Official Biography

A native of the Hudson Valley, Layne Sullivan is a versatile musician whose career spans orchestral and wind band performances, jazz, and commercial studio work. Classically trained on the trumpet since the age of nine, he has broadened his musical skills to include piano, organ, guitar, electric bass, and saxophone, reflecting his belief in the adaptability essential for a well-rounded musician.

As an educator, Layne is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, tailoring his approach to meet the unique needs of each student. He views music as a transformative tool for self-expression, enjoyment, and connection, believing in its power to reveal the truest version of oneself. His passion for teaching took root during his time on staff at a Boy Scout camp, where he first discovered his joy for teaching.

A seasoned performer, Layne remains active in the music scene, having premiered numerous student works and performed in a variety of ensembles throughout his collegiate years, including symphony orchestras, wind ensembles, brass ensembles, and brass quintets. He has also served as a student apprentice with the Orchestra of Northern New York on two occasions. His catalog of orchestrations, arrangements, and original compositions is available for purchase. He performs on a Bach Stradivarius B-flat trumpet, an S.E. Shires Q13S C trumpet, and a custom mouthpiece made by master maker Greg Black.

Layne is currently pursuing a master's degree in Trumpet Performance and Literature at the Eastman School of Music. He holds degrees in Music Education and Trumpet Performance from The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. He has had the privilege of studying under esteemed mentors such as Brianne Borden, Andrew McCandless, Wes Nance, and Peter Bellino.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Layne enjoys cooking, reading, gardening, collecting vinyl records, and spending quality time with his family and his fiancée, Ainsley. He also performs locally on piano and bass using a Roland FP-30 electric piano and a Hofner 500/1 Violin Bass. He is certified aquatics instructor through the Boy Scouts of America. His musical influences include Elton John, Paul McCartney, Brian Wilson, Keith Jarrett, Pat Metheny, Phil Smith, Leonard Bernstein, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Gustav Mahler. Layne currently resides in Rochester, New York.

Unofficial Biography

I strongly believe in the development of craft. I find joy in seeking new ways to write and perform music. I want what I produce, musically and otherwise to be the best representation of what I am capable of.

I am a hard core introvert. I prefer to be alone, or in a very small group of people. This could be due to the countless hours I spend in practice rooms, at my desk or at my piano. Don’t be afraid to say hello, though!

I love to absorb all the information I can on the evolution of the music industry, and have an interest in business. From orchestral to commercial performance and production, I love it all!