As trumpet fellow Saul Cirilo begins to start his collegiate studies, he reflects on his time with CMPI. Saul will be heading off to Roosevelt University this upcoming school year, studying with Professor Rebecca Oliverio.
Saul began his musical journey very early on. He first taught himself trumpet in kindergarten before officially learning in second grade by joining his public school band. When he joined the band, he originally wanted to pick up the flute. But he was told there were too many flutes and not enough trumpets. Saul continued to pursue music in high school, choosing to go to The Chicago High School for the Arts. While in high school he joined CMPI, which propelled him into musical growth.
Saul performed with a variety of ensembles throughout his high school career, including the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra (CYSO) Philharmonic Orchestra, CYSO Brass Quintet, Merit School of Music Philharmonic (MSM), MSM Wind Symphony, and the Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) Wind Ensemble. Each ensemble provided new opportunities to develop his musicianship, collaborate with peers, and perform at a high level.
During high school, one person made a lasting impact on him: his private lesson teacher Leah Schuman. Saul described Leah Schuman as someone he could relate to on a personal level. She regularly offered encouragement and advice. Her guidance led her to becoming his biggest mentor.
Throughout his time with CMPI, Saul was given many opportunities that have left a lasting impact on him. Participating in Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Esteban Batallán trumpet masterclass stands out as one of his favorite memories. Saul states it was surreal being able to work with someone so inspirational.
The countless opportunities Saul was offered led to some of his proudest accomplishments. For the past two years Saul has been accepted into the Equity Arc Pathways Ensembles. In 2025, he participated in the Equity Arc Pathways orchestra alongside members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. This spring, he participated in the Equity Arc Pathways Wind Symphony alongside professional wind band musicians. For both events, he described how meaningful it was for him to meet fellow young musicians from across the country.
Another accomplishment Saul attributes to CMPI is attending university. Saul was awarded a full ride scholarship to attend Roosevelt University. He explains how much emotional and financial support CMPI offered during the stressful college audition process. He says he would not have been able to audition for a number of colleges without the help of CMPI. Thanks to CMPI, he is excited to become the first member of his family to attend college.
As he looks ahead to college, Saul encourages future CMPI fellows to make the most of every opportunity they receive. “Take advantage of all the opportunities,” he says. “Not everyone is fortunate enough to have these experiences, so make the most out of them.” That mindset has guided Saul throughout his musical journey and will continue to serve him well as he begins his exciting new chapter at Roosevelt University.
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