Trumpet Studio

The NIU Trumpet Studio is a dynamic group of musicians dedicated to achieving the highest standards of trumpet technique while growing their artistry to find their unique musical voice. They are the embodiment of professionalism, kindness, inclusivity, curiosity and a desire to improve. You will receive a customized trumpet curriculum designed to maximize your potential.

Graduates have won positions with prominent orchestral training programs such as the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, regional symphony orchestras, elite graduate schools and employment as educators at colleges and high schools across the region.

A World of Opportunities

Join Christopher Scanlon, D.M.A., and Pharez Whitted, M.M., at NIU for undergraduate and graduate trumpet studies. Professor Scanlon is a dynamic performer and educator who has performed in Europe, Asia, Canada, Mexico, the Middle East and across the United States. He brings an unparalleled portfolio to NIU including solo, symphony orchestra, chamber music and new music, as well as commercial, Broadway and Banda Sinaloense repertoire. Professor Whitted is a world-renowned jazz soloist who has performed at presidential inaugurations and major jazz festivals across the country. Come join the NIU trumpet studio and learn the diverse tools of 21st century performers and educators.

Why NIU? 

Trumpet Studio Faculty

Christopher Scanlon, D.M.A.

Christopher Scanlon, DMA is assistant professor of trumpet and brass area coordinator at Northern Illinois University. Scanlon has performed at Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, on Broadway, at the Verbier Festival and Tanglewood Festival where he received the Roger Voisin Trumpet Award. Scanlon can be heard on Deutsche Grammophone, Naxos and Mode records. An active soloist and clinician, Scanlon has presented at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, International Women’s Brass Conference, Indiana Music Educators Conference and the International Trumpet Guild Conference, where he currently serves as chair of the Chamber Music Competition. Scanlon is a member of the award-winning Axiom Brass and a Bach performing artist.


Pharez Whitted, M.M.

Pharez Whitted is instructor of trumpet and jazz studies at NIU. He has performed throughout the United States and overseas, including performances at presidential inaugurations, The Arsenio Hall Show, the Billboard Music Awards, Carnegie Hall, major jazz festivals throughout the country and more. Whitted studied music at DePauw University and went on to earn a master’s degree from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. He has taught at prestigious colleges and universities such as Wabash College, The Ohio State University and Chicago State University. He is currently the director of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra's (CYSO) Jazz Orchestra.

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