Paul Butcher

Paul is a professional trumpeter, pianist, writer, and educator living in Lake Alfred, FL. His first trumpet teacher was his father, Allen Butcher, who taught him not only how to practice and learn, but also how to be versatile in music styles. While continuing his studies with his father at UW-Oshkosh, Paul additionally studied with Vincent Cichowicz of the Chicago Symphony and Northwestern University. Mr. Cichowicz's work with Paul was very beneficial in preparing him for a successful audition with the Air Force Academy Band. Immediately after his stint with the USAF Academy Band Paul pursued, and graduated with, a master's degree in trumpet performance at the University of Denver. While in Denver, he was an active and versatile freelancer. This experience helped prepare him for the demands of studio and live work in Nashville, including TV shows, jingles, and recordings. While working in Nashville Paul also studied for several years with William Adam of Indiana University. Since moving to Florida, Paul's versatility on all trumpets and styles has allowed him opportunities to perform with orchestras, Broadway shows, opera companies, recording and TV studios, and as a featured soloist in numerous jazz groups. As a jazz pianist his work ranges from reggae groups to jazz trios to R&B groups. Paul is currently working with West African world music artist, Gutty Duarte, performing on keys and accordion. As an educator, Paul worked for 17 years at Southeastern University in Lakeland, FL where he developed a full jazz curriculum. This year he started working at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL as director of jazz studies and professor of music management.