trumpet is the best horn I've ever played." ~ Philip Lassiter

BIO

Philip Lassiter’s contribution and relevance to the music industry is as diverse and celebrated as he is. The highlights of his impressive career includes production and arranging work for six GRAMMY winning projects with Fred Hammond and Kirk Franklin in addition to working as section-leader, arranger and trumpeter for Prince. Lassiter is known as a sought-after songwriter and jazz musician as well as the musical genius behind the funk group Philthy. This multi-instrumental vocalist brings a broad array of performance ability and genre knowledge to the table.

Two decades of gospel, soul, R&B, funk, jazz and salsa sounds have served as a combined muse for Lassiter. Eight years in Dallas, TX brought these inspirations to life, and all the while under the wing of some of the most talented musicians and producers in the world. Bernard Wright, Bobby Sparks, Keith Anderson and many others opened new musical doors and further expanded his notoriety in the gospel and funk industry. As an arranger with multi-platinum artists including Prince, Fantasia, Kelly Rowland, Roberta Flack, Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, Al Jarreau, Anthony Hamilton, Frankie Beverly, Ledisi, Regina Belle, Donald Lawrence and hundreds of others, Lassiter scooped four GRAMMY Awards and gained due respect as one of the premier horn section arrangers in the business.

Several years in Nashville further diversified Lassiter’s musical portfolio. While there, he worked with the legendary producer Tommy Sims, performed and arranged the music of former Columbia Records country artist Shelly Fairchild, performed numerous awardsshows in town including the Dove Awards, The Stellars, and performed with My Morning Jacket at Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. While in Nashville, Lassiter also formed his funk group Philthy. The talent Philip gathered for Philthy was representative of his working relationships with the best players and performers in both Nashville and New York. Now based in DC, he currently leads an 11-piece horn section for Prince and tours nationally and internationally for both Prince and the Philthy ensemble.

Visit Philip Lassiter's official Website. ×

Dr. Christian C. McIvor

"In my work, I play a little bit of everything and in many different settings, so I'm often switching back and forth between Bb and C trumpets. The Cannonball 42 Artist Series Bb and C trumpets make this switch entirely seamless, as they play and feel incredibly alike. With an open blow, an incredibly secure but flexible feel, great projection, and a full, round sound that can easily blend in or cut through in any setting, these horns are beautiful and truly a pleasure to play!" ~ Dr. Christian C. McIvor

BIO

Dr. Christian C. McIvor frequently performs as a trumpeter of all styles throughout the Southeast. Based in Raleigh, NC, McIvor is the Adjunct Professor of Trumpet at Campbell University, he serves as the lead trumpet player for the Piedmont Triad Jazz Orchestra and Latin dance band West End Mambo, and he appears often as a soloist and section player with various big bands, horn sections, symphonies, and chamber orchestras. He is also a member of Market Street Brass, a brass quintet that has performed internationally and throughout the United States. An avid composer and arranger, McIvor publishes with C. Alan Publications.

Also a prolific singer/songwriter and worship leader, McIvor serves as the Minister of Worship, Music, and the Arts at Greystone Baptist Church, a Cooperative Baptist Fellowship church in Raleigh. McIvor has held past teaching positions at schools of all levels throughout central North Carolina, including Guilford College, High Point University, Southwest Guilford High School, and The North Carolina Leadership Academy.

McIvor holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the State University of New York at Potsdam, Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in Trumpet Performance (cognate in Jazz Studies) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a Master of Divinity degree from the Wake Forest University School of Divinity.

In his free time, Christian likes to spend time with his wife, two daughters, and son. Originally from eastern Connecticut, he is a diehard Boston sports fan and enjoys the outdoors, running, biking, hiking, and reading.

Visit Dr. Christian C. McIvor's official Website. ×

TREVOR NEUMANN

"Throughout my career I rarely have changed equipment or been swayed by the 'newest thing'. Cannonball Trumpets have changed my mind. They are wonderfully consistent in sound, feel and intonation. I am amazed how great the sound is from the lower register to the high. The intonation and slotting of the high register is superb. I feel comfortable on these horns whether I'm playing lead in a session or in a classical chamber group." ~ Trevor Neumann

Broadway Musical "In the Heights"
Broadway Revival "West Side Story"

BIO

Over the years Trevor Neumann has performed and recorded with many artists that span a variety of styles. Some of these artists he has played Lead or Solo Trumpet for include Panic at the Disco, Bette Midler, Queen Latifah , Carlos Santana, Fountains of Wayne, Barry Manilow, Paul Anka, and Marcel Khaliffe.

He also has recorded theme songs, jingles, shows and/or soundtracks for NBC, FOX, Saturday Night Live, Walt Disney, and Sprint among others.

Some of the Broadway shows he has performed with are In The Heights, A Chorus Line, The Wedding Singer, La Cage Aux Folles, The Boy From OZ (Starring Hugh Jackman), Movin’ Out, Gypsy, Tours: Wicked, The Producers, Chicago, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Copacabana, and Peter Pan.

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KIM JUNG O

BIO

Baekseok University majoring in Practical Music
Kyunghee Cyber University majoring in Practical Music
Joshua Sound's first album released
Joshua Jazz Band Leader and Trumpeter
Trumpet Life Ensemble Leader
KBS Love Request Support Session
KBS' 100-day miracle performance.
Lecture at the Practical Music Academy of Chongshin University
Lecture at Anyang Arts High School
Seoul Jazz Festival 2012

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YUSUKE ORITA

"I like the sound and balance of Cannonball. I like the playability and rich, fat sound. I feel good when I play with a Jazz combo and when I play a solo. And... Cannonball looks good!" ~ Yusuke Orita

BIO

Born as a son of a trumpet player father and composer mother. In college, studied classical music and jazz. After collage, formed a Tokyo based band called TRI4TH. Active in recording sessions and live performances with famous Japanese artists.

Visit Yusuke Oritat's group TRI4TH's official Website. ×

JEFF OSTROSKI

"I've played the same equipment for my entire career and have never found another horn worth switching to. Until I played a Cannonball. The sound and intonation are incredibly consistent throughout the entire range of the instrument and it could not be easier to play. My 725-L allows me the freedom to forget about trumpet playing and concentrate on making music. It's versatility is unparalleled. Whether I'm doing lead/commercial work, playing in a Broadway pit or playing jazz in a small group, Cannonball trumpets make me a better trumpet player and a better musician." ~ Jeff Ostroski

BIO

Jeff Ostroski is a trumpet player, composer and educator originally from Connecticut. Jeff holds degrees from Lawrence University (BM, 2006) where he studied with John Daniel, and The Eastman School of Music (MM, 2008) where he studied with Clay Jenkins. Jeff played lead trumpet in the Lawrence University Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Fred Sturm from 2002-2006, which won a Downbeat Award during his final year. He went on to play lead trumpet in the Eastman Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Bill Dobbins from 2006-2008.

Since gradutating, Jeff has freelanced in upstate New York with many acclaimed artists including Harold Danko, Bill Dobbins, Rich Thompson, Jose Encarnacion, Randy Brecker, Al Chez, Dennis Tribuzzi, Gap Mangione, Mike Kaupa, Tito Allen, Lalo Rodriguez, Kevin Ceballo, Cano Estremera, Frankie Vasquez, Michael Stewart, Frankie Negron, Lou Christie, Bobby Rydell and more. He was also a regular member of the Dave Rivello Ensemble, and Orquesta Antonetti.

Equally comfortable in more legit settings, Jeff has played trumpet in productions of Caberet, Sweeney Todd and The Music Man at Rochester's Geva Theatre. His Broadway credits include subbing on Catch Me If You Can and Follies. Jeff is currently on the road playing with the Jersey Boys 2nd National Tour. ×

ANGEL "CUCCO" PENA

"As a producer I always look for sound and soul...as a trumpet player that, plus intonation and response in all registers. I first started getting curious about Cannonball when the lead alto sax player in my band changed his Yamaha for a Cannonball. I could not believe the difference in sound and projection! He seemed like a different player and that made me think..... I have to find out if the trumpet can do for me half of what it has done for him. I played the 725 pro and discovered it could! It's really an amazing horn." ~ Angel "Cucco" Peña

BIO

Recognized in the music world for his harmonic sensibility and inspiring technique , Angel "Cucco" Peña is recognized in the Spanish-speaking world as one of the brightest musicians and arrangers of our popular music. He grew and developed under the tutelage of his father Don Angel "Lito" Peña founder of the Pan American Orchestra and example of dedication, seriousness and commitment to excellence.

His collaboration with artists like: Marc Anthony, Ricardo Arjona, Franco de Vita, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Willie Colon, Olga Tanon, Celia Cruz, Chayanne, Ricky Martin, Ednita Nazario, Ruben Blades, José Feliciano, Rocio Jurado, Ilan Chester, Juan Diego Florez projected it to an international market that has discovered and respected. . . His work has ranged from that of a musician, (trumpet player) composer, arranger, producer and musical director.

As a musical director he has conducted major concerts in Puerto Rico and the United States, Spain, Central and South America. With the "Symphonic Salsa" concert he has had the opportunity to lead the Symphony Orchestras of: Puerto Rico, The Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Costa Rica, and Panama, Washington. He also directed the Gilberto Santa Rosa and Lucesita Benitez at Carnegie Hall in New York, Tribute to Celia Cruz in Miami, and Viva Puente at Lincoln Center. Recently had been chosen director and arranger for the Orchestra Symphonic of her concert in Peru Juan Diego Florez. He was selected musical director and producer of the Academy of Latin Grammy Tribute to Marco Antonio Solis in Miami.

In 2003 he accompanied the Puerto Rico Institute of Culture Concert Band as a guest director at the Festival of Castellón de la Plana in Spain and is currently its director.

He has served as musical director in plays such as "Fiddler on the Roof", "Murderous Instincts" and "Jesus Christ Super Star." He has been composing music for soundtracks of the films "La Gran Fiesta", "Nicholas and others," "Under Suspiction", "Dance with Me", "Havana Nights", "Tales of awakening" and "Death in Granada ". He also has scored the renowned Banco Popular de Puerto Rico TV specials for 15 years. His work has been recognized with awards in the production of Marc Anthony (Contra la Corriente) and Olga Tanon (Yo Por Ti) both Grammy winners, the highest honor in the music world.

For the impact of his work and it's meaning in the life of many Puertoricans in 2007 was awarded the title of Doctor of Humanities Honoris Causa. ×

EDDIE RAMIREZ

"Playing my 789RL-B has renewed my love to go in my studio and practice. This horn is so perfect that there's no error in intonation. I really enjoy working scales on every register, because the sound is consistently warm and I don't need to push too hard - which I used to have to do with all my old horns. I will always be proud to say that I'm using a Cannonball trumpet." ~ Eddie Ramirez

BIO

Eddie Ramirez brings over 45 years of international show and tour experience to the stage. Included in his repertoire is big band, swing, Dixie, classical, jazz funk, latin, classic rock, gospel and R&B. Eddie's classical training started at age 7, when he became the youngest trumpet soloist in the Philippines. He went on to write and perform musical scores for TV shows and movies in his mainland, and perform with touring artists such as Stan Getz, Nancy Wilson and Ann Margaret. He played lead trumpet with several big bands, toured with his own latin band Brass Wave, mastered free form jazz in Germany, and honed his multi-instrumentalist skills on tours throughout Asia, Japan, Hawaii, Germany, Canada and the U.S. His arrangement of Chick Corea's "Spain" for the Honolulu Symphony, which he also performed with them, remains a milestone in his career. He also perfected holding a note indefinitely and playing two-horns-atonce, for which he's probably best known in the Islands. Eddie spent the 80's on stage and TV in Hawaii, making albums and touring with Hawaii's top show group Society of Seven. He then toured with Bobby Womack on his Resurrection Tour throughout the U.S., and Joe Louis Walker throughout Europe. In the Bay Area, he's done guest solos on CDs for Danilo, Sista Monica, Elaine Lucia, Chuck Priolo's OMB, IsikoJam, Kirk Casey, and music for CD-Rom games by Electronic Arts. Eddie is currently teaching 158 adult and children music theory, piano, flute, trumpet and vocals and freelancing with Big City Revue, Mitch Woods (Rocket 88 swing band), Rudy Salvini's Big Band, and Danilo. His first U.S. CD "Velvet Fist" was released in 1999, He produced multiple CD's that contains love song of Andrea Bocelli and Josh Groban. And he is currently at work on his next, entitled "The Eddie Ramirez Project". ×

JUAN MANUEL ROSALES

BIO

Juan Manuel Rosales, born in Trujillo-Peru, began his musical career at the age of 12 and at the age of 16 he traveled to Colombia to live in the city of Medellín and study with one of the best trumpet players in the salsa field Danny Jiménez, who formed his career preparing him for a recording trumpet player.

He worked in production and concerts with the most famous Latin tropical music artists such as Tony Vega, Charlie Cardona, Andy Montañez, La India, Tipica 73 de Nueva York, Conjunto Clásico de Nueva York, Sonora Carruseles, Jerry Rivera, Charlie Aponte, Maelo Ruiz , Yiyo Sarante, Gabino Pampini, Jossimar, Tony Dize, Daddy Yankee among many more.

He worked with great Producers such as El Mago de Oz, Iván Calderon, JJ Productions among others, participating in productions with artists such as Olga Tañon, Cristian Alicea, J Balvin, Sony music de Mexico Salsa de los Grandes II among many more.

And in his new stage as a producer working with the best tropical music groups from Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, USA, such as Los Villacorta, Hermanos Andrade, Hermanos Yaipen, Dante Cardosa, David Zahan, among many more, performing the anniversary in 2024 of the Villacorta Brothers in a national and international production.

Juan Manuel Rosales uses the Cannonball trumpet in his recordings, which helps him obtain a powerful and wide sound for tropical music.

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LIN ROUNTREE

"I've never owned "bad" Trumpets just ones that weren't particularly right for me...and I didn't realize that truth until the day I picked up the "Raven!" The first thing I noticed when I played it was how consistent the horn sounded in all registers and at all volumes. And when I took it out for a test run on-stage I was amazed at how responsive and easy it was to play. In my funk/soul performance environment I'm the band leader and am responsible for playing all melodies and solos on every song and I'm constantly competing with loud, amped up instruments. For that I need a Trumpet that can give me: a big sound, endurance, responsiveness and range. The "Bavarian Lion" is that Horn…Thanks Cannonball!" ~ Lin Rountree

BIO

Soul Trumpeter Lin Rountree, an accomplished performer and recording artist, is a pioneer helping to frame the new sound of Soul-Jazz. Direct from the 'new' Detroit music factory, his playing has been described as soulful, funky, and sensual. Be it R&B/Soul or Groove Jazz, he has an innate ability to connect his music to his listener's soul. And his charm, intelligence and wit make him a great entertainer on and off of the stage.

Lin began playing the trumpet in Alexandria VA., when he was just 11 yrs. old. He frequently attended music development programs at The Duke Ellington School for performing arts in Washington DC. Upon his graduation Lin was recruited into the Music program at Florida A&M University where he performed with the famed Marching 100' under the direction of William P. Foster and Dr. Julian White. Lin credits his abilities to practice, prepare and perform to the training that he received at FAMU. Likewise the school is also where he started to develop a deep appreciation for Jazz music and began studying some of its masters. Lin cites trumpeters Miles Davis, Quincy Jones, Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, and Tom Browne as huge influences on both his playing and writing styles. After his graduation and after several stops around the country he found his home in Detroit, Michigan a city with a rich tradition in R&B, Soul and Jazz music. Lin hit the music scene hard by sitting in and learning from well established Detroit musicians. The next few years Lin played in a several top 20 Motown bands but quickly realized that Trumpet players were not typical side-men in smaller R&B units where soloing opportunities were more plentiful, so he formed his own working group, "Up Close" which featured vocalist Michele Nicole. For the next 6 years, then band-leader, Lin worked the tough Detroit club circuit as Up Close quickly became one of the most sought after and top performing bands in the city. In 2004 Lin had a chance encounter with two accomplished producers, Dana Davis and Billy Meadows who after listening to a demo of original songs written by Lin decided to work with and eventually sign him to BDK records. BDK went on to ink a distribution deal with Ryko/Warner Bros through Nu-Millennium records. This after Nu-Millennium owners and industry heavyweights Kindall Minter and Hank Caldwell were blown away with the quality of Lin's material.

Lin has released two solid projects for BDK Records Groovetree and Sumthin' Good that both propelled him into the industry as a driving force in the new generation of instrumental soloists, and put on display, his talents as an innovative composer and polished recording artist. Both projects garnered chart topping singles like: "For Your Love" (feat. Tim Bowman), "Candie", "Sumthin' Good" and "Seldom Sunday". The success of these records has afforded Lin the chance to travel and perform all over the world, as well as the opportunity to play and record with some of the industry's top musicians including: George Benson, Tim Bowman, Kem, Dwele, and Conya Doss among others.

After BDK Records was dissolved in 2010, Lin continued to push forward and released his most audacious project to date: Soul-Tree, The Soul-Jazz Experience in early 2011. This R&B/Soul based Jazz project written and produced by Rountree along with Dana Davis, Jeff Canady, Tony Gordon and Monica Marie Jones. This groove-filled set has 12 tracks including 6 vocal collaborations and 2 popular instrumental covers. The record features R&B sensations Conya Doss, L'Renee, Aaron "AB" Abernathy, Valencia, Michele Nicole, LaRae Starr and Kendrick Jackson. Featured soloists include flautist Althea Renee, pianist Gail Jhonson and renowned guitarist Darryl Dixon. The first single is a rockin' version of Michael Jackson's "You Rock My World" which features Dixon playing a lights-out guitar solo at the end. All of the songs on Soul-Tree represent a new direction in instrumental soul and as a driving force in the new generation of instrumental soloists and polished recording artist; Lin Rountree creates music that will move your soul!

Visit Lin Rountree's official Website. ×

WILLIE ROY JR.

"My Cannonball has an incredible full sound in the upper register and a nice dark solo sound on the lower end. It's free blowing--I can play on it all night--I love the horn!" ~ Willie Roy Jr.

Trumpeter with Toby Keith

BIO

Willey Roy Jr. feels blessed to be in the music industry since 1985 including playing with Toby Keith, The Easy Money band, and Six Flags Over Texas. He studied music at the University of North Texas from 1990-1995. He currently plays trumpet with the Emerald City Band and the Downtown Fever Band. His latest adventure is being hired by the FWISD to work with the (SEAS) Program. This program is exclusively designed for children at the elementary school age ( pre-k to 5th grade) that have issues with their behavior in a school setting. ×

LYNN SAMPSON

"There are only three reasons to buy any trumpet: intonation, valve action, and tone. Cannonballs have excellent intonation. I never use the first or third valve slide to bring a note in tune. The valve action on a Cannonball is phenomenal. When I play long lyric passages of Bach on any other instrument, I have to constantly struggle to make slurred notes come out smoothly. The first moment I picked up a Cannonball this problem was eliminated with its vented valves and weighted valve buttons. Long flowing Baroque chorale prelude melody accompaniments, which can last as long as five minutes or more uninterrupted, can be played on a Cannonball almost effortlessly and seamlessly. The tone of a Cannonball is the rarest of all trumpet sounds. It is edgy enough, yet welcoming and warm. The luckiest thing I ever did for my professional career was switch to a Cannonball." ~ Lynn Sampson

BIO

Lynn Sampson graduated from Brigham Young University High School, Provo, Utah (1967) and has a Certificate in Shakespeare Studies from The Shakespeare Academy, Modesto Junior College, Modesto, California (2001), an Associate of Arts in Theater, also from Modesto Junior College (2007), a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities from Colorado Mesa University, Grand Junction, Colorado (1990), and an Advanced Diploma in Education from The University of London (2002).

His principal teachers for classical trumpet were Dr. Newell Dayley, Professor Emeritus of Music at Brigham Young University, and, at The Aspen Music School, Bernard Adelstein, former first chair trumpet of The Cleveland Orchestra. His principal teacher for jazz trumpet is two-time Grammy winner Roy Hargrove. Inspired by pianist Claudio Arrau and contralto Jennie Tourel, he promotes the trumpet as a singing instrument. His international career began in 1989 with a recital at London's Westminster Central Hall. He performs extensively having received acclaim for his interpretations of the music of Bach. Lynn Sampson performs exclusively on Cannonball instruments. His trumpet is a Cannonball Stone Series "Mad Meg" dated Markneukirchen, Saxony, Germany 2011.

He performs the old standards of the 1930s, '40s, and '50s by the masters of American and Brazilian popular song, such as Cole Porter, Richard Rogers, George Gershwin, and Carlos Jobim. His Jazz Ensemble presents these classics in a smooth, soft, melody driven style. One of his most recent performances was on Memorial Day at The Sacramento Music Festival in Sacramento, California. Among the selections were Fats Waller's "Ain't Misbehaven'" and Gershwin’s "A Foggy Day." Many in the crowd aboard the Delta King ferry boat anchored in the Sacramento River delta, traveled from out-of-state returning a third and fourth year in a row to hear Mr. Sampson perform at one of the world’s largest jazz venues. ×

JOEY SOMMERVILLE

BIO

Trumpeteer Joey Sommerville's musical essence lies in the Baptist church. "When I was a teenager, I would judge the caliber of my playing by the number of people in the congregation who 'got happy'. If you aren't touching the listener's soul, then you aren't really playing music. Soul communication is the key."

He has performed and recorded with a wide range of artists including mega-rock group Phish. He was the featured instrumental soloist on the Cirque de Soleil's Grammy-nominated and Juno Award winning album, Alegria. In 2001, he scored a Gavin Top 20 Contemporary Jazz hit as a writer/producer with Bob Baldwin for the single "Business Call". In 2006, Joey took his turn as a featured soloist on Hidden Beach Recording's "Unwrapped Volume 4". He produced bassist/vocalist Rhonda Smith’s "RS2" which features Prince, Sheila E. and gospel great, Fred Hammond. The album made the 2007 Grammy Ballot and was voted one of the 10 best albums of the year by Music Magazine (Japan). In 2007, Joey started The Smooth Jazz After Dark Series at Sambuca Jazz Cafe in Atlanta. The Series features Joey and his group performing with a special guest. Past special guests have included Wayman Tisdale, Marion Meadows, Paul Taylor, Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp, Paul Brown, Chuck Loeb, Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Cole, Peabo Bryson, Ann Nesby, Ronnie Laws, Jeff Golub, Chieli Minucci, Jeff Golub, Jackiem Joyner, Bob Baldwin and Eric Darius.

His latest musical offering, "Like You Mean It" is more than a title, it is a philosophy and code of conduct. "Whatever you do, do it like you mean it!" The album is a labor of love that is both passionate and a whole lot of fun at the same time. Notable collaboraters include Wayman Tisdale on the Average White Band classic, "School Boy Crush"; Mike Phillips playing his heart out on the quiet storm ready instrumental version of Floetry's "Say Yes"; Marion Meadows lending his signature sax sound to "Follow Me" and Phil Perry going where no other vocalist can go on "Reflections". Other standout songs include "Johannesburg" which was recorded in part in Johannesburg with South African musicians and singers and "I Want You Back", a fresh read on The Jackson 5 classic.

The song that gets the most reaction and the one that people always demand at shows is the title cut,"Like You Mean It". "It appeals to everyone from little kids to grandparents crossing all demographic boundaries. “ I constantly have people come up to me singing what they refer to as "the song"... I love it!"

Visit Joey Sommerville's official Website. ×

BRIAN SWARTZ

"My Big Bell 789RL is simply the most versatile horn I've ever played. It's the perfect horn for every gig." ~ Brian Swartz

BIO

Trumpeter Brian Swartz is a diverse musician with a wide range of influences. He has appeared on multiple Grammy nominated and winning recordings with artists including The Dixie Chicks ("Taking the Long Way" which won 5 Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year in February 2007), John Beasley's Monk'estra (which garnered 4 Grammy Nominations in 2 years), The Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Scott Healy's Tentet and Kim Richmond's Concert Jazz Orchestra. He has also performed or recorded with Michael Bublé, Saint Motel, Patti Labelle, Natalie Cole, Dianne Reeves, Tom Harrell, Brad Mehldau, Rickie Lee Jones, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Azar Lawrence, Joe Henry, Keb' Mo', The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Gerry Gibbs, Connie Han, Taylor Eigsti, Raya Yarbrough, The O’Jays, Bob Florence, The Luckman Jazz Orchestra, Francisco Aguabella, Jose Rizo’s Jazz on the Latin Side All Stars and many more. Since 2005, Swartz has proudly held the trumpet chair in Johnny Vatos' Oingo Boingo Former Members. He is also a founding member of the Los Angeles Jazz Collective, a non-profit organization whose mission is the promotion of original jazz in Los Angeles and abroad.

Brian Swartz has recorded four jazz CD’s as a leader: "There’s Only Me" (Noir Records 2000), "Live at the Jazz Bakery" (Summit Records 2005), "Three" (Summit Records 2006) and "Portraiture" (Summit Records 2014). As an arranger, he has served as staff arranger for The Luckman Jazz Orchestra, John Beasley’s Monk’estra, Oingo Boingo Former Members and the ABC TV show, "Duets".

Visit Brian Swartz's official Website. ×

DANIEL THROWER

"I love the flugelhorn in general, but it's hard to fall in love with one. I fell in love with the Cannonball 779! The sound is exquisite, the intonation is incredible, and the valves facilitate technical playing like no other flugel I've played. Add to that the ease of both high range and pedals, it wasn't a hard decision to switch to Cannonball!" ~ Daniel Thrower

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CRYSTAL J. TORRES

Trumpet player for Beyonce Knowles' All Female Band

BIO

Crystal "Røvél" Torres, is an American singer, songwriter, and trumpeter, born of Puerto Rican and Italian heritage. Aside from 5 world tours as a member of Beyoncé's all female "Sugamama" band, the multi talented Crystal "Røvél" Torres has also been onstage or composing in studios for many different artists such as Jennifer Lopez, Trisha Yearwood, Destiny's Child, Clark Terry, Roy Hargrove, Paquito D’Rivera, Jhene Aiko, Lupe Fiasco & Jay-Z. She has performed in over 50 countries on world stages including, Glastonbury, Madison Square Garden, Rock in Rio, the Super Bowl, the Grammys, Stade de France, Radio City Music Hall, the Rose Bowl and the White House. During her travels this year on tour with Spanish pop star, Alejandro Sanz, the songstress will be completing her self- produced, singer-songwriter debut project titled: “R.Ø.V.É.L.”.

Visit Crystal J. Torres's official Website. ×

BRAD TURNER

"I picked up this trumpet, tried it, and couldn't put it down. I had to have it. It has the warm full tone I look for in a jazz horn, with the core and brilliance that makes it flexible across the spectrum of what I am asked to do as a professional. I love it!" ~ Brad Turner

Influential Canadian Trumpet Player

BIO

Brad Turner's phenomenal talents as a trumpeter, pianist, drummer and composer make him one of Canada's most in-demand and highly esteemed musicians. Brad has performed and/or recorded with such artists as Joe Lovano, Kenny Wheeler, John Scofield, Michael Moore, Reneé Rosnes, Jimmy Greene, Terell Stafford, Ingrid Jensen, Mike Murley, Seamus Blake, Kenny Werner and Ernie Watts. Brad's groups have opened for McCoy Tyner, Roy Haynes, Wayne Shorter, Clark Terry, Diana Krall, Ahmad Jamal and Tony Bennett.

As a leader, Brad has released six albums, five as a trumpeter with his quartet, the most recent being the 2007 release Small Wonder, which was nominated for a Juno in the Traditional Jazz Album category.

What Is, released in 2005, won Best Jazz Album, at the 2006 Western Canadian Music Awards. As a pianist with his trio, the 2004 release, Question the Answer was nominated for a 2005 Canadian Urban Music Award, and a 2006 Canadian Indie Music Award.

In 1997 and 1998 Brad won Juno Awards (Canadian Grammy) for Best Contemporary Jazz Album recognizing his work in the internationally established electric jazz group Metalwood.

Winner of National Jazz Awards for Jazz Composer of the Year (2000 and 2002), Brad was awarded Musician of the Year for 2005, and was a recipient of 2006 Victor Lynch-Staunton Prize for excellence in musical achievement.

In 2008 and again in 2009, Brad took home National Jazz Awards for Trumpeter of the Year and Producer of the year.

Brad is a member of the jazz studies faculty at Capilano University, in North Vancouver, B.C.

Visit Brad Turner's official Website. ×

ROB WALKER

BIO

As a trumpet player, Rob Walker has worked with notable artists such as Wayne Newton, Natalie Cole, Ray Charles, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Supremes, and The Moody Blues. In 2010, he was the featured soloist with the United States Air Force Jazz Commanders. Walker has also played in the pit for two Broadway national tours, "Chicago", "Spamalot", and for the Glenn Beck Red Sweater Christmas tour. Walker's rendition of “Call to the Post” can be heard on NBC’s coverage of the Preakness, Belmont, and the Kentucky Derby.

Walker is a prominent composer with major film, television and performing credits. His film credits include Easy A (2010), Tenure (2009), Bandslam (2009), Whip It (2009), College Road Trip (2008), High School Musical III (2009), and Fired Up! (2009). His television credits include Harry’s Law, Friday Night Lights, Cold Case, The O.C., Animal Planet, Glory Daze, All My Children, and One Live to Life. His music has been heard internationally in over 30 countries.

Rob Walker is the Director of Jazz Studies and Applied Trumpet at the College of Idaho and frequently appears as a clinician, jazz festival adjudicator, and jazz educator. He also teaches Jazz History at the College of Southern Idaho and College of Western Idaho. He was the 2011 Artist In Residence at Eagle High School in Idaho where he composed for and performed with both the Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble. He was the Guest Artist at Fredonia High School (NY) in February 2012.

Rob Walker studied music composition jazz at the Berklee College of Music. He received a Berklee Alumni Award in 2009. He recently received the 2012 ASCAP Plus Award for his compositions for concert bands and orchestra. He holds a B.A. from New York University in Film and Music Composition and did additional compositional studies at The Juilliard School. He also studied composition privately with William Russo. Walker is a member of the American Composers Forum, International Trumpet Guild, and ASCAP. He currently hosts his own jazz radio show on Boise State Public Radio called Jazz Conversations with Rob Walker. ×

JEFF WILFORE

"The word that sums up why I love my new 725-B so much is versatility. Whether I'm playing lead on Broadway, a section part at a session, or something more legit, I know I'm going to get the sound that I want with the least amount of effort. The horn is so open from top to bottom, and the notes slot incredibly well. High, low, warm, bright, loud, soft...this horn makes it easier to do it all. In short, my new 725-B makes me an even better trumpet player!" ~ Jeff Wilfore

Freelance trumpeter in NYC

BIO

After earning a Masters in Jazz Studies from the Eastman School of Music, Jeff decided to do some traveling. 120 countries later, he moved to New York, after playing in almost every musical setting imaginable.

Since 2003, Jeff has been one of the most in demand freelance trumpet players in New York City. Some of his many Broadway show credits include Cats, Hairspray, A Chorus Line, Gypsy, Curtains, In The Heights, and The Little Mermaid. After taking his first audition since his college ensemble days, he recently earned a spot in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular orchestra. Jeff has also played on numerous national tours, including West Side Story, and Chicago.

Having spent nearly 5 years on the road with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, he has a deep appreciation for big band music. In addition to the Miller band, he has played with both the Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey Orchestras, as well as the Harry James, Woody Herman, Artie Shaw, and Gene Krupa Orchestras.

When not playing on Broadway, Jeff can be found playing in a variety of settings, including jingles, record dates, jazz and big-band hits, and all types of concerts, from Orchestral concerts and Operas, to Rock and R&B gigs. ×

SEUNG-CHUL YOO

BIO

- Graduated of Trumpet department of Seoul Institute of the Arts
- Master degree in Dankook University Graduate School

Live Session of Singer : Kim Dong-ryul, Bum-soo Kim, god, Lee So-ra, Park Jung-hyun, etc. and so on.

- Member of Trumpet in 'Jazzpark Big Band
- Member of Roots reggae band ‘NST and the Soulsauce’ that nominated for 2020 Korean Popular Music Awards.
- Concert member of 2015 Japan's Trumpeter 'Hino Terumasa'
- Concert member of 2015 Laura Fygi, a Dutch jazz vocalist
- Concert member of 2017, American jazz vocalist 'Halie Loren'
- Fuji Rock Festival, Japan
- Wormex, Finland
- Mundial Festival, Canada
- Kennedy Center of America

Current) Using trumpet '727-B' model of Cannonball. ×