Tim Davis
Trumpet & Educator
Tim Davis is an accomplished classical and jazz brass instrumentalist, ensemble leader, and veteran music educator based in Minnesota. His career spans prestigious orchestral seating, high-energy big band leadership, and a deep commitment to teaching the next generation of brass musicians.
Performance Roles & Ensembles
Tim Davis maintains an active performance schedule across multiple musical genres, stretching from traditional symphonic works to classic big band jazz and international folk music styles:
Austin Symphony Orchestra (Minnesota): Davis serves as the principal trumpet for this orchestra, anchor-leading the brass section in major classical works.
Southern Minnesota REAL Big Band: Showcasing his versatile background in jazz, swing, and commercial brass styles, he serves as the lead trumpet player for this regional big band.
Mariachi Music: Outside of his primary classical and jazz appointments, he dedicates time to directing and performing with local musicians to study and perform traditional Mariachi brass literature.
Commercial Appearances: A notable highlight in his commercial performing career includes being requested to step in on trumpet for the touring group Beginnings, a prominent Chicago tribute band, during their performance in Albert Lea, Minnesota.
Music Education & Faculty Appointments
With a career in public education dating back to 1985, Davis is highly regarded for his pedagogical approach to teaching trumpet, cornet, saxophone, trombone, and tuba:
MacPhail Center for Music: Since 2015, Davis has been a core member of the faculty at the MacPhail Center for Music, instructing students within their individual instruction department and leading seasonal summer music camps.
Student Mentorship: His private teaching studio focuses on advanced development for students seeking to push beyond standard public school band curriculum. He specializes in preparing young brass players for highly competitive state Honor Band and All-State ensemble auditions.
Academic Background
Bachelor of Music (B.M.): Arizona State University (1984).
Master of Music (M.M.): University of Wisconsin–River Falls (2010).