LOUISVILLE, Ky. — For the past 26 years, Steve Buttleman's bugle has been heard around the world.

In 1996, Steve Buttleman performed at the Kentucky Derby for the very first time and since then, he's never let up. Buttleman is the official bugle player for Churchill Downs.

He begins each day of racing with the National Anthem and prior to each race performs, "Call to Post." He does it all from the iconic Churchill Downs borgata. From his post, Buttleman has a spectacular view.

“When you look out my front door, to my office, and you see the twin spires out there I don’t think there is another officer view like that in the world. So I am very lucky I get to do what I do where I do," Buttleman said. 

Churchill Downs bugler readies at the door of the Borgata

The University of Louisville graduate and Iowa native is a husband, father and grandfather and always grateful to be so closely connected to the history of the Kentucky Derby by preforming for all the people in the stands and watching at home.

“Usually you have 170,000 here plus the millions all over the world tuning in... so it’s a pretty big moment,” he said

Does Buttleman ever get nervous? The trumpeter says, "Yes." But short walks along the infield grass track helps him out pace the jitters.

“I try to be thankful and appreciate the things the Derby has provided.”

In between each rendition of, "Call to Post" Buttleman will hold up in the borgata which is a silo-shaped wooden building standing above the Winner's Circle. Inside there are audio boards, microphones and cables at the ready because throughout many races there are special guest musicians.

Buttleman said his children have always known as a musician.

“My son, when he was in Kindergarten they were asking the kids what their parents did and he said well my mom is a pediatrician but my dad is the bugler at Churchill Downs and I thought well, sooner or later he’ll figure out Mom’s job is more important that Dad’s," he said. "Nonetheless it’s exciting.”