Aaron Bertram, American trumpet player

Aaron Bertram, a name synonymous with the vibrant, horn-driven energy of third-wave ska and the imaginative world of children's entertainment, was born on April 3, 1981, in Lubbock, Texas. His diverse career journey showcases a remarkable blend of musical talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep passion for education, particularly in the realm of music and movement for young learners.

The Suburban Legends Legacy: A Ska Pioneer

Aaron's musical journey first gained widespread recognition as the original trumpet player for the acclaimed third-wave ska band, Suburban Legends. From the band's inception in 1998, he was an integral part of their sound and stage presence, contributing significantly beyond just his instrumental prowess. Fans will recall his energetic backing vocals that added depth to many tracks, but perhaps even more iconic was his role in originating the band's signature, high-energy choreography. This visual spectacle became a hallmark of Suburban Legends' live performances, setting them apart in the ska scene and cementing their reputation as captivating entertainers. While Aaron initially stepped away from the band in May 2005 to embark on a new venture with his wife, Rachel Charest, focusing on their burgeoning company, Kids Imagine, his connection to Suburban Legends remained strong. He made a memorable return for a special benefit performance on November 29, 2005, at Huntington Beach High School, honoring the Ryan Dallas Cook Memorial Fund. By the summer of 2009, Aaron was frequently joining Suburban Legends for local shows, and his enduring commitment to the band saw him officially listed as an active member once more by November 2010, much to the delight of their dedicated fanbase.

Beyond the Trumpet: Vocal Contributions and Diverse Projects

While primarily known for his trumpet skills, Aaron Bertram's vocal talents also shone through in various Suburban Legends recordings. He notably lent his voice to the band's lively cover of the beloved "Gummi Bears theme song," bringing a playful charm to the track. His vocal contributions can also be heard on the band's unique rendition of "Rose Tint My World" and on the song "Powerful Game," featured on their album Rump Shaker. These instances highlight his versatility and willingness to explore different facets of his musical artistry within the band's eclectic sound.

Kids Imagine Nation and KINTV: Inspiring the Next Generation

Aaron's entrepreneurial spirit truly blossomed with the creation of Kids Imagine alongside his wife, Rachel Charest. This venture marked a significant pivot towards children's entertainment and education. Prior to this, he had already gained valuable experience teaching music and movement to preschool students in Orange County, California, through his own program aptly named "Little Rockstars." This foundational work clearly laid the groundwork for his future endeavors. Today, Aaron is at the forefront of the children's music group Kids Imagine Nation, actively writing engaging and educational music alongside Rachel Charest and Vince Walker. A testament to his innovative vision, Aaron launched KINTV in March of 2020, an online streaming service specifically designed for children's entertainment and arts education. This timely initiative, arriving just as the world navigated new ways of learning and connecting, positioned him as a pioneer in delivering quality educational content directly to homes. Through KINTV, Aaron continues to perform and teach music, blending his performance skills with his passion for nurturing young minds.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aaron Bertram

Who is Aaron Bertram?
Aaron Bertram is an American musician and educator, widely recognized as the trumpet player for the third-wave ska band Suburban Legends and a key member of the children's music group Kids Imagine Nation. He's also the founder of the children's streaming service KINTV.
When and where was Aaron Bertram born?
He was born on April 3, 1981, in Lubbock, Texas.
What instrument does Aaron Bertram play?
He is primarily known for playing the trumpet.
What bands has Aaron Bertram been a part of?
Aaron Bertram was a founding member and trumpet player for the third-wave ska band Suburban Legends. He is also a current member of the children's music group Kids Imagine Nation.
Did Aaron Bertram leave Suburban Legends?
Yes, he initially left in May 2005 to focus on his company, Kids Imagine. However, he returned for a benefit show in November 2005 and has been performing with the band at local shows since summer 2009, becoming an official member again by November 2010.
What are some of Aaron Bertram's contributions to Suburban Legends?
Beyond his trumpet playing, he contributed backing vocals and originated the band's distinctive stage choreography. He also performed lead vocals on select tracks like their cover of the "Gummi Bears theme song" and "Powerful Game."
What is Kids Imagine Nation?
Kids Imagine Nation is a children's music group co-founded by Aaron Bertram with his wife, Rachel Charest. They write and perform original children's music focused on entertainment and education.
What is KINTV?
KINTV is an online streaming service for children's entertainment and arts education, launched by Aaron Bertram in March 2020. He performs and teaches music through this platform, making learning accessible and engaging for young audiences.
What was Aaron Bertram's "Little Rockstars" program?
"Little Rockstars" was Aaron's music and movement program designed for preschool students in Orange County, California, where he previously taught before dedicating his efforts to Kids Imagine.