Michael Leonhart is a New York-based trumpeter, composer, producer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter who has carved a niche for himself, leading his multi-piece Michael Leonhart Orchestra.

On Sunnyside Records, Michael’s new release, titled “The Normyn Suites” is a requiem and celebration, inspired by the life and death of the bandleader’s 15-year-old dog, a female mini dachshund named Normyn. In keeping with the MLO’s eclectic musical palette, the album features several collaborations with Elvis Costello, with contributions by Bill Frisell, Joshua Redman, Nels Cline, and JSWISS as well as two bonus offerings with Donny McCaslin.

It’s a beautiful backstory of love and loss that in these times speaks personally - and universally.