Curtis Taylor is a dynamic presence in Jazz, excelling as a performer, composer, and educator. Growing up in Bedford, Ohio, he began playing the trumpet at an early age. Inspired by concerts he attended while in middle and high school, Taylor committed to a career in Jazz, honing his craft under the tutelage of his mentors at Michigan State and Rutgers University.

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Taylor‘s artistry has graced many stages worldwide. From iconic venues like the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., the Apollo Theater & Dizzy’s Club in New York City, to international festivals like The North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands and the San Javier Jazz Festival in Spain. He has also performed and recorded with numerous acclaimed artists, such as Billy Childs, James Carter, John Clayton, Patrice Rushen, Rodney Whitaker, Ed Motta, and Cyrus Chestnut. Notably, his work on Gregory Porter's Grammy Award-winning album "Liquid Spirit" earned him high praise. As a leader, he has recorded three albums, and his current release TAYLOR MADE has earned rave reviews from various publications, including features in JAZZIZ and DOWNBEAT, two of the top music magazines in the world.

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In addition to performing, Taylor shares his knowledge and passion for music with students as a clinician & guest artist and has taught for nearly a decade at the collegiate level. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of Iowa. He teaches several courses integral to the program’s curriculum, is the principal organizer for many Jazz area visiting guest artists, and coordinates the UI summer Jazz camp annually.