Podcast - Syreeta Thompson
David Fogel Interviews
Multi-Instrumentalist
Syreeta Thompson
Syreeta Thompson is an award-winning instrumentalist, music executive, educator, creative visionary, and cultural advocate whose work exists at the intersection of music, entertainment, education, wellness, and social impact. Known professionally as the “Trumpet Lady,” Thompson has built a distinctive career as a multi-instrumentalist, performer, music supervisor, producer, mentor, and advocate for women and young people pursuing careers in music. Her artistry is rooted in innovation, musicianship, and a commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation of creators.
Thompson is the Founder and Executive Director of Lady Trumpet Inc., a minority-led nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to music education, mentorship, internships, apprenticeships, scholarships, and professional development for students and emerging creatives from underrepresented communities. Through Lady Trumpet, she has developed initiatives connecting young musicians with educational institutions, industry professionals, and real-world career opportunities. Her commitment to music education includes the Trumpet Lady Scholarship Presented by the Grammy Museum, supporting young women pursuing opportunities through Grammy Camp, as well as advocacy and support for instrumental music education through initiatives connected to the Cicely Tyson Instrumental Music Program at Lincoln Center.
Thompson also serves as a Governor of the Recording Academy’s New York Chapter, placing her within the leadership body representing music professionals and helping shape conversations surrounding the future of recorded music and the music industry. As an artist, Thompson continues to push beyond traditional genre boundaries. Her forthcoming creative body of work, Legacy in Motion, reflects her philosophy that music can honor the past while simultaneously creating a new future. The project explores jazz, alternative jazz, fusion, reinterpretation, and multi-instrumental performance while highlighting Thompson’s creative sovereignty as an independent artist. The project also connects to her broader multimedia vision, including the documentary project Blow Up Horn, which explores the cultural significance, history, musicianship, and enduring power of the trumpet.
Thompson is also the creative force behind Grace Notes, an initiative celebrating women musicians both onstage and behind the scenes. The movement creates community, visibility, mentorship, and professional opportunities for female musicians across multiple disciplines and instruments.
Please enjoy this long-format conversation between David Fogel (CEO, The Symphonina Foundation) and Syreeta.