A Guide to a Versatile

and Successful Career


Have you ever wondered how you can make a living as a trumpet player?

Whether you’re a high school student dreaming of playing the rest of your life or a college musician unsure of what comes after graduation, The Modern Trumpeter book is your guide to navigating the world of professional trumpet playing.


Inside, you’ll find practical answers to the questions every aspiring trumpeter asks:

How do you get started in the industry? What’s life like on a cruise ship gig? What songs should you know for weddings and corporate events? What is a union, and should you join one? How do you find work as a solo artist, and which agencies book musicians like you?

With insights and stories from dozens professional trumpet players working in jazz, classical, commercial, and military settings, this book gives you the tools, mindset, and insider knowledge to turn your talent into a sustainable career. Insights, stories and behind the scenes of the music industry are provided by the likes of Wayne Bergeron, Bobby Shew, Bria Skonberg, Bijon Watson, Marcus Printup, Glen Marhevka, Dave Richards, Jay Webb, Jerry Hey, Brian MacDonald, Kiku Collins, and many more!

The Modern Trumpeter will be available for purchase in 2026!

To get started, here is a free PDF of the top 100 songs you should know in order to play in an event/cover/wedding band! Ranking from highest priority to lowest priority, this guide will help you know where to focus your efforts in learning these "pop standards."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Jaden Bueno is a passionate musician and educator based in Saratoga Springs, Utah. He began his musical journey at the age of 8 with the piano and started playing the trumpet in 7th grade. Jaden's dedication to the trumpet quickly led him to perform with top musicians throughout junior high, high school, and college. ​ He earned a Bachelor's degree in Trumpet Performance from Utah Valley University in 2021. Throughout his career, Jaden has had the privilege of performing with renowned artists and musicians, including members of Toto, Journey, Tower of Power, Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band, Big Band Voodoo Daddy and the Dave Matthews Band. Jaden is passionate about helping young musicians grow and helping them kickstart their musical careers, hence the Modern Trumpeter project. ​ When he's not immersed in music, Jaden enjoys spending quality time with his wife and family, exploring the outdoors, watching Star Wars, and relaxing in the hot tub.

A Brand New Podcast

Hosted by jaden Bueno

The Modern Trumpeter Podcast explores what it means to build a successful and versatile career as a modern trumpet player. Hosted by Jaden Bueno, this series features in-depth conversations with professional musicians from around the world—covering everything from touring, recording, and freelancing to orchestral, commercial, and jazz work. Each episode offers insight, inspiration, and practical advice to help the next generation of trumpet players navigate today’s ever-changing music industry.

Tune in for in depth interviews, career advice, and real-world stories designed to help you master both the art and business of being a trumpet player in the 21st century.

Available on all major streaming platforms including, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Listen Notes, Podcast Index, Podcast Addict and more.

Help support our cause

Join our Patreon

By joining our Patreon community, you’re helping make The Modern Trumpeter book and podcast a reality. Every membership directly supports the development of the overall project. As a patron, you’ll get early access to podcast episodes, your name featured in future podcast episodes and at the beginning of The Modern Trumpeter book, exclusive PDFs and guides on topics like range, tone, and “trumpet hacks,” and with host Jaden Bueno. Higher tiers also include monthly Zoom Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes updates, and even personal consultation calls.

We want your help growing a movement to support trumpet education and inspire the next generation of players. Together, we’re building something that celebrates the modern trumpet world and gives back to the community that makes it possible.

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