Rachel Spencer

Trumpeter Rachel Spencer is a jazz artist, composer, and educator who has performed nationally and internationally as a bandleader and freelance musician. Her original music blends the melodic language of post-bop with contemporary grooves and modern jazz improvisation, drawing inspiration from the work of musicians like Blue Mitchell, Kenny Garrett, and Roy Hargrove. Spencer's writing balances lyrical melodies, expressive improvisation, and a deep respect for the jazz tradition while remaining distinctly her own. Written over five years—from the beginning of the pandemic through the completion of her Doctor of Musical Arts degree—The Next Right Thing captures Spencer's emergence as a composer and bandleader, documenting the search for an authentic artistic voice during one of the most transformative periods of her life. Featuring seven original compositions, the album reflects on mentorship, imposter syndrome, creative joy, and the musicians who shaped Spencer's artistic life. Inspired by a mentor's enduring advice—"Just focus on doing the next right thing"—the record is ultimately about choosing art over fear, one step at a time. Dr. Spencer is based in Austin, TX USA