Stefan Dinkel is a freelance trumpeter and self-taught artist in the Tri-State area, having performed in numerous bands, chamber groups, and orchestras playing music in various styles. He is also a music educator in Westchester County, teaching privately and in public schools.

Dinkel was awarded the National Louis Armstrong Jazz Award in 2019 while studying with trumpeter Ricky Myint and trombonist Don DuPont. Dinkel then received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree at the Conservatory of Music at Purchase College (2019-2025) under the direction of trombonist Jack Schatz and hornist Peter Reit. During that time, Dinkel also studied with renowned trumpeter, composer, and arranger Tony Kadleck, as well as Grammy nominated composer, arranger, and international soloist Graham Ashton. Currently, Dinkel is studying with associate principal trumpet of the West Point Band, Bill Owens. He is also studying at Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College for his certification in Instrumental Music Education.

Dinkel first learned to play on his grandfather’s Besson from the 1930's. A WWII Veteran, Maj. Philip C. Dinkel under the name “Phil Dinnell” was a band leader in the NY area playing with legends like Stan Getz, Jimmy Dorsey, Peggy Lee, Dinah Shore, and Doc Severenson. Stefan plans to follow in his grandfather and teachers’ footsteps as a professional musician, composer, and educator.