Sometimes things just click, which is exactly what happened for South Jordan resident Jack Hales. He practiced and trained with the Caleb Chapman’s Soundhouse long enough to be part of an unforgettable trip to New York. That alone is remarkable, but getting to play with a world-renowned fellow trumpeter took things to a whole other level.

“During this summer, I had the opportunity to play at the most esteemed jazz performance center in the world, the Lincoln Center, located in New York City,” Hales said. “I also play the trumpet and even had the opportunity to play a duet with Wayne Bergeron.

“I managed to meet him via a highly esteemed program in Utah called Caleb Chapman’s Crescent Superband [or Soundhouse]. This band was traveling to play with him and I was invited to play with them as well. I was invited because of my previous repertoire in music and some connections I had within the band.”

Hales has been playing the trumpet since sixth grade, so for about seven years. He hadn’t been with the Caleb Chapman’s Soundhouse long before this remarkable opportunity came along. It was just about six months or so, but that was still long enough for a very good experience.

The Caleb Chapman’s Soundhouse was founded by Chapman in 1998 in American Fork. Their website claims they are the most award-winning youth program in the nation. They have created a successful formula for training young musicians. Musicians ages 10 to 18 are grouped into bands based on the interest of the musicians. Each band meets for a weekly 2-hour rehearsal. They then showcase their work at a professional level. Many Soundhouse graduates receive scholarships and can be found working with popular bands.

The Lincoln Center consolidated complex was built in 1962. It was founded to make the performing arts accessible to the masses as well as to elites. It also marked New York City as the cultural capital of the United States. When realizing he would have the privilege of playing in the revered Lincoln Center, Hales understood its significance. To him, it is the most esteemed jazz performance center in the world. 

Likewise, Hales considers Wayne Bergeron as one of the best musicians of this generation. Bergeron is an American trumpeter who was born in 1958 in Connecticut then grew up in California. He started playing the French horn and thanks skilled teachers for fine-tuning and molding his musical talent. He soon caught the ear of celebrated musicians and film makers. He is currently one of the most sought-after musicians in the world. 

Bergeron’s list of recording credits is chock full of famous singers including Ray Charles, Barbra Streisand, Beyonce and many more. He has worked on over 500 very successful TV and motion picture soundtracks. Having a connection with Bergeron will put South Jordan resident Hales on the right track.