Howard Manual Ware, Jr. a native Houstonian. Born in 1957 and grew up in the Kashmere Gardens area of the city. Howard started playing trumpet at the early age of nine years under the direction of Mr. Leon Mitchelson while attending Isaac Elementary School. He showed great potential as a trumpeter at Isaac.

Howard later attended Francis Scott Key Junior High School. While attending Francis Scott Key, he was taught by Mr. Warren Turner. Mr. Turner awarded him the honor of “Most Outstanding Musician.” Mr. Turner acknowledged Howard as being his best student, a fast learner and complemented Howard for always knowing his music. He learned how to improvise while under the direction of Mr. Turner. He continued to improve his skills while performing solos in the marching, concert, and stage bands.

Excited about being a young musician, Howard entered Kashmere High School in 1973 auditioned and became a member of the Kashmere Stage Band. His teacher was none other than the legendary late Mr. Conrad “Prof” O. Johnson. Mr. Johnson was very instrumental in teaching him the necessary skills to develop a very sound and strong foundation in jazz.

At Kashmere, Howard always held the 1st Chair position beginning his very first year. He was a dedicated Drum Major his Junior Year. This position was truly an honor because you had to be appointed by Mr. Conrad O. Johnson. The Kashmere Stage Band was world renowned and won numerous 1st place awards. Their record was 45 1st place awards out of 47 competitions.

Mr. Ware put his trumpet down his Senior year, but his passion for music and his trumpet evolved again while in the military. He performed with a popular jazz and RB group in Washington State called Friends and Strangers during his three year tenure in the United States Military and has continued to play ever since. Howard is currently continuing his studies in jazz with mentor and world renowned trumpet player, Barry Lee Hall, Jr. who directs the Duke Ellington band today. Howard still resides in Houston with his wife and five children.