Growing up surrounded by the sounds of jazz and melodies that filled every corner of his home, Roney Jr. found his passion for the trumpet at an early age. Inspired by legendary players like Kenny Dorham, Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, and Lee Morgan, he quickly developed an intense love for the craft. At just 10 years old, his dedication to learning harmony and his eagerness to play led his father to gift him his very first trumpet—a moment that would set the stage for his musical journey.
Since then, Wallace Roney Jr. has graced stages alongside jazz luminaries such as Chick Corea, Jimmy Heath, Lenny White, Buster Williams, and the late Ornette Coleman. A proud graduate of the prestigious Oberlin Conservatory of Music, he continues to captivate audiences at venues across the U.S. and around the globe. Today, Roney Jr. is one of the most sought-after trumpeters in the New York jazz scene, known for his dynamic performances and deep understanding of the genre.
Music runs deep in Roney Jr.’s veins. As the son of renowned trumpeter Wallace Roney Sr. and the universally celebrated pianist Geri Allen, his artistry is both a reflection of his family’s rich musical legacy and a testament to his own extraordinary talent.