Omar Lateef, a highly accomplished musician, and educator well-versed in classical and jazz music, presently holds the roles of Teaching Assistant Trumpet Professor, the University Brass Choir Director, and Area Coordinator for Winds, Brass, and Percussion at the Wertheim School of Music at Florida International University (FIU) in Miami, FL.
Since 2018, he has served as a Trumpet Performing Specialist with the Nu Deco Ensemble and is the lead trumpet player of the Paradise Big Band associated with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.
Before these roles, Lateef served as the Music Director for Carnival Cruise Line from 2011-2018 and as a sideman from 2008-2011. Between 2003-2007, he showcased his talents in various classical performances with orchestras such as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the Detroit CIVIC Symphony Orchestra, the Jefferson City Symphony Orchestra, and the Moscow Chamber Orchestra. Lateef was also an occasional substitute of the Carnegie Hall Jazz Ensemble from 2002-2003, directed by Jon Faddis.
Throughout his career, Omar has regularly performed in concert tours and Broadway shows, collaborating with a diverse array of artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, Kurt Elling, Kathleen Battle, Julie Andrews, Arturo Sandoval, Jon Faddis, and many others. His influence extends beyond performances, as he has played a crucial role in guiding his students to prominent positions in the music industry and academia, showcasing his commitment to musical excellence and mentorship.
Lateef holds a Master of Music Degree from the Yale School of Music (2005) and a Bachelor of Music Degree from The Juilliard School (2003).