Biography
Alex Cude is a trumpet player, educator, and emerging audio engineer from Mena, Arkansas. His playing is shaped by the pedagogical traditions of William Adam, combing a warm tone with stylistic flexibility across classical, jazz, and musical theatre settings.
Alex holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Education and Trumpet Performance from Southern Arkansas University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Trumpet Performance at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. At SIU, he serves as a graduate trumpet teaching assistant for the trumpet studio and as a graduate assistant in the university’s recording studio. As a graduate trumpet teaching assistant, he provides instruction to both majors and non-majors and leads supplemental instruction in areas such as sight-reading and orchestral excerpts. As an emerging audio engineer, he has contributed to several production projects, including serving as the audio engineer for the 21st Southern Illinois Music Festival and the upcoming 22nd festival.
As a performer, Alex has played in musical productions including Mary Poppins, Oliver!, Guys and Dolls, and Anything Goes. He has also performed major orchestral works including Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, and Rachmaninov’s 2nd Symphony with the Southern Illinois Symphony Orchestra. His experience also extends to the jazz stage, where he performed alongside guest artist Nathan Warner and international star Jessie J at the First Annual Southern Arkansas University Jazz Festival. He has collaborated with artist and groups such as Phil Smith, Brian Martin’s Mess, and Magnolia Brown.
With a deep commitment to musical growth and collaboration, Alex brings professionalism and artistry to every lesson, rehearsal, and performance. He is currently available for private instruction, and live performances.
Teaching Philosophy
My approach to the trumpet is deeply influenced by the teachings of William “Bill” Adam, whose emphasis on natural sound production and the freedom of breath has shaped my own playing and teaching. I believe that developing a rich, open tone and a free, unrestricted breath is fundamental for every player, regardless of their skill level or musical style.
I believe it is important to create a healthy, positive, and supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to grow both as musicians and as individuals. I strive to foster respect, kindness, encouragement, and enthusiasm in every lesson, helping students build confidence, musicality, and a lifelong passion for their art.
