Trumpet Player Resume Examples & Templates

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools employers use to screen resumes. They scan text for keywords and structured sections, then rank or discard resumes that don't match.

For a Trumpet Player, ATS looks for specific skills like orchestral repertoire, lead trumpet, sight-reading, lip flexibility, endurance, jazz improvisation, brass pedagogy, repertoire names, instrument models (e.g., Bach Stradivarius), and certifications like MMus or ABRSM Grade 8. You need to match those words from the job posting so the system flags you as a fit.

Follow these best practices:

• Use standard section titles: "Work Experience", "Education", "Skills", "Performances".
• Place keywords naturally in bullets and descriptions, not hidden in images or headers.
• Avoid tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, and graphs.
• Choose readable fonts like Arial or Calibri and use one font size for body text.
• Save as a text-friendly file like .docx or PDF saved from Word. Skip heavily designed templates.

Common mistakes to avoid include swapping exact keywords for creative synonyms. If the posting asks for "lead trumpet" avoid only writing "first chair brass". Don't put crucial info in headers, footers, or images. Don't omit awards, certifications, or instrument models that the ad lists.

Use short, clear bullets showing measurable outcomes. List repertoire, ensembles, solo appearances, teaching credentials, and recording credits using exact phrases the ad uses. That helps both the machine and the human who reads it.

Pick a clean, single-column layout for a Trumpet Player resume. Use reverse-chronological order so your recent performances and gigs appear first.

Keep length to one page if you're entry-level or mid-career. Use two pages only if you have long lists of concerts, recordings, and teaching history.

Choose an ATS-friendly font like Calibri or Georgia. Use 10-12pt for body text and 14-16pt for section headers.

Use clear headings like Summary, Performance Experience, Education, Recordings, and Skills. Put dates and locations in consistent spots so readers scan easily.

Leave enough white space between sections and entries. Use 0.5" to 0.75" margins and 6 to 8 point spacing after headers to keep things readable.

Avoid over-designed templates with heavy graphics, side columns, or text boxes. Those elements often break parsing and distract hiring teams.

Common mistakes include long paragraphs, mixed fonts, and listing every minor gig. Focus on recent, relevant engagements and measurable results, like concerts led, tours, or recordings released.

List measurable achievements first, such as solo appearances, principal positions, or charting recordings. Put technical skills like notation software or languages in a compact Skills section.

Use bullet points for each role and start each bullet with a strong verb like led, performed, recorded, or taught.

Why a tailored cover letter matters

You want to show more than your resume. A cover letter lets you tell a short story about why you fit the Trumpet Player role. It proves you care about this ensemble and this audition.

Key sections

• Header: Put your contact details, the company's name, and the date.
• Opening: Name the Trumpet Player role, state where you saw the opening, and share one strong qualification.
• Body: Connect past work to the job needs. Note projects, repertoire, technical skills like articulation and range, and soft skills like ensemble listening. Use numbers when possible.
• Closing: Reiterate interest, ask for an audition or meeting, and thank the reader.

Opening paragraph

Start strong. Say the exact role you want and why that company excites you. Mention one clear achievement, like principal parts played or competitions won.

Body paragraphs

Match your experience to the job. Describe relevant repertoire, solo work, chamber experience, and orchestral positions. Name specific skills like sight-reading, endurance, or range. Give brief, quantifiable results, for example, “performed 30 concerts last season” or “led a brass section of six players.” Use keywords from the posting.

Closing paragraph

Wrap up by restating your fit and asking for the next step. Offer availability for an audition and thank them for considering you.

Tone & tailoring

Keep your voice professional and warm. Write directly to the hiring manager when possible. Customize each letter rather than reuse a long template. Keep sentences short and clear. Talk like you would to a supportive mentor.

You're crafting a resume for a trumpet player, so every detail matters. Recruiters and directors scan fast. Tiny mistakes can cost you an audition or a callback.

Below are common pitfalls trumpet players make, with clear examples and fixes you can use right away.

If you play trumpet and want a clear resume that gets auditions, this set of FAQs and tips will help. You'll learn what to list, how to show recordings, and how to format experience for orchestras, bands, and teaching jobs.