Jay Villella

Session

Jay Villella is a Pittsburgh-based professional trumpet player and educator known for his versatility and rich performance experience. He has appeared with ensembles such as the Columbus Symphony, Buffalo Philharmonic, Pittsburgh Opera, Erie Philharmonic, Akron Symphony, Youngstown Symphony, River City Brass Band, and many others. A dedicated educator, Jay is an adjunct professor of music at Chatham University and has previously taught at Mercyhurst University.

Jay is a founding member of the Pittsburgh Chamber Brass and has performed baroque trumpet with Chatham Baroque. He has also served on the board of the Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh. Jay earned degrees from the Eastman School of Music and Yale University on full scholarships, studying with James Thompson and Allan Dean, and was awarded the Sidney Mear Trumpet Award and Performer’s Certificate at Eastman. Further studies include fellowships at the Aspen and Norfolk festivals, as well as participation in the Chosen Vale International Seminar.

Committed to service as well as performance, Jay volunteers with Bugles Across America, performing “Taps” at veterans’ funerals. In addition to music, he previously worked as a real estate agent, negotiating nearly $50 million in sales. Jay lives in Pittsburgh with his wife Elise.