A native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Chief Musician Noel Marcano was immersed in music from a very young age. His parents, Carmen and Frankie, were both deeply involved in the musical life of their community as members of a Christian band that frequently toured the island. Life on the road meant long rehearsals and late-night travel, but young Noel was always along for the ride. His parents would bring blankets and toys to help him stay comfortable and entertained during these journeys. Growing up in this musical environment left a lasting impression. Frankie played drums and Carmen was the lead vocalist, and Noel absorbed every moment – quietly watching, listening, and developing a keen awareness of what life in the music world could be.
That early exposure blossomed into a true passion when Noel discovered the clarinet. At the age of 12, he began formal music training at the prestigious Escuela Libre de Música de San Juan. This school is known throughout Puerto Rico and beyond for producing top-tier classical musicians, many of whom have gone on to distinguished careers. Among its notable alumni are Ricardo Morales, Principal Clarinet of The Philadelphia Orchestra; Pedro Díaz, English hornist at the Metropolitan Opera; and the renowned Figueroa Brothers, also based in New York City. Surrounded by talented peers and inspiring mentors, Noel’s formative years at the Escuela Libre laid a strong foundation for what would become a lifelong dedication to the clarinet and to music performance.
After graduating from high school, Chief Marcano continued his musical journey at the Conservatorio de Música de Puerto Rico. There, he studied under the esteemed Professor Kathleen Jones and earned a bachelor’s degree in clarinet performance. His undergraduate years were filled with opportunities to grow and perform. He regularly played with semi-professional ensembles across the island, gaining valuable experience in a variety of performance settings. On occasion, he even substituted with Puerto Rico’s leading orchestra – the Orquesta Sinfónica de Puerto Rico – further cementing his place among the island’s talented young musicians.
In 2005, Chief Marcano was accepted into the highly respected College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, one of the top conservatories in the United States. There, he studied under world-renowned clarinetist Richie Hawley and earned his master’s degree in clarinet performance. Professor Hawley’s rigorous approach to the orchestral repertoire and audition preparation introduced Chief Marcano to a new level of discipline and professionalism. Under his mentorship, Chief Marcano learned how to navigate the highly competitive world of orchestral auditions. His dedication paid off quickly. After only a handful of auditions, he received a final callback that would profoundly change his career path and his life.
In 2009, Chief Marcano won a position with the United States Coast Guard Band, realizing a childhood dream of serving as a professional musician in one of the nation’s premier military ensembles. His tenure in the band has been marked by consistent excellence, artistic growth, and national recognition. In 2014, he was honored with the Colonel Finley R. Hamilton Outstanding Military Musician Award for excellence in both solo and ensemble performance – a testament to his talent, leadership, and dedication. He has also received the Coast Guard Achievement Medal, the Commandant’s Letter of Commendation, and numerous other distinctions throughout his career. Most recently, he was appointed Principal Clarinet of the Coast Guard Band, a prestigious milestone that reflects his outstanding musicianship and deep commitment to his craft.
As the United States Coast Guard Band celebrates its centennial in 2025, Chief Marcano is once again taking center stage. A series of community concerts is planned throughout the year to mark the band’s 100th anniversary, showcasing its rich history and vibrant future. One particularly memorable event took place during a Memorial Day remembrance in Weymouth, Massachusetts. There, Chief Marcano performed a dazzling rendition of Luigi Bassi’s Concert Fantasy on Themes from Verdi’s Rigoletto, captivating the audience with his expressive playing and technical brilliance.
Outside his musical achievements, Chief Marcano finds joy and balance in family life. The Marcano household is as musical as it is warm. His wife, Liz Melisa Trinidad, is also an accomplished musician. She holds a master’s degree in flute performance from Boston University’s College of Fine Arts and currently runs a life design and growth business. Their son Armando, 11, is an avid piano player who also enjoys playing soccer, while their daughter Annabelle, 8, studies piano and is a dedicated ballet dancer. The family shares a deep bond rooted in creativity, discipline, and joy.
When he’s not on stage or rehearsing, Chief Marcano enjoys the thrill of pick-up basketball. Known for his sharpshooting skills, he’s earned a playful reputation among his NBA colleagues, who jokingly warn each other never to leave him open on the perimeter – he’ll “drain” those shots all day long. He is quick to clarify that his “NBA” title refers to the Noon-Time Basketball Association, not the league you might be thinking of!
Chief Musician Noel Marcano’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. From his musical upbringing in Puerto Rico to his leadership role in one of America’s top military bands, he exemplifies the power of dedication and the joy of sharing music with the world.
