Biography

Trumpet player Jesse Hazzard-Watkins was born and raised in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. He began playing the trumpet in the 4th grade and studied with trumpeter and band director Doug Purcell through high school. During his last two summers in high school, Jesse attended Kinhaven School of Music in Weston, VT, a chamber music based summer program for talented young classical musicians. Those summers solidified Jesse’s desire to develop his musicianship, and he decided to continue his studies in college.

Jesse attended Ithaca College School of Music in Ithaca, NY, graduating magna cum laude with dual bachelor’s degrees in Trumpet Performance and Music Education. While at Ithaca College he studied with Dr. Kim Dunnick. Upon completing his bachelor’s degree, Jesse decided to continue his study of trumpet with Eric Berlin at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, where he completed his Masters Degree in Music in May of 2007. Jesse now lives in the town of Vienna, Virginia, in Fairfax County just outside of Washington DC, where he works as a trumpet performer and teacher.

Jesse’s musical experience includes a wide range of individual and ensemble performances including orchestra and wind band. While at Ithaca College, he performed with numerous ensembles including the Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Brass Choir, Symphony Band, and Concert Band. He also presented three solo recitals and a brass quintet recital while at Ithaca College. At UMass, Jesse was a member of the Faculty Brass Quintet (Infinity Brass), and the Graduate Brass Quintet; he was principal trumpet of both the University Orchestra and Wind Ensemble; and, he performed a master’s solo recital.

In addition to classical music, Jesse plays with the innovative contra dance band Elixir. Elixir is a high-energy dance band that integrates the traditional sound of fiddle and guitar with the rich texture and rhythmic excitement of a full horn section.

In his teaching Jesse blends a strong background in music education with a personal touch that creates a supportive, and challenging environment for each student. He has experience teaching students with widely varied backgrounds, from those brand new to the instrument to experienced trumpeters of all ages. Jesse strives to develop a positive working relationship with each student and to challenge him or her to develop the skills he or she needs as a trumpet player. He brings a rich sense of musicality to his teaching, encouraging students to play more than just the notes (although those are important too) and to express themselves through their playing.

Jesse wants to develop both his trumpet playing and his teaching to the highest level. He aspires to develop a career as a college level instructor while maintaining an active professional performance career. He wants to create excellent musical experiences for students and audiences alike.