Primary Instrument: Trumpet
Trumpeter / Composer Leon Jordan Jr. is one of the most expressive and extraordinarily talented young musicians in jazz. As a native of Philadelphia, he developed a foundation early on that is deeply rooted in the jazz tradition.
When asked about his goals, Leon Jordan Jr. humbly responded, There is so much to learn, I strive to master the vocabulary and mature to the point where as a composer and player I can influence emotions in others as I have been influenced. This young prodigy began playing trumpet initially by chance in the Emlen Elementary school, a public school in Philadelphia. It was Leon's desire to take saxophone lessons, however only the trumpet was available. He excelled quickly with diligent daily practice. With the assistance of dedicated teachers, participation in various community workshops, private instruction and old fashioned hard work, Leon excelled. By high school Leon was performing professionally and received praise from prominent professionals and media. He had become the beneficiary of the wisdom, maturity and infinite potential of those whom he was exposed. He uses every performance to display his abundant talent. He was awarded top honors all through high school, receiving more than fifty trophies and medals for section awards, solo awards, state and regional competitions and was awarded the prestigious Marian Anderson award in 2004.
Leons extensive experience at such a young age and extraordinary talent has afforded him the opportunity to share the stage with such luminaries as Clark Terry, Grover Washington Jr. John Blake, Kenny Garrett, Nicholas Payton, Benny Golson, Charles Fambrough, Terell Stafford, Marcus Bellgrave, Tim Warfield, Gerald Veasley, Bootsie Barnes and drumming legend Mickey Roker just to name a few. Eighteen year old Leon Jordan Jr. is currently a full scholarship student attending UARTS in Philadelphia, majoring in music performance and composition.
He now has more than a dozen completed original compositions to his credit and continues to compose daily. His brilliant sound and virtuosity continue to propel him to new heights. Although Leon is fortunate to continue to receive direction and advice from so many exceptional and caring people, he can take some credit for his promising future. Through his relentless hard work he has demonstrated the necessary qualities of intelligence, discipline and patience that has allowed him to take advantage of the wisdom of others.
