From the age of 8, LT alumnus Jeff Gaylord ‘81 had a passion for the trombone. This energy has led to his incredible career as a trombonist in the U.S. Navy band, Air Force band and later the Washington Symphonic Brass, where he has had experience playing for prominent political and cultural figures.

“The trombone has been the love of his life ever since he was a young boy,” Jeff’s mother Judy Gaylord said. “We knew that he wanted to pursue music, and he has really worked hard.”

Jeff began to focus on his musical talents at LT where he worked with jazz band director Bob Murray and orchestra director Paul Barber. By junior year, Jeff made the decision to become a musician.

After high school, Jeff went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in music at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign [U of I]. Here he was given the opportunity to study with professionals such as the principle trombonist of Chicago’s Lyric Opera orchestra Ardash Marderosian, and the trombone professor at U of I, Dr. Robert Gray.

After graduating from U of I in 1985, Jeff was set on graduate school at Northwestern, when suddenly a spot opened up for the U.S. Navy band. With the Navy, Jeff performed concerts, tours and ceremonies at the White House, Pentagon and Arlington Cemetery. After four years of playing for the U.S. Navy band, Jeff discovered an open spot with the Air Force band and soon made the transition to play for them.

With the Air Force, Jeff played at six Inaugural Parades, including ones for George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton (twice), George W. Bush and Barack Obama, as well as Margaret Thatcher’s visit to the White House.

“It was all very exciting,” Jeff said. “The most exciting being Obama’s first Inaugural Parade because I was given the chance to be involved in something so historic.”

Jeff retired at the age of 48, but has continued to play with the Washington Symphonic Brass. With this group, he played for Pope Benedict XVI in 2008, and most recently for Pope Francis on April 15, 2015, upon his arrival in the U.S.

“There were just so many people, it was a massive audience,” Jeff said. “It was incredible being a part of something that included the entire city.”

Over the course of 26 years Jeff has enjoyed a wonderful career and the opportunity to pursue his passion, Judy said.

“It’s work, but it’s something I love doing,” Jeff said. “It doesn’t seem like anything less than a joy to do it, and I’m really lucky to be able to make my living doing something that’s as satisfying as being a musician.”