On this episode we feature a rising star in the trombone firmament, Melissa Gardiner! A truly soulful and exciting trombonist, composer, bandleader, and educator who the great Curtis Fuller describes in this way: "technically creative and emotionally powerful. Her improvisation is inspiring and motivating for the listener, and she draws you in with a raw expression that directly relates to life experience." I think that sums it up quite well!

In jazz, we all search for a recognizable persona that is all our own, that is the mission. Melissa has done that already and has a limitless future ahead of her. Join me as we hang out and discuss all aspects of her development, influences, lead playing concepts and lots more!

Here's Melissa's website: https://www.melissamaymusic.com/ And here is a couple of the videos we discuss:

Melissa Gardiner In Her Own Words:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIy-qJpKN0o

"Bump" from "Empowered"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1RiO5VTrwQ

Vulfpeck, Live at Madison Square Garden:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rv4wf7bzfFE&t=3072s