Troy Bell, a gifted guitarist from Piscataway, has been immersed in music for as long as he can remember. Growing up in a musical household with a father who is a music teacher, Troy’s early exposure to music theory and piano set the stage for his diverse musical journey. His love for music deepened when, at the age of 12, he discovered the guitar—drawn to its versatility and the way it quickly became like "your best friend." Before picking up the guitar, Troy had a passion for acting, performing on Broadway in School of Rock as a pianist. However, once he saw all the guitars on stage, he was hooked. Troy's musical background also includes playing gospel music in church, an influence that continues to shape his sound today.

Now a freshman, Troy describes his musical style as a "melting pot," blending the rich sounds of gospel, R&B, jazz, and rock. His influences are wide-ranging, with guitar legends such as Eric Gales, Wes Montgomery, and Pat Metheny shaping his approach to the instrument. His playing is marked by emotional depth, technical prowess, and a unique fusion of genres that reflects his diverse musical upbringing.

One of Troy's standout moments in his young career came in high school when he performed at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) as part of a program for teens—a blazing experience that left a lasting impact on his musical aspirations. Troy credits Eric Johnson's Cliffs of Dover as the song that first blew him away and inspired him to pursue the guitar. The piece resonated deeply, sparking a passion for the instrument that has only grown since.

Being awarded the prestigious Heart of Jazz (HOJ) Scholarship is a significant milestone for Troy. To him, it means everything—it offers him a glimpse into the future, providing the support and opportunities needed to achieve his dreams. With big goals ahead, Troy aims to hit the road as a touring musician, produce events, perform in Broadway pit bands, and even conduct. He is also looking forward to working with his HOJ mentor, saxophonist Jaleel Shaw, whose guidance will help shape his musical path and hone his skills.

With his sights set high and a drive to succeed, Troy is excited about the future and is confident that the HOJ Scholarship will help propel him toward his aspirations in the music world.

Roberto Cisnero’s mentor is Jaleel Shaw.