Trumpet

Specializing in classical and jazz, I’m a former Lead Jazz Trumpeter for the XIX Area Jazz Band, multiple All-District, Region, & Area Band Trumpeter, and have represented the state of Texas more than once at the annual Texas State Solo & Ensemble Convention. Since early 2000’s, I have worked with many students who have demonstrated significant improvement including top marks at Region band auditions and has been the Trumpet instructor at Music & Arts. Moreover, I have been part of the trumpet judging panel for District & Region band for both junior high and high school since 2009. That year, two of my students placed in the symphonic band (top band) out of 77 trumpets, and one finished with the highest distinction: 1st chair, representing the top trumpeter in the entire region! In 2010, my best student placed a phenomenal 2nd chair (coincidentally also out of 77) in the top band as the lone 6th grader that made region! Keeping up the strong tradition of top trumpet students, in 2014, 2 of my most talented high school students finished in the top band sitting next to each other as 1st chair & 2nd chair, beating out many upper classmen trumpeters as only incoming 10th graders!

As a freelance professional trumpeter, I have played at dozens of banquets, social events, weddings, church services, anniversaries, festivals, private parties, celebrations and even funerals. In February 2011, I was one of the 6 winners of a musical instrument talent audition where nearly 1000 musicians from all over the country competed to be part of the prominent live show in the Philippines. “Willing Willie”, the most popular game show there aired on TV5, draws milliions of spectators daily not only in Philippines, but around the world. Aside from competing in musical auditions, I have played with professional small combo groups that specializes in many types and genres, including Big Band, Jazz, Standards, Latin Hits, and Love Ballads such as “Misty”, “Love’s Theme” and the most recognizable song internationally, “Michelle.” For different churches and groups in the greater Houston area, I have been asked to play special music and am often hired to play at special events. Performing the Star Spangled Banner is something I’m quite familiar with as well, and have played it numerous times at different venues including D.A.R.E. graduations for my father. Lupang Hinirang (Philippine National Anthem), Chatanooga ChooChoo, I Will Survive, In The Mood, Mambo #5, Respect, Route 66, Sing Sing Sing, YMCA, as well as timeless classics like Chuck Mangione’s Feels So Good and Herb Alpert’s Rise are just a few I have also performed with various groups and people throughout the years.

In addition, I have jammed with many big bands and jazz bands both nationally & internationally (most recently in July 2011), and have been a member of a group that has the distinction of being the only Houston big band who has ever performed in Mexico.

If you would like to see and hear some of my Trumpet performances, including many Christian hymns and my favorite christian song, please visit my YouTube channel.
For info on trumpet lessons and to view the current specials, please visit the “lessons” page. Or, if you would like to hire me to complement your special event, please contact me!

** Please note there are no refunds for those who avail my advanced payment option.

Neph playing a Trumpet solo “O How He Loves You And Me” (12/27/15)

Neph playing a Trumpet solo “Tell me The Story of Jesus” (12/27/15)

Sunday Service Worship

Sunday Service Worship

Neph playing at his weekly church gig

Neph plays Star Spangled Banner for 2015 Independence Day