Faculty Profile

Bill Baxtresser
NMS Trumpet Faculty

As a New Music School trumpet teacher, I firmly believe that the teaching of music is a crucial ingredient in the development of young people today. I bring first and foremost, a nurturing, esteem building belief, that not only elevates my students musical abilities, it tends to manifest itself in other aspects of my students lives. When my students can be taught music as a second language, they will carry a huge advantage as he or she grows into adulthood. This is never lost. It is essential that the teaching and learning of music provide times of productive esteem building, as well as musically challenging sessions without undue stress. This environment for teaching at the New Music School absolutely thrills me.

I bring a diverse background to my studio. My professional familiarity with all types of music, be it Classical music at one end of the spectrum, to Jazz or Rock at the other, will enlighten the student as we explore the world of trumpet fundamentals. Each student will have an opportunity to learn all of the styles, as I believe this to be the key element for the early development of any trumpeter.

I am excited about being the newest member of the Gaudete Brass quintet that performs throughout the country. In addition to my duties with the Gaudete Quintet, I am currently 2nd trumpet with the West Shore Symphony Orchestra. I was principal cornet with the West Michigan Brass Band in 2008, when we won the “Open Division Championship” in North American Brass Band Association’s annual competition, held in Louisville Kentucky. As a student, I was a member of the Detroit Symphony Jazz orchestra where I was a fortunate enough to be under the tutelage of the legendary trumpeter, Marcus Belgrave. I received my Bachelor of Music Trumpet Performance Degree from Western Michigan University. While at WMU, I was a member of the New Music Project, a contemporary music ensemble that performed new works by Michigan student composers. As a free-lance trumpeter in the Chicago area, I am also play regularly with the Rock Band “Visionaire,” performing around Chicago.

If you would like to contact Mr. Baxtresser, please email him at billbaxtresser@newmusicschool.com.