About Morris

"Morris Northcutt is a superb trumpet and cornet player.  He plays with a beautiful, smooth, rich tone and with absolute control in all registers and at all dynamic levels."

Morris Northcutt is a distinctive trumpet virtuoso known for his lyricism, artistry, and rare ability to cross seamlessly between classical, jazz, and folk traditions. Influenced by his heritage as the son of a Korean immigrant, he brings a global perspective to his music that resonates with audiences worldwide. A Global Music Award medalist and Schilke Performing Artist, Northcutt has performed with ensembles as diverse as Mannheim Steamroller, The Blues Brothers Reunion Band, Critical Mass Big Band, the Seattle Symphony Chamber Orchestra, and the Tacoma Symphony, while also serving for nearly 30 years as principal cornetist of the internationally recognized Tacoma Concert Band.

His international performances include featured appearances in Canada, South America, and across Europe — from guest soloist roles with the Denis Gautier Big Band in France to tours of Ireland with the Tacoma Concert Band and his own 2019 solo recital tour, which included a performance at the Royal Irish Academy of Music. In July 2025, Northcutt appeared as guest soloist with the Miami Symphony Orchestra before an audience of more than 11,000.

Northcutt launched his recording career with the single All Is Waiting (2020), released on the anniversary of 9/11 as a personal artistic statement. He followed with the internationally acclaimed Tonada del Cabrestero (2021), which reached audiences in over 35 countries and led to his first full-length album, Tonada. This project fused Venezuelan folk traditions with American influences, showcasing collaborations with leading Venezuelan musicians. His second album, Moliendo Café (2024), builds on that vision, featuring standout tracks such as Papillon and Apure en un Viaje. The album includes collaborations with Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated artists Justo Morao, German Landaeta, Domingo Pagliuca, and Edward Ramírez, affirming his commitment to exceptional artistry. His versatility also extends to work with lo-fi artist Davide Perico, contributions to video game and film scores, and ongoing collaborations with international producers.

Beyond performance and recording, Northcutt is a dedicated educator and advocate for the brass community. He has presented clinics and masterclasses across North America and internationally for organizations including the International Trumpet Guild, the Rafael Méndez International Brass Festival, and the Washington Music Educators Association. His insights have also been featured on leading platforms such as Bob Reeves Brass Podcast: The Other Side of the Bell and Studio HFL.

Morris Northcutt is a Schilke Performing Artist and Clinician, performing exclusively on the Schilke family of trumpets.