Trumpeter / Composer / Arranger

Melvin Jones shines as a modern, consummate, and multi-faceted artist. Whether performing simmering ballads in an intimate setting or screaming a solo over a professional horn section in front of thousands, Jones’ trumpet delivers for fans and critics alike. His unique style, combined with his superb technical facility, crafts an almost hypnotic sound for audiences, seamlessly creating jazz-oriented compositions drawn from diverse musical genres.

A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Jones began his musical journey as a student at Morehouse College in Atlanta. While studying at Morehouse, he made an appearance on TLC’s triple platinum hit album “Fanmail,” and co-founded a latin jazz ensemble called Rio Negro. Highly successful, this distinctive group performed nationally to wide acclaim while recording three group albums. Jones then pursued a master’s degree in music at the Mason Gross School of the Arts where he received intense instruction from the world-renowned trumpeter and educator, the late William “Prof” Fielder. “Prof’s” illustrious student roster includes greats like Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, David Sanchez, Kenny Garrett, and classmate Sean Jones. After graduation, Jones enjoyed a boisterous career, performing extensively throughout the United States and abroad while also teaching and lecturing at various universities and schools.

Many industry giants have graced the stage with Jones throughout his career, and he relishes these artistic collaborations. He has played and partnered with Don Braden, Clark Terry, Victor Goines, Carmen Lundy, Terence Blanchard, Antonio Hart, and Freddy Cole. Jones is especially proud to have been a member of the late Illinois Jacquet’s last band which captured his final recording at the Lincoln Center. Recently, Jones had the extraordinary opportunity to team with Tyler Perry’s company appearing and performing in the motion picture, “I Can Do Bad All By Myself” and in his latest stage and film production, “Madea’s Big Happy Family.” Other performance credits include being co-founder for the esteemed pre-ensemble horn section named “Solid State,” which has recorded and/or performed with The Anointed Pace Sisters, The Pussycat Dolls, Fergie, Nicole Scherzinger, Missy Elliott, Keri Hilson, The Penthouse Players (house band for the Mo’Nique Show on B.E.T.), and most recently the “Original Dreamgirl” herself, Jennifer Holiday.

While Jones’ performance career is remarkable, his instructional accomplishments are equally impressive. For nearly six years, he served as the Director of Bands and Instrumental Studies at Morehouse College in Atlanta, where he had the opportunity to direct the world-renowned Morehouse College Jazz Ensemble and Marching Band. Dubbed the “House of Funk,” the marching band has received wide acclaim playing for both local and international events, including a Super Bowl and multiple nationally televised appearances.

Currently, Jones is most excited about the release of his self-produced, solo debut album “Pivot” on Turnaround Records (released April 5th, 2011).

Email: info@melvinjones.net    Website: www.melvinjones.net

Melvin Jones endorses and plays PHT-2060 PHAETON MATTE SILVER Bb TRUMPET exclusively at all performance venues and clinics.