Jan discovered the trumpet the summer before fifth grade and fell in love at once. He studied music and business at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, climbed into the Grammy-nominated Jazz Ensemble 1, and had the thrill of sharing the stage with saxophonist Grace Kelly and New York Voices in 2018.
In June 2019, Jan set sail with Norwegian Cruise Lines, performing alongside world-class musicians and guest entertainers like Antonio Solci, Aaron Show, and Lovena Fox. The band delivered three production shows, ballroom/big band sets, and intimate jazz/Latin groups on every cruise—six nights a week—bringing joy to audiences across the seas.
While still in college, Jan played with countless small ensembles across styles in the Chippewa Valley and the Twin Cities, which opened doors to recording and performance opportunities. He spent two summers with Wisconsin’s Music Ambassadors, the Kids From Wisconsin (KFW), and one summer as band coach and conductor under Taras Nahirniak. He especially loved the KFW outreach program “Realize Your Dream,” where he helped lead workshops teaching kids ages 5–15 to dance, play basic percussion, and write music—moments that revealed his deep passion for connecting with young people through music.
Jan co-founded Uncommon Denominator, voted Best Cover Band in the Chippewa Valley 10 years running, and records and performs original music as Janny Trumpet. As a wedding DJ, he creates unforgettable nights for couples and their guests, and he serves as CFO of Eternally Ours Entertainment.
Jan continues to pursue a joyful variety of musical projects—recording, producing, composing, performing, and teaching—bringing music to life wherever he goes.