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Q&A WITH HERB SMITH: A LIFE OF MUSIC, TEACHING AND ROCHESTER

Learn more about Herb Smith’s experience as a trumpeter, conductor and educator, and how Rochester’s music scene and community inspire his work.


Herb Smith, third trumpet with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra

Musician Herb Smith has spent decades shaping Rochester’s vibrant music scene. From his early days at the Eastman School of Music to his multifaceted career as a trumpeter, conductor, composer and educator, Herb has found inspiration in Rochester’s rich musical culture and community. Read more about how his passion for music, teaching and the outdoors intertwines with life in Greater Rochester.

 

Q: First, tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do.

A: My name is Herb Smith and I’m a musician in every sense of the word. I play trumpet, conduct orchestras and jazz bands, compose music and perform with my brass quintet, Gateways Brass Collective, traveling across the country. I also play solos with orchestras, am part of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and lead my jazz trio, The Freedom Trio. Music is my life, and I’m immersed in every aspect of it.

 

Q: Did you grow up in Rochester?

A: No, I grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, and came to Rochester to attend Eastman School of Music. I’ve been around Eastman’s halls for over 30 years now. After college, I got a job with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, met my wife here and ended up staying. Her family and the people of Rochester made it feel like home.

 

Q: What’s the most fulfilling part of what you do?

A: The variety. One day I’m playing with the Rochester Philharmonic for a Pops concert, the next I’m performing with my trio at a Martin Luther King celebration. I also travel to conduct orchestras or play at events. Each aspect of my career brings its own excitement and fulfillment. Playing the trumpet, though, is my home base—it’s what I’ve done since I was 9 years old.

 

Q: Did you ever imagine your passion for the trumpet would open so many doors?

A: Honestly, no. I never had a 10-year plan or set goals like people often suggest. I simply loved playing the trumpet and dedicated myself to it. That love has opened doors to conducting, traveling the world and countless other opportunities. It’s all come from following my passion and joy for music.

 

Q: How has the Rochester community supported you?

A: Rochester’s musical culture, anchored by the Eastman School of Music, is incredible. There’s a high level of musicianship here, which raises the bar for everyone. Whether it’s school music programs, the philharmonic or local gigs, the community values and supports quality music. Being surrounded by this environment has helped me grow and stay inspired.


The mix of urban and natural environments sparks creativity and inspires my music. The people here are another source of inspiration—they’re what make this city unique.

Q: Do you have a mentor or someone who shaped your journey?

A: I’ve had several mentors at different stages of my life. My trumpet teacher, Barbara Butler, was a major influence, as was my father-in-law, who was a pastor. Another important mentor was Jerry Cowlet, who was another teacher who helped shape my trumpet playing. I’ve always believed that when a student is ready, the teacher will appear. At this stage in my life, though, I’m focused on becoming my own mentor and continuously striving to reach new peaks.

 

Q: Outside of music, do you have any other passions?

A: Yoga is a big part of my life. I practice four or five times a week, usually early in the morning. It’s the one time of day I have complete autonomy, and it helps me stay grounded. I also love grilling and cooking, especially during the warmer months, when I can experiment with fish, veggies and other dishes on the grill.

 

Q: How does the Greater Rochester area inspire you?

A: Rochester offers so much variety. I love city night walks with my daughter, exploring places like Corbett’s Glen and Abraham Lincoln Park, and meditating by the water. The mix of urban and natural environments sparks creativity and inspires my music. The people here are another source of inspiration—they’re what make this city unique.

 

Q: What’s one word you’d use to describe Greater Rochester?

A: Variety. From the food and music to the hiking trails and cultural events, there’s a little bit of everything here. Excellence would be another—there’s a high standard in so many aspects of life here.

 

Q: How do you see Greater Rochester evolving?

A: The city is growing in exciting ways, like the redevelopment of the Inner Loop, which has reconnected parts of the community. There’s a lot of potential for Rochester to continue building on its strong foundation of arts, culture and community.

Herb Smith playing the trumpet for the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra
Herb Smith taking a selfie with his class

 

Herb Smith is Greater ROC’s January 2025 Champion Spotlight. If you’d like to be a Champion for Greater ROC and share your story with us, or know someone who should, reach out to us at begreaterroc@gmail.com or send us a direct message on Instagram. And while you’re there, give us a follow to stay connected to the nine-county Greater ROC region.


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