Efraim Trujillo

Efraim Trujillo is an American jazz saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and producer. His work, at the intersection of jazz, blues, soul, and Latin, has earned him numerous Edison nominations.

Born in Lynwood, California, Efraïm began playing the clarinet at the age of six before dedicating himself fully to the saxophone. He earned his master's degree with distinction at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam and explored the essence of the blues. Throughout his diverse career, Trujillo has collaborated with ensembles such as The Ploctones, Fra Fra Sound, New Cool Collective Big Band, and The Preacher Men. He has performed at leading international festivals, including the North Sea Jazz Festival and the Tokyo Jazz Festival. As a bandleader, composer, and producer, he leads The Preacher Men and Efraïm Trujillo IV. He also founded the Amsterdam Funk Orchestra, which he led for over ten years. His work has been nominated for several Edison Awards; in 2019, he and The Preacher Men received the Edison Audience Award for their album "Blue."

Trujillo loves to share his experience, philosophy, and knowledge with a younger generation. “In our lessons, we work on sound, embouchure, technique, rhythm, and harmony, but always in connection with real music”, he says. “I like lessons to be interactive: the students play a lot, we listen together, we analyse recordings from the past and focus on new creations. We draw inspiration from great saxophone players such as Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, Hank Mobley, John Coltrane, Sonny Stitt & Cannonball Adderley. They are important references for understanding jazz language, sound, and phrasing. Depending on the students’ goals, we also listen to contemporary and modern players. Ultimately, I want to give students effective tools for a lifelong musical journey. That includes learning how to listen & enjoy music, how to practice the instrument and how to develop your own musical identity. I want my students to leave the lessons feeling inspired and keep discovering music on their own.”