Playing anything from straight-ahead jazz to acoustic folk to Persian pop to experimental free improvisation, Cade Gotthardt is enjoying a career in Southern California as a successful and increasingly sought-after freelance trumpet player. The young trumpeter has performed at venues throughout California including the Cicada Club, Clifton’s Republic, Belly Up Tavern, The Hotel Cafe, and many more. In his short musical career, Cade has already had the privilege of touring with the hugely popular reggae band, Tribal Seeds, as well as performing alongside other well-known musicians such as Tamir Hendelman, Rashawn Ross, Arturo Sandoval, Andy Martin, Bob Sheppard, and Rana Mansour.

In addition to his career as a freelance performer, Cade is also an aspiring educator. He has served as a coach for many middle schools and high schools across Southern California as well as taught individual trumpet and jazz improvisation lessons.

In 2019, Cade earned his Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies from Long Beach State University, graduating with honors. During his time at LBSU, Cade was a member of the award-winning Concert Jazz Orchestra, the school’s top jazz ensemble, in addition to studying under esteemed LA trumpeter, Kye Palmer.

Outside of school, Cade has received a number of honors recognizing his talent and creativity. Most notably, Cade was selected as a winner for the 2019 Yamaha Young Performing Artists competition, joining the likes of other highly regarded musicians such as jazz pianist Aaron Parks and New York Philharmonic french hornist Leelanee Sterrett. Additionally, Cade has twice been invited to compete in the semifinals of the National Trumpet Competition - both in the Small Trumpet Ensemble and Jazz Solo Divisions.

Yet Cade’s aim as a musician, composer, and ultimately as a human goes far beyond performance and accolades. His passion, rather, is for genuine creativity for the sake of unity and transformation.