Tyler Helms to Mississippi Valley State University

Tyler Helms has been appointed Assistant Professor of Trumpet at Mississippi Valley State University.

Helms, a versatile performer and dedicated music educator, originates from East Texas. Currently, he holds the position of Principal Trumpet for both the Delta Symphony Orchestra and the Corinth Symphony Orchestra; he has also made appearances alongside the Memphis Symphony and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestras. Beyond his orchestral roles, he frequently performs in jazz and commercial ensembles, broadway musical pits, and chamber music collaborations. Helms’ dedication to expanding the musical repertoire is evident in his enthusiasm for contemporary solo works for trumpet. He enjoys exploring works that expand the auditory palette of the trumpet and integrating extended technique into fundamental practice and performance. Concurrently, he maintains his role as one of the most in-demand freelancers in the greater Memphis area.

Parallel to his performing career, Helms is the Assistant Professor of Trumpet at Mississippi Valley State University and oversees a thriving private studio, guiding trumpet students to notable successes in state competitions, festivals, and National Trumpet Competition. Helms co-founded the International Trumpet Guild’s Emerging Professionals Committee dedicated to providing educational and professional development resources globally, with the mission of supporting, educating, and representing the next generation of trumpet players.  He also is the organizer for vendors and sponsors for the Midsouth Trumpet Festival.

Helms completed his doctoral degree in trumpet performance at the University of Memphis, he earned a master’s degree in trumpet performance from Arkansas State University, and a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. Helms expresses deep gratitude to his esteemed mentors: David Spencer, Nairam Simoes, Chris Wilson, Jake Walburn, Stephen Campbell, and Gary Wurtz. (Source: Tyler Helms)