Steve Helmbold

Steve Helmbold began playing trumpet at age eight, inspired by one of his early musical heroes, New Orleans jazz great Al Hirt. He remained active in school music programs through high school, including playing in the marching band. At 21, he left his native Ohio for Los Angeles to pursue a career in music. There, he spent eight years at the legendary Troubadour, working his way from bartender to manager, all while soaking in the venue’s eclectic and inspiring live performances. While studying at West LA College, a classmate introduced Steve to the reggae rock band Ros Interpretation—best known for their song “Echoes of Home.” That opportunity led to a five-month Canadian tour and many other musical adventures. Later, a temp assignment brought him to NAMM, where he was hired full-time and worked in show registration for eight years. After NAMM, Steve focused on teaching music through Take Lessons. Since 2024, he has proudly served as a volunteer docent at NAMM’s Museum of Making Music, sharing his lifelong love of music with visitors of all ages.