Justin Hernandez

*I only accept 5 new students at a time. Send a message before booking so I can place you in the correct level. 

Justin Hernandez is a professional trumpet player and educator with 30 years of experience as a performer and dedicated music teacher. He holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from New Jersey City University, where he refined his artistry and developed a deep commitment to music education.

Throughout his career, Justin has studied with some of the most respected musicians in the industry, including Vincent Penzarella of the New York Philharmonic, Juilliard professor Joe Magnarelli, Broadway veteran Bud Burridge, and Saturday Night Live trumpeter Earl Gardner. These influential mentors helped shape his versatile approach to performance and pedagogy.

As an educator, Justin has worked with students of all ages and skill levels in a variety of settings. His teaching experience includes the New York Summer Music Festival, Wayne Valley High School Marching Band, Cedar Grove High School Marching Band, Montclair Music Studio, Modern Music Academy, Saint Mary’s Catholic School, and his private studio. He is passionate about building strong fundamentals, musical confidence, and stylistic versatility in every student he teaches.

Justin’s performance career includes appearances at world-renowned venues such as Lincoln Center, the Blue Note, Smoke Jazz Club, Smalls, Fat Cat, and the Vans Warped Tour. He has performed alongside celebrated artists including Randy Brecker, Bryan Lynch, Charles McPherson, Earl Gardner, Joe Mosello, Wycliffe Gordon, Jon Faddis, Maria Schneider, and Eddie Palmieri

Combining real-world professional experience with a thoughtful and structured teaching approach, Justin inspires students to develop strong technique, musical expression, and a lifelong love of music.