Steven Bernstein (musician)

Steven Bernstein (born October 8, 1961) is an American trumpeter, composer, and arranger who is active in the jazz and experimental music scenes. He is known for his work with Levon Helm, Medeski Martin & Wood, and numerous other artists across a wide range of genres.

Bernstein grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and began playing trumpet at a young age. He moved to New York City in the late 1970s and quickly became involved in the downtown music scene. He is known for his versatility and ability to blend different musical styles, drawing influences from jazz, funk, klezmer, Latin music, and more.

He leads several ensembles, including Sex Mob, an instrumental quartet known for its genre-bending covers and original compositions; Millennial Territory Orchestra, a large ensemble that plays arrangements of music from the 1920s and 1930s; and the Hot 9, a New Orleans-style brass band.

Bernstein has released numerous albums as a leader and has appeared as a sideman on countless recordings. He has also composed music for film, television, and theater. His distinctive trumpet playing and innovative arrangements have made him a highly respected figure in contemporary music. He has received critical acclaim for his work and continues to tour and record extensively.