Caylee Volker
Trumpet

When and why I started playing
I started playing piano when I was about 10, but did not really take a liking to it because I was being taught by my Dad. My Dad is a great pianist, but at the age, I just thought it was uncool. When I was in fifth grade—around age 11—is when my school started looking for members to be a part of the band. I found out I could miss class every so often to go to band, so I thought it was a good opportunity for me. I had my heart set on playing clarinet because all the girls were doing it. My Dad, however, had a trumpet. He convinced me that the clarinet has a lot more fingerings than the trumpet, which had three, would be easier. I then started to play trumpet, and I was actually pretty good and it felt right. I took some lessons, and the rest is history. Fun fact: I played in my first band with (current TDP bandmates) Walt and Carrie when I was 12. Walt gave me a couple notes to play on “Mustang Sally,” and I waited all night long just to play those notes at a show at a bar. It was the best thing ever. I am very thankful for my Dad and Walt for giving me that opportunity.

What triggered my interest in music
As long as I can remember, my Dad has been playing piano and keyboard in bands. He would take me with him to all the local shows and I would see what he did made people so happy. My Mom always used to sing to me and was also a huge supporter of music.

Favorite Neil Diamond song and why
“The Story of My Life.” Everyone gets different meanings in songs, but to me it is very romantic and honestly reminds me of my relationship with my husband. I could not imagine my life without him.

Favorite non-Neil artist
Stevie Wonder

Day job
Patient representative for an orthopedic surgeon.

Dream job

My dream would be to travel the world and play music. I have had opportunities to go to different states and different countries to play and I absolutely loved it.

First concert ever attended, where and how old I was
I probably saw some concerts before, but the one that I can remember clearly is my parents taking me to see Tower of Power. It was around the time I started to play trumpet, so about 11 or 12. That was so eye-opening and I thought, wow, I wish I could do that someday.