Emily Mikesell

Emily Mikesell is an American composer, producer, and trumpet player known for her creative and innovative approach to music. Growing up in a musical family, she was exposed to a wide range of sounds from an early age, which influenced her interest in improvisation. Mikesell's musical journey began when she started playing the trumpet in middle school, and she was particularly drawn to the works of Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Her recent collaboration with saxophonist Kate Campbell Strauss resulted in the duo album *Give Way*, released in January 2025. This album features intricate, layered horn arrangements and showcases Mikesell's ability to craft beautiful melodies.

In her work, Mikesell often explores the intersection of composition and improvisation, using techniques like the "yes, and" ethos from improv comedy to foster creative collaboration. Her music is characterized by its expansive melodies and a deep connection to her instrument, which she describes as feeling "married" to her trumpet. Mikesell's musical influences are diverse, and she has expressed admiration for artists like Robert Fripp and Brian Eno, reflecting her interest in experimental and atmospheric sounds.

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