HornTrader.com opened for business in 1998 and is owned and operated by Steve Dillard. The Web site was the first of its kind and still the best site to find quality horns, related gear, and information for the discerning trumpeter.
Steve brings extensive professional experience to HornTrader.com. Not only has he spent many years in the trumpet manufacturing industry working with Benge and Calicchio, he is also a very active freelance trumpet player.

As an apprentice to Dominic Calicchio, Steve learned the fine art of brass craftsmanship with hands on experience. At Benge under Zig Kanstul, Steve had many jobs including slide maker, quality controller and shipper.

Throughout the years, he's stayed well informed in the industry both through his association with top leaders of brass technology such as Zig Kanstal, Bob Reeves, Stomvi and his relationships with highly regarded leaders in trumpet performance like Wayne Bergeron (LA Studios), Boyde Hood (LA Phil) as well as the many fine trumpet players Steve has met around the globe. Steve has always had a penchant for retail and at one time was the largest distributor of Reunion Blues gig bags in Southern California.

Since owning and operating HornTrader.com he has come to be one of the primary sellers of Professional pre-owned and vintage horns on the internet. He is well known in many countries throughout the world and his site is visited by thousands each month.

Steve's first love has always been playing trumpet. He maintains a busy playing schedule and has had a professional performance career spanning over 25 years. He currently resides in San Diego County with his wife and two children where he manages HornTrader.com.