Monica Benson is a Chicago-based trumpet player, educator, and arts leader best known for her high-profile performance work with the Chicago Bears and Chicago Blackhawks. A versatile and in-demand musician, she brings technical excellence and a commanding presence to some of the city’s largest and most visible stages.

Benson’s performance career spans professional sports, festivals, orchestral and commercial music, and musical theater. In addition to her work with the Bears and Blackhawks, she served as the official Bugler for Arlington International Racecourse from 2014–2021 and has appeared alongside national touring acts on festival stages such as Riot Fest. She has also performed with bands and groups including the Brass Band of Battle Creek, The Wonder Years, Gorilla Biscuits, and The Generationals. Benson is a frequent pit musician for musical theater productions throughout the Chicagoland area, including engagements with the Marriott Theatre, Porchlight Music Theatre, and Metropolis Performing Arts Centre. She is also a substitute trumpet player with the Peoria Symphony Orchestra.

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Benson holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from DePaul University. She also formerly taught private trumpet lessons at the Merit School of Music.

In addition to her performance work, Benson is an accomplished arts administrator, having held positions as Director of Education and Community Engagement at the Chicago Sinfonietta and Executive Director of Fulcrum Point New Music Project. Across all roles, she combines a performer’s perspective with strong leadership and organizational expertise, advancing impactful musical experiences for diverse audiences throughout Chicago.