Jim Rotondi
Trumpeter Jim Rotondi has been a commanding voice on the jazz scene for over two decades, both in New York and on international stages. Known for his warm sound, soulful phrasing, and impeccable swing, Rotondi’s artistry continues to resonate with audiences worldwide as both a leader and a sought-after sideman.
A Montana native raised in a musical family, Rotondi began piano lessons at the age of eight before switching to trumpet at twelve. His passion for jazz was ignited at fourteen after hearing the legendary Clifford Brown. A graduate of the renowned University of North Texas music program, Rotondi won first place in the International Trumpet Guild’s Jazz Trumpet Competition in 1984.
Since moving to New York, Rotondi has performed and recorded with some of the most respected names in jazz. His credits include touring with the big bands of Ray Charles, Lionel Hampton, Toshiko Akiyoshi, and Bob Mintzer, as well as playing in small groups led by Charles Earland, Lou Donaldson, Curtis Fuller, and Joe Chambers.
As a bandleader, Rotondi fronts two distinct projects: a hard-swinging quintet featuring vibraphonist Joe Locke, and an electric ensemble, Full House, which includes pianist David Hazeltine. He is also a founding member of the acclaimed collective sextet One For All, alongside saxophonist Eric Alexander, trombonist Steve Davis, Hazeltine, drummer Joe Farnsworth, and bassist John Webber.
Rotondi’s extensive discography includes numerous acclaimed releases, among them Four of a Kind (2008), Blues for Brother Ray (2009), and 1000 Rainbows (2010) on Posi-Tone Records. He continues to balance a busy schedule of performances, recordings, composition, and teaching. A dedicated educator, he has conducted clinics and workshops at Emory University, the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Camp, and the Stanford Jazz Workshop, and has served on the faculty at the State University of New York at Purchase.
A Selmer artist and clinician, Jim Rotondi remains a vital presence in the modern jazz landscape, bringing his signature sound and commitment to excellence to every performance.
Trumpeter Jim Rotondi has been a commanding voice on the jazz scene for over two decades, both in New York and on international stages. Known for his warm sound, soulful phrasing, and impeccable swing, Rotondi’s artistry continues to resonate with audiences worldwide as both a leader and a sought-after sideman.
A Montana native raised in a musical family, Rotondi began piano lessons at the age of eight before switching to trumpet at twelve. His passion for jazz was ignited at fourteen after hearing the legendary Clifford Brown. A graduate of the renowned University of North Texas music program, Rotondi won first place in the International Trumpet Guild’s Jazz Trumpet Competition in 1984.
Since moving to New York, Rotondi has performed and recorded with some of the most respected names in jazz. His credits include touring with the big bands of Ray Charles, Lionel Hampton, Toshiko Akiyoshi, and Bob Mintzer, as well as playing in small groups led by Charles Earland, Lou Donaldson, Curtis Fuller, and Joe Chambers.
As a bandleader, Rotondi fronts two distinct projects: a hard-swinging quintet featuring vibraphonist Joe Locke, and an electric ensemble, Full House, which includes pianist David Hazeltine. He is also a founding member of the acclaimed collective sextet One For All, alongside saxophonist Eric Alexander, trombonist Steve Davis, Hazeltine, drummer Joe Farnsworth, and bassist John Webber.
Rotondi’s extensive discography includes numerous acclaimed releases, among them Four of a Kind (2008), Blues for Brother Ray (2009), and 1000 Rainbows (2010) on Posi-Tone Records. He continues to balance a busy schedule of performances, recordings, composition, and teaching. A dedicated educator, he has conducted clinics and workshops at Emory University, the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Camp, and the Stanford Jazz Workshop, and has served on the faculty at the State University of New York at Purchase.
A Selmer artist and clinician, Jim Rotondi remains a vital presence in the modern jazz landscape, bringing his signature sound and commitment to excellence to every performance.