24 Most Famous Female Trumpet Players of All Time

The world of trumpet playing has long been dominated by male musicians, but a group of extraordinary female trumpet players has broken through the barriers, bringing exceptional talent and unique styles to the forefront of the music industry.

These women have made significant contributions across various genres, from classical and jazz to avant-garde and Latin music, showcasing their virtuosity and passion for the instrument. This article explores the careers of some of the most famous female trumpet players, highlighting their groundbreaking achievements and the ways they have inspired audiences around the globe.

Whether through innovative compositions, powerful performances, or dedication to education, these trailblazing women have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape, proving that talent knows no gender.

24 Most Talented Popular Female Trumpet Players You Should Know

Here is a list of 24 famous female trumpet players:

#1 Cindy Bradley

Cindy Bradley, born on December 11, 1977, is an American jazz trumpeter and flugelhorn player known for her smooth jazz style. She began playing the trumpet at the age of nine and later earned a degree in jazz studies from Ithaca College. Bradley first gained recognition in the contemporary jazz scene with her debut album “Just a Little Bit” in 2007. Her breakthrough came with the album “Bloom” (2010), which included the hit single “Massive Transit.”

Bradley’s music is characterized by its blend of jazz, funk, and pop influences, showcasing her warm tone and expressive playing. She has received several awards, including the American Smooth Jazz Award for Best New Artist and the Brass Herald Readers’ Poll Award. Cindy Bradley continues to be a prominent figure in smooth jazz, known for her engaging performances and contributions to the genre.

#2 Tine Thing Helseth

Tine Thing Helseth, born on August 18, 1987, in Oslo, Norway, is a renowned classical trumpet soloist. She began playing the trumpet at the age of seven and quickly showed exceptional talent, leading her to study at the Barratt Due Institute of Music and the Norwegian Academy of Music. Helseth gained international attention as a teenager, winning the Eurovision Young Musicians competition in 2006. She has since performed with leading orchestras worldwide, including the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, and the Norwegian Radio Orchestra.

Known for her versatility and expressive playing, Helseth has an extensive repertoire that spans from Baroque to contemporary music. She has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Storyteller” and “Magical Memories,” and is a prominent advocate for expanding the classical trumpet repertoire. Tine Thing Helseth continues to be a leading figure in classical music, admired for her technical skill and musicality.

#3 Alison Balsom

Alison Balsom, born on October 7, 1978, in Hertfordshire, England, is one of the most celebrated classical trumpet players of her generation. She studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Paris Conservatoire, honing her skills under renowned teachers. Balsom’s career took off in the early 2000s, and she has since performed with major orchestras around the world, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Known for her brilliant technique and expressive interpretations, Balsom has recorded a wide range of repertoire, from Baroque to contemporary works. Her albums, such as “Caprice” and “Sound the Trumpet,” have received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including three Classic BRIT Awards. Balsom is also a passionate advocate for music education and has been involved in various outreach programs. Her contributions to classical music have established her as a leading trumpet soloist and a prominent figure in the music world.

#4 Ingrid Jensen

Ingrid Jensen, born on January 12, 1966, in Vancouver, Canada, is a highly respected jazz trumpet player known for her work in modern jazz. She studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she developed her distinctive style, blending jazz with elements of classical and contemporary music. Jensen has performed and recorded with a wide range of artists, including the Maria Schneider Orchestra, Clark Terry, and Terri Lyne Carrington.

She has released several albums as a bandleader, including “At Sea” and “Invisible Sounds,” showcasing her lyrical playing and innovative compositions. Jensen is also an acclaimed educator, serving on the faculty at the Manhattan School of Music and holding various artist-in-residence positions at institutions around the world. Her contributions to jazz have earned her numerous accolades, and she continues to be an influential figure in the jazz community, known for her virtuosic playing and creative approach to music.

#5 Bria Skonberg

Bria Skonberg, born on November 5, 1983, in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada, is a versatile trumpeter, vocalist, and bandleader. Skonberg’s music blends traditional jazz, swing, and modern influences, and she is known for her warm, rich tone and engaging stage presence. She began playing the trumpet at a young age and later studied jazz performance at Capilano University in Vancouver. Skonberg gained wider recognition after moving to New York City, where she became an integral part of the city’s vibrant jazz scene.

Her albums, such as “So Is the Day” and “With a Twist,” have received critical acclaim for their fresh interpretations of jazz standards and original compositions. In addition to her instrumental skills, Skonberg is also a talented vocalist, known for her expressive voice and charismatic performances. She has received several awards, including the Jazz Journalists Association’s Up and Coming Jazz Artist of the Year. Bria Skonberg continues to be a prominent figure in contemporary jazz, celebrated for her dynamic artistry and versatility.

#6 Andrea Motis

Andrea Motis, born on May 9, 1995, in Barcelona, Spain, is a talented trumpeter and vocalist known for her work in jazz and Latin jazz. Motis began studying music at a young age and quickly showed exceptional talent on both the trumpet and as a singer. She gained recognition as a teenager, performing with the Sant Andreu Jazz Band under the direction of Joan Chamorro. Her debut album, “Joan Chamorro Presenta Andrea Motis,” was released in 2010 and showcased her mature musicality and versatility.

Motis has since released several albums, including “Emotional Dance” and “Do Outro Lado do Azul,” blending jazz standards with original compositions and exploring genres like bossa nova and samba. She is known for her lyrical trumpet playing and warm vocal style, drawing comparisons to legendary artists like Chet Baker. Andrea Motis continues to make a significant impact in the jazz world, recognized for her exceptional talent and expressive performances.

#7 Nadje Noordhuis

Nadje Noordhuis, born in Australia, is a jazz trumpeter known for her lyrical and emotive playing style. She studied at the Manhattan School of Music, where she honed her skills and developed a unique voice in the jazz genre. Noordhuis blends elements of jazz, classical, and folk music, creating a distinctive sound that has been praised for its warmth and expressiveness. She released her self-titled debut album in 2012, which received critical acclaim for its innovative compositions and sophisticated arrangements.

Noordhuis has performed with a variety of ensembles, including the Maria Schneider Orchestra and Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society. She is also a respected educator, sharing her expertise through workshops and masterclasses. Nadje Noordhuis continues to be a significant figure in the jazz world, known for her evocative trumpet work and contributions to contemporary jazz.

#8 Rachel Therrien

Rachel Therrien, born in Canada, is a versatile jazz trumpeter and composer known for her eclectic style and innovative compositions. Therrien studied jazz performance at McGill University and the University of Montreal, developing a strong foundation in both traditional and modern jazz. Her music often blends elements of jazz, Latin, and world music, reflecting her diverse influences and curiosity about different musical traditions.

Therrien has released several albums as a bandleader, including “Pensamiento: Proyecto Colombia” and “Why Don’t You Try?” which showcase her compositional skills and improvisational prowess. She has performed at major jazz festivals worldwide and collaborated with notable musicians such as Paquito D’Rivera and Kenny Werner. Therrien is also dedicated to music education, teaching workshops and clinics internationally. Her work continues to push the boundaries of jazz, earning her recognition as one of the leading trumpet players of her generation.

#9 Maite Hontelé

Maite Hontelé, born in 1980 in Utrecht, Netherlands, is a renowned Dutch trumpeter known for her work in salsa and Latin music. Hontelé developed a passion for Latin music at a young age and pursued her studies at the Rotterdam Conservatory. She gained prominence as a solo artist and bandleader, performing with renowned salsa and Latin jazz musicians in Colombia and other parts of Latin America. Hontelé’s albums, such as “Llegó la Mona” and “Te Voy a Querer,” feature a blend of traditional salsa, bolero, and Latin jazz, showcasing her warm trumpet tone and rhythmic sensibility.

Her dedication to the genre earned her the nickname “La Mona,” a term of endearment in Colombia. Hontelé has been nominated for several Latin Grammy Awards and has performed at major festivals and venues worldwide. She is celebrated for her contributions to Latin music and her ability to bridge cultural and musical boundaries.

#10 Yazz Ahmed

Yazz Ahmed, born in 1983 in London, England, is a British-Bahraini trumpeter and composer known for her innovative fusion of jazz and Arabic music. Ahmed’s unique musical voice reflects her diverse cultural heritage, blending traditional Middle Eastern scales and rhythms with contemporary jazz elements. She studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and has since established herself as a leading figure in the modern jazz scene.

Ahmed’s albums, such as “La Saboteuse” and “Polyhymnia,” have received widespread critical acclaim for their inventive compositions and rich, atmospheric soundscapes. Her work often explores themes of identity, heritage, and social justice, making her a powerful voice in contemporary music. Ahmed has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Radiohead, Lee “Scratch” Perry, and These New Puritans. Her contributions to jazz have been recognized with numerous awards, and she continues to push the boundaries of the genre with her distinctive style and vision.

#11 Clora Bryant

Clora Bryant, born on May 30, 1927, in Denison, Texas, was an American jazz trumpeter and one of the few prominent female musicians in the history of jazz. Bryant began playing the trumpet in high school and later attended Prairie View A&M University, where she honed her skills. She moved to Los Angeles in the 1940s and quickly became a respected figure in the West Coast jazz scene, performing with legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, and Max Roach.

Bryant was known for her virtuosic technique and ability to navigate the bebop style, which was predominantly male-dominated at the time. Her album “Gal with a Horn,” released in 1957, showcased her impressive trumpet playing and musicality. In addition to her performance career, Bryant was an advocate for music education and often spoke about the challenges and opportunities for women in jazz. Clora Bryant’s pioneering work paved the way for future generations of female jazz musicians, and she remains a celebrated figure in the history of jazz.

#12 Valerie Ponomarev

Valerie Ponomarev, born in 1943 in Moscow, Russia, is a renowned jazz trumpeter known for her work with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. Ponomarev began studying the trumpet at an early age and developed a passion for jazz despite the genre’s limited availability in the Soviet Union. In the 1970s, she emigrated to the United States and joined the Jazz Messengers, becoming one of the few female members of the iconic group.

Ponomarev’s playing is characterized by its bright tone, technical precision, and deep understanding of the bebop tradition. She has released several albums as a bandleader, including “The Messenger” and “Forces of Nature,” showcasing her compositions and trumpet work. In addition to her performing career, Ponomarev is an accomplished educator, sharing her knowledge of jazz through teaching and workshops. Her contributions to the jazz world have been recognized with numerous accolades, and she continues to be an influential figure in the genre.

#13 Jaimie Branch

Jaimie Branch, born on June 17, 1983, in Huntington, New York, was an American avant-garde jazz trumpeter known for her bold improvisational style and genre-defying compositions. Branch studied at the New England Conservatory of Music and quickly established herself in the experimental jazz scene. Her music blends elements of free jazz, punk, and noise, characterized by its raw energy and adventurous spirit. Branch’s debut album “Fly or Die,” released in 2017, received critical acclaim for its innovative approach and political commentary.

The album’s follow-up, “Fly or Die II: Bird Dogs of Paradise,” further cemented her reputation as a leading voice in contemporary jazz. Branch was known for her powerful trumpet playing and fearless exploration of new sonic territories. Her work challenged traditional boundaries and addressed social and political themes, making her a significant figure in modern jazz. Jaimie Branch passed away in 2022, but her legacy continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike.

#14 Nadje Noordhuis

Nadje Noordhuis is an Australian-born jazz trumpeter known for her lyrical and emotive playing style. After studying at the Manhattan School of Music, Noordhuis quickly established herself in the jazz scene with a sound that blends jazz, classical, and folk elements.

Her self-titled debut album, released in 2012, was met with critical acclaim, showcasing her skillful compositions and warm, expressive trumpet tone. Noordhuis is also a member of the Maria Schneider Orchestra and has collaborated with various other ensembles and artists. In addition to performing, she is an active educator, conducting workshops and masterclasses worldwide. Noordhuis continues to be a significant figure in contemporary jazz, known for her evocative performances and contributions to the genre.

#15 Melissa Aldana

Melissa Aldana, born on December 3, 1988, in Santiago, Chile, is a renowned jazz saxophonist and trumpeter. While primarily known for her saxophone playing, Aldana is also proficient on the trumpet. She began her music studies at a young age, influenced by her father, who is also a saxophonist. Aldana moved to the United States to attend the Berklee College of Music, where she refined her skills and developed her unique voice in jazz.

She gained international recognition after winning the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition in 2013, becoming the first female and first South American to do so. Her albums, including “Melissa Aldana & Crash Trio” and “Visions,” showcase her deep understanding of jazz tradition and innovative approach to composition. Aldana’s work is characterized by its technical brilliance, emotional depth, and exploration of diverse musical influences. She continues to be a prominent figure in the jazz world, celebrated for her artistic vision and contribution to the genre.

#16 Susana Santos Silva

Susana Santos Silva, born on March 3, 1979, in Porto, Portugal, is a trumpeter and composer known for her work in jazz and improvised music. Silva studied at the Porto School of Music and later at the Rotterdam Conservatory, where she developed a distinctive style that blends jazz, free improvisation, and contemporary classical music. She has performed with a wide range of ensembles and artists, including the European Movement Jazz Orchestra and the LAMA trio.

Silva’s playing is noted for its adventurous spirit, technical proficiency, and emotive expressiveness. She has released several albums as a leader, including “Devil’s Dress” and “Impermanence,” which have been praised for their innovative compositions and explorations of sound and texture. In addition to her performing career, Silva is an active composer, creating works for various ensembles and multimedia projects. Her contributions to the contemporary music scene have earned her recognition as one of the leading voices in modern jazz and improvisation.

#17 Lena Bloch

Lena Bloch is a German-born jazz trumpeter known for her work in the New York jazz scene. Bloch studied at various institutions in Europe before moving to the United States to further her studies and career. She is known for her lyrical and nuanced playing style, which blends elements of jazz, classical, and world music. Bloch has performed with a variety of notable musicians and ensembles, including George Garzone and the Brooklyn Jazz Underground.

Her album “Feathery,” released in 2014, showcases her sophisticated compositions and sensitive trumpet work, receiving praise for its intricate arrangements and emotive depth. Bloch’s music often explores complex harmonic structures and melodic development, making her a distinctive voice in contemporary jazz. She continues to perform, compose, and teach, contributing significantly to the jazz community through her artistic and educational endeavors.

#18 Stephanie Richards

Stephanie Richards is an American trumpet player and composer known for her work in experimental and avant-garde jazz. Richards studied at the Eastman School of Music and the California Institute of the Arts, where she developed a unique approach to the trumpet that incorporates extended techniques and unconventional sound production. She has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including John Zorn, Anthony Braxton, and Henry Threadgill.

Richards’ music often explores the intersection of sound and space, utilizing unconventional methods such as playing in unusual acoustic environments or using objects to alter the trumpet’s sound. Her albums, including “Fullmoon” and “Take the Neon Lights,” showcase her innovative compositions and adventurous spirit. In addition to her performing career, Richards is an active educator and advocate for new music, serving as a faculty member at the University of California, San Diego. Her work continues to push the boundaries of contemporary music, earning her recognition as a leading figure in the experimental music scene.

#19 Natsuki Tamura

Natsuki Tamura, born on July 26, 1951, in Otsu, Japan, is a Japanese avant-garde trumpeter known for his innovative techniques and distinctive style. Tamura’s music often blends elements of jazz, free improvisation, and traditional Japanese music, creating a unique and exploratory sound. He has performed and recorded extensively with his wife, pianist Satoko Fujii, as well as with other ensembles and projects. Tamura’s trumpet playing is characterized by its use of extended techniques, including growling, multiphonics, and microtonal playing, which he employs to create a wide range of textures and sounds.

His albums, such as “Ko Ko Ko Ke” and “Dragon Nat,” showcase his experimental approach and willingness to push the boundaries of conventional trumpet playing. In addition to his work as a performer and composer, Tamura is an active educator, sharing his knowledge and techniques with students worldwide. His contributions to the avant-garde and improvised music scenes have earned him a reputation as a pioneering and influential artist.

#20 Leah Zeger

Leah Zeger is an American musician known for her versatility as both a trumpeter and violinist. Though primarily recognized for her violin work in genres ranging from classical to jazz and world music, Zeger is also skilled on the trumpet. She has performed with renowned orchestras and artists, including the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Andrea Bocelli, and Willie Nelson. Zeger’s diverse musical talents have led her to explore various styles, incorporating jazz, classical, and popular music into her performances.

In addition to her instrumental prowess, she is a vocalist and has been featured in numerous recordings and live performances. Zeger’s unique blend of trumpet and violin playing, coupled with her vocal abilities, makes her a multifaceted artist in the contemporary music scene.

#21 Shirley Horn

Shirley Horn, born on May 1, 1934, in Washington, D.C., was an American jazz pianist, vocalist, and occasionally a trumpeter. Horn is best known for her distinctive, soulful voice and her subtle, understated piano style, which earned her critical acclaim in the jazz world. While her trumpet playing was not as prominent in her career as her piano and vocal work, Horn occasionally incorporated the instrument into her performances. Her career spanned several decades, during which she worked with legendary jazz figures such as Miles Davis and Quincy Jones.

Horn’s recordings, including albums like “Here’s to Life” and “You Won’t Forget Me,” showcase her emotive interpretations of jazz standards and ballads. Her contributions to jazz were recognized with numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Performance. Shirley Horn passed away in 2005, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of the most beloved and influential jazz artists of her time.

#22 Rashawn Ross

Rashawn Ross, born on January 16, 1979, in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, is a highly regarded trumpeter best known for his work with the Dave Matthews Band. While Ross is primarily recognized for his role as a touring and recording trumpeter with the band, he has also made significant contributions as a solo artist and session musician. His versatile playing style encompasses jazz, funk, rock, and pop, making him a sought-after musician in various genres.

Ross has collaborated with numerous artists, including Usher, Ludacris, and Maceo Parker. In addition to his trumpet playing, he is skilled in arranging and composing, often contributing to the horn arrangements in the projects he participates in. Rashawn Ross’s technical proficiency and musical versatility have made him a prominent figure in contemporary music, both as a performer and collaborator.

#23 Carol Jarvis

Carol Jarvis is a British musician known primarily as a trombonist, but she has also played the trumpet professionally. Jarvis has an extensive background in both jazz and classical music, performing with leading orchestras and ensembles around the world. She has been featured as a soloist and session musician on numerous recordings, spanning various genres from classical to pop and jazz. Jarvis is also a respected educator, teaching brass instruments at prestigious institutions and conducting masterclasses internationally.

In addition to her musical achievements, Jarvis has become an inspirational figure for overcoming significant health challenges, including a battle with cancer, while continuing her career in music. Her resilience and dedication to her craft have earned her admiration and respect in the music community.

#24 Gabrielle Giffords

Gabrielle Giffords, born on June 8, 1970, in Tucson, Arizona, is more widely known as an American politician and former U.S. Representative. However, she is also a trumpeter and French horn player, showcasing her musical talents alongside her public service career. Giffords has been involved in music from a young age, playing in school bands and continuing her interest in music throughout her life. Her musical pursuits, though not the focus of her public career, reflect her diverse talents and interests.

After surviving an assassination attempt in 2011, Giffords used music therapy, including playing the trumpet, as part of her rehabilitation. Her story of resilience and recovery has inspired many, and her involvement in music continues to be a testament to her determination and passion for the arts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Tine Thing Helseth contribute to classical trumpet music?

Tine Thing Helseth is known for her virtuosity and innovative programming in classical trumpet music. She has performed with major orchestras worldwide and has released acclaimed solo albums, bringing fresh interpretations to traditional and contemporary repertoire.

What makes Ingrid Jensen a notable figure in modern jazz?

Ingrid Jensen is celebrated for her lyrical and expressive trumpet playing, blending jazz with classical and contemporary influences. She has performed with renowned ensembles like the Maria Schneider Orchestra and has released several acclaimed albums as a bandleader.

How has Bria Skonberg influenced the jazz scene?

Bria Skonberg is known for her versatile trumpet playing and warm vocal style, blending traditional jazz with modern elements. She has received critical acclaim for her albums and live performances, earning her a place as a prominent voice in contemporary jazz.

What is Yazz Ahmed known for in the music industry?

Yazz Ahmed is known for her innovative fusion of jazz and Arabic music, creating a unique and atmospheric sound. Her albums, like “La Saboteuse” and “Polyhymnia,” have garnered critical acclaim for their inventive compositions and exploration of cultural themes.