Winston Byrd, a trumpet player, is a master at blending his professional style with a variety of musical genres including jazz, blues and pop. Since the age of 17 Winston has been performing and learning music. He also performs live with some of the most renowned names in the industry. Winston is at the forefront of jazz-fusion and continues to play the music that he loved as a child. He was influenced by jazz legends Maynard Ferguson, Dizzy Gillespie, Arturo Sandoval, and Maynard Ferguson. After graduating high school in 1991 he chose not to go to New York University to study Clinical Psychology but instead decided to pursue a career in the music industry and jazz specifically. As his ability to hit higher notes became more well-known, his reputation soared. Jon Faddis, a fellow trumpeter, was a mentor and role model for Winston. He also opened the doors to him becoming a member the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band. Winston continues to improve his craft by constantly learning new styles and evolving as a musician. He has been praised by his peers for his professionalism, which has helped him to cement his place as one of the most respected jazz musicians today. from http://winstonbyrd.com