I have had the opportunity to know and work with many fine musicians in my life. It would be hard for me to imagine an easier individual to say wonderful things about than Jon Schipper. He is a world-class performer and dedicated teacher. His ability to address any challenge with an 'everybody wins' attitude is unmatched. Jon is a true standout in any crowd.”
-Scott Stewart , Director 1977-2002 Madison Scouts Drum & Bugle Corps
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“Jon Schipper is a consummate performer/musician, teacher, and human being. His trumpet playing is dazzling and powerful, and I've witnessed first-hand his sincere and highly effective teaching.”
-Scott Boerma, Director of bands and Professor of Music, Western Michigan University; Brass Arranger, Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps; Drum Corps International Hall of Fame Member, 2024
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“It was our pleasure to have Jon Schipper as a guest soloist and clinician for our Jazz Ensembles and Concert. Not only is Jon an extremely talented and versatile trumpet player - but he is also a gifted educator with a proven ability to connect with young musicians. As a performer, Jon brings artistry, technical mastery, and an extremely entertaining and authentic sound to the stage. His tone, improvisational creativity and professionalism made him an inspiring presence for my students.
As an educator Jon brings years of experience and talent for engaging all levels of students. He is approachable, patient, and enthusiastic in fostering an environment for young musicians to take risks, and grow in confidence.Inviting Jon Schipper as a guest soloist will not only elevate your ensemble's performance - but also provide your students with a meaningful opportunity to learn and perform alongside an incredible musician. My students still talk about playing with him to this day.”
Guy Gregg and Amy Fuchs, Band Directors, Oak Creek HS (Oak Creek WI)
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Jon Schipper is the real deal, both as a trumpet player and a teacher. During his time working with the kids at River Falls High School and Middle School, he brought an awesome energy to the whole music program. As a player, Jon is just incredibly fun to watch and listen to. He’s wildly talented, and whenever he steps up to take a solo, he absolutely blows the room away. That kind of energy is contagious, and it instantly makes everyone around him want to play better.
What makes Jon so special, though, is how easily he connects with students of all ages. Whether he’s breaking things down for the middle schoolers or jamming with the high schoolers, he just gets them. He treats the kids with respect, and they love him for it. Plus, his knowledge of jazz is next-level. He doesn’t just teach them how to read the notes; he teaches them how to actually feel the music.
Jon has this great knack for reading the room and knowing exactly how to get the absolute best out of an ensemble. He makes rehearsals fun but still pushes the groups to sound their best.
Jon is that rare musician who is both a world-class player and an amazing mentor, and any band program would be incredibly lucky to have him.
Bryan Jaeckel, Instrumental Music Director, River Falls, WI
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“Our son had the great privilege of studying with Jon Schipper for eight years, and the experience was nothing short of transformative. Jon is not only an extraordinary musician but an equally extraordinary teacher and mentor. His technical mastery, deep musical insight, and genuine care for his students make him truly exceptional. Jon’s lessons went far beyond technique—he taught musicianship, discipline, creativity, and confidence. He recognized our son’s potential early on and nurtured it with patience, precision, and encouragement. Under Jon’s guidance, our son developed not only into a skilled and expressive performer but also into a thoughtful, self-assured young artist. The fact that Sturgeon was awarded a full-tuition music scholarship to college is due in no small part to Jon’s dedication and mentorship. Jon has a rare ability to meet students exactly where they are, inspire them to reach beyond what they thought possible, and make the process fun. We are deeply grateful for his influence on our son’s musical journey and personal growth. Simply put, Jon changes lives through his teaching.”
Beth M, parent