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Interview with Jazz Trombonist of the Year Michael Dease | Third Coast Trombone Retreat Podcast

Welcome to the Trombone Retreat podcast by the Third Coast Trombone Retreat. In this episode, hosts Sebastian Vera and Nicholas Schwartz welcome distinguished jazz artist Michael Dease, who was named Downbeat Magazine's 2025 Trombonist of the Year. They discuss Dease's journey in music, highlights from his career, and his experiences as a multifaceted musician proficient in several instruments. Dease shares insights about his teaching philosophy, his recording projects, and his recent Guggenheim Fellowship, along with his personal anecdotes and favorite gear. Enjoy an engaging conversation filled with wisdom and humor, perfect for any music enthusiast.

Experience JSV Mouthpieces: https://houghtonhorns.com/products/verus-sebastian-vera-tenor-trombone-mouthpiece-verusjsv

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
00:29 Reflecting on the Interview
01:23 Product Promotion and Banter
02:19 Reconnecting with Michael Deese
02:45 Memorable Moments and Bourbon
03:27 Travel Plans and Upcoming Gigs
04:45 Discussing 'City Life' Album
08:27 Musical Journey and Instrument Mastery
18:49 Jazz Education and Career Reflections
31:29 Guggenheim Project and Future Plans
39:52 Sterling Silver Mouthpiece
40:26 The Allure of Precious Metals in Music
41:24 Exploring Different Mouthpiece Materials
43:06 The Sterling Silver Mouthpiece Experiment
44:14 Spontaneity in Music and Life
44:32 Custom Mouthpieces and Their Impact
45:50 Rapid Fire Questions
46:24 Reflecting on Personal and Musical Growth
54:05 The Future of Jazz Trombone
56:02 The Influence of Horror Movies on Music
57:42 The Importance of Trust in Teaching
01:00:23 Closing Thoughts and Farewells

Also introducing special features with Patreon: www.patreon.com/tromboneretreat

Learn more about the Trombone Retreat and upcoming festival here: linktr.ee/tromboneretreat

Hosted by Sebastian Vera - @js.vera (insta) and Nick Schwartz - @basstrombone444 (insta)

Produced and edited by Sebastian Vera

Music: Firehorse: Mvt 1 - Trot by Steven Verhelst performed live by Brian Santero, Sebastian Vera and Nick Schwartz

Thank you to our season sponsor Houghton Horns: www.houghtonhorns.com

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