Assistant Professor - Trumpet, Jazz Studies, Interim Music Chair
Jason Crafton is Assistant Professor of Trumpet at Virginia Tech and he directs both of the large jazz ensembles. He is also currently serving as Interim Music Chair. Prior to coming to Virginia Tech, he held positions at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, North Central Texas College, the University of Northern Colorado, and in various Dallas-Fort Worth area public schools.
In addition, he has performed with a variety of ensembles including the Roanoke Symphony, Ash Lawn Opera, Dallas Wind Symphony, and Dallas Opera.
(540) 231-6713
jcrafton@vt.edu
242-V Squires (0138)
290 College Avenue
Blacksburg, VA 24061
I enjoy working with my students and colleagues to create meaningful and worthwhile performances and works of art. A group of diverse individuals coming together to create something of value, and the personal relationships that are formed in the process, is very satisfying to me personally and professionally.
I enjoy when students exceed their own expectations. Many people have preconceived notions of their capabilities, I enjoy being able to help a hard working young person realize that they are capable of more than they ever thought possible.
I was convinced I wanted to follow in my father's footsteps and become an engineer, even though I'm not very good at math. My mother, who has a degree in studio art, recognized my lack of passion (and ability) for the subjects related to engineering and encouraged me to pursue a career in music. While many of my family and friends were concerned about my choice to pursue music, she was unwavering in her support. Her realization that my success in life would be predicated on my own hard work and not a specific field of study taught me a powerful lesson about life and the value of the arts. In retrospect my undergraduate degree in music set me up for possible careers in law, medicine, and business (in additional to music), and was one of the best choices of my life. Thanks Mom!
Miles Davis
"In a Silent Way"
Lee Morgan
"Sidewinder"
Duke Ellington
"The Complete Blanton-Webster Recordings"
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
"The Complete Mahler Symphonies"
Bob Dylan
"Freewheelin' Bob Dylan"
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