JEFF PERKINS - creating music that moves the soul, and tells a story.
Born into a musical family in 1963, at the age of five Jeff was given his first cornet for Christmas. The heavily used cornet would be the instrument Jeff would teach himself to play, thus beginning his life-long passion. When his parents recognized his dedication towards practice as well as his growing ability, they bought Jeff his first trumpet. Though a King student model, it was brand new. Throughout the following years, Jeff received numerous awards for his horn playing as well as his artistic talent.
During College, Jeff majored in art and art history with a music minor. Though not taking music full-time, you would never know it due to his constant playing in numerous bands. While at Southern Illinois University, Jeff played in multiple Jazz Combos’ and was the leader for a five-piece group for 3 years. Jeff also played Lead and Solo trumpet for SIU's Studio Jazz Orchestra and Jazz Band. After leaving Carbondale to continue his education, Jeff walked on as soloist for the Western Illinois University Studio Jazz Band, and played in numerous other Jazz Groups. It was during these years that Jeff began to teach himself piano and composition.
After College, Jeff continued to play his horn in Church. It wasn't until this time that he would realize the true joy of playing for completely different reasons. It was also the beginning of his Christian walk. In 1991, Jeff and his wife Lori moved back to their hometown of Moline, IL where Jeff became the Director of Orchestra at the Moline Gospel Temple for 9 years. Having many opportunities to play his trumpet for special events and organizations, Jeff became increasingly aware of the direction God was leading him - into full-time concert ministry. With limited music for solo trumpet at his disposal to perform, Jeff started arranging and orchestrating music for his own concerts, eventually building a studio and producing all his concert backing tracks.
Throughout the 20+ years of concert ministry, Jeff and his family have had the honor and awe inspiring privilege to use the gifts and talents God has given them to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. Having played for many heads of state, Jeff has said, "it has always been an exceptional privilege to honor the men and women of all branches of the military, including fire, police and all first responders." Having played for national ceremonies, and numerous nation-wide events, Jeff is regularly heard on radio and television; including cable and satellite broadcasts in over a 130 countries.
Jeff and his family have made their home in Lynnville, TN since 2005, continuing the “vision” God has given them. With a full-production studio facility located on their property, Jeff has been producing music for a wide range of media and uses, including television and film. Jeff is equally at home scoring for full symphony orchestra, or writing a piece for a small jazz combo; any style, any genre. When one listens to Jeff's music, his sound is unmistakable; "powerful", "majestic", "inspiring", "undeniably moving." Jeff will tell you it is the power of the Holy Spirit. "Music can stir a person's soul like no other medium; I believe it is a gift from God to allow such a stirring." - JP
Jeff plays an Edwards G-II Custom trumpet and Getzen Eterna-895 Flugelhorn exclusively, using only Marcinkiewicz mouthpieces.
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