Trevor Pitts is a native of Springfield who came to find his passion in percussion at the age of 10 while visiting different churches in the New England area. In his early years he began taking lessons and guidance from legendary musician/percussionist Billy Arnold. Not only did Billy teach him about technique & musicianship but to always strive to do your best no matter what with a great attitude. After years of practice and playing he went on to accompany in numerous bands & ensembles in various genres such as The Charles Majid Greenlee Jazz Ensemble, Ethel Lee, The Jus Us Band, John Hanifin Band & a host of many singers, groups & poets. He also has been a member and musician for St. Johns Congregational Church for the past 17 years. His influences include drummers Teddy Campbell, Stanley Randolph, Sonny Emory, Richard Bailey, Buddy Rich, Philly Jo Jones, Dennis Chambers and many more. Today he continues to work to inspire people just as those that came before did for him.

Rick Marshall has been a force on the Springfield music scene for more than 30 years. He has toured the country with Matt “Guitar” Murphy of the Blues Brothers fame, and played and recorded internationally with numerous renowned musical groups. Rick teaches drumming and drumming history, leads drumming workshops throughout New England and leads several of CMSS Community Partnership programs.

Joe Velez is considered one of the primary exponents of Latin Jazz in Western Massachusetts. Joe is a gifted pianist, composer, and arranger and has played extensively throughout New England with many major Latin ensembles.

Jason Arnold has played since he was 6 years old, having studied with his father, CMSS faculty member Billy Arnold. Jason performs with rhythm and blues and rock groups throughout the Northeast. In 2010 he was honored for his work with area children as a recipient of a Key Player Ambassador Award and directs many of our Community Partnership programs throughout Springfield.