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"...Although intense and energetic, Flores filled this piece with a strength and confidence that was never aggressive or intimidating. Sequenza X was performed with prodigious stamina and exemplary consistency – the intonation and tone were as strong at the finish as they had been at the beginning – a difficult piece played with vigor and grace." - Sequenza 21/ 
 

Recognized as one of the leading voices in contemporary trumpet performance, Daniel Flores is a dynamic artist dedicated to expanding the modern repertoire and redefining the instrument’s role in solo and chamber music. His collaborations with composers and musicians worldwide continue to push artistic boundaries, solidifying his place at the forefront of contemporary classical music.

 

A champion of new music, Daniel is an associate member of Brightwork newMusic, a Los Angeles-based ensemble known for its fearless programming and innovative interpretations. Recently, he performed the music of Schoenberg Prize-winning composer Helmut Oehring at the historic Villa Aurora, and participated in a landmark concert of Luciano Berio’s complete Sequenze at Tuesday’s @ Monk Space, earning praise from both The Los Angeles Times and The New Yorker.

 

Daniel is also a regular substitute with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, balancing his modernist endeavors with a deep respect for the orchestral tradition.

 

His artistic foundation was shaped by years of study with some of the finest trumpet artists in the world. A dedicated scholar of his craft, Daniel studied at the Chosen Vale Center for Advanced Musical Studies, an elite program led by the storied trumpeter and esteemed educator, Edward Carroll, where he worked alongside some of the most influential trumpeters of our time, including Håkan Hardenberger, Gabriele Cassone, Clément Saunier, and the late Thomas Stevens. He later earned a Corso Speciale certificate from the Istituto Superiore di Studi Musicali Conservatorio (I.S.S.M.) Guido Cantelli in Italy, training under the renowned trumpet soloist Gabriele Cassone, while also serving as an assistant instructor. Daniel holds a Master of Music degree from Wichita State University, where he studied with Dr. David Hunsicker, and continues to refine his artistry through his studies with Håkan Hardenberger.

 

Steeped in the orchestral tradition, Daniel trained with William Scarlett, former Associate Principal Trumpet of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, whose mentorship instilled in him a deep understanding of high-level brass playing.

 

Before turning his focus to contemporary and classical music, Daniel’s early years were shaped by jazz. Just one year after picking up the trumpet at age 15, he was performing in his local college jazz ensemble. Within three years, he was playing alongside Byron Stripling, Jon Faddis, Chris Vadala, Bobby Shew, the Thad Jones Orchestra, and the Count Basie Orchestra—experiences that left an indelible mark on his musical identity and continue to influence his artistry today.

 

An impassioned educator, Daniel serves on the faculty at Butler Community College and maintains an active teaching schedule across the United States. For the 2024–25 season, he will present a series of masterclasses and solo recitals nationwide, sharing his expertise with the next generation of musicians.

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