Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexis Shackelford.
Hi Alexis, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My story starts as a kid …a church kid! As a kid who grew up in the church I grew up fully submerged in music and the arts. I started out singing in the sunshine band and praise dancing. Once I started playing the trumpet at school, I was encouraged to bring my trumpet to church and it went from there! Dana McEwen was a saxophone player who played in church and encouraged me to bring my trumpet. He started an orchestra so I also was able to read music along with developing my musical ear. Eventually, I went to high school and served as section leader and I also played in our jazz band which strengthened my love for playing by ear. I decided to take my talents to Alabama State University where I majored in music performance. While there, I was able to perform with the ASU Mighty Marching Hornets where we traveled and played many places for many people. After graduating in 2021, I was able to attend more conventions within the Church of God in Christ(COGIC). Playing for COGIC conventions is so fun. Many of the best musicians gather there every year to share knowledge, display talent, and a true love for Christ. After playing for the J.O Patterson Orchestra for a few years, I was blessed to be able to join the onstage band by way of the horn section. After playing onstage a few years I was made the coordinator for the onstage horn section! It was exciting but the job seemed intimidating sometimes! Coordinating horn players with zero practice beforehand and limited time before execution can definitely be a headache, but I learned that I’m more than capable. I was blessed to be a fellow in the RISE orchestra program, a studio intensive program that brings together young musicians, professional studio musicians and industry professionals to experience what its like to record a film score in a world class Hollywood studio(Warner Bros.). This was such an amazing experience and opened my eyes to what’s truly out there for a musician like me. This summer I was able to participate in my first legit live recording for the Church of God In Christ under the direction of Dr. Myron Williams….so cool. I also received my first endorsement through Juicy Earz Music Shop as an emerging artist. I am extremely excited about what’s to come for me.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
OH NOOOO!!! It has been FAR from smooth. Self confidence is something I didn’t have for the longest time. I had a horrible habit of comparing myself to other musicians. I didn’t feel worthy of the opportunities that were coming my way. I also ran into the issue of being a female musician which is so annoying sometimes because playing a male dominated instrument means you have to be the absolute best just to even be considered. Most times when guys hear all female band or female musicians they automatically assume that the sound will be mid or basic. I hate this because it literally means a judgement is made before a note is even played. Another struggle I dealt with was being an auxiliary musician. Trumpet, saxophone, trombone, and other auxiliary players often struggle with getting what the other musicians are getting. I lost count of how many times I came to a gig and there was not a microphone, in-ear monitor, nor a sound wedge set up for the horn players but the drummer, piano, and guitar players are sitting back waiting to start the show. These are the times I’ve had to open my mouth and communicate my needs. Not rudely, but firmly. While it’s been a slower process, I can now say that 9/10 when I go somewhere I can get everything I need with no problem.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a elementary music educator/choir director at Garrett Elementary in Montgomery, AL. I am also a professional freelance trumpet player. I play for all types of events (weddings, birthdays, church, etc) and I also do studio work. I am so proud of my resilience and my drive. I am a go getter and even when I don’t feel worthy I still somehow find myself going for it! What sets me apart from others is my big heart. Regardless of all that I’ve gone through I never let it make me bitter!
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I love love love my mommy. I wouldn’t be where I am without her. She may have not had the answers to everything or knew the ins and outs to this music stuff but she’s always pushed me to go for the desires of my heart. She’s always encouraged me to get out of Arkansas and travel and meet new people. She is one of the main reasons that I want to be successful. I want to be able to take care of her the way she took care of my siblings and I.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lexis_shack?igsi=MXN0NnptMG5lcTF1dA%3D%3D&utm_-source=qr
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/alexis.shackelford.73
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@shackontrumpet
