Michael Dease

Biography

Michael Dease was born in Augusta, Georgia, where he initially played the saxophone and trumpet before discovering his passion for the trombone at age 17, teaching himself the instrument as a high school senior. In 2001, he moved to New York City to join the historic first class of jazz students at The Juilliard School, earning both Bachelor's and Master's degrees while quickly establishing himself as a brilliant soloist, sideman, and bandleader. His early career saw him recording four critically acclaimed albums as a leader—The Takeover (2005), Clarity (2007), Dease Bones (2008), and Grace (2010)—and contributing to over 100 sessions as a sideman before age 30.[1][3][5]

Fun Facts

• Dease is a self-taught trombone prodigy who entered Juilliard on a full scholarship as part of its inaugural jazz studies class.
• He owns the D Clef Records label, where he produces sessions for emerging artists, composes originals, and writes liner notes.
• A 2025 Guggenheim Fellow, Dease has revitalized the trombone's role in small jazz groups led by masters like Winard Harper and Renee Rosnes.
• Profiled in Cicily Janus’ book The New Face of Jazz: An Intimate Look at Today’s Living Legends (Random House).

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Wycliffe Gordon - trombone legend and primary teacher (general studies and craft development) [early career]
• Joseph Alessi - trombone legend and teacher (general studies) [Juilliard era]

Key Collaborators

• Christian McBride - band leader and Grammy-winning projects (various bands and recordings) [2000s-present]
• Roy Hargrove - band leader (bands and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra) [2000s-present]
• Nicholas Payton - band leader (various performances) [2000s-present]
• Alicia Keys - Grammy-winning collaborations (multiple recordings) [2000s-present]
• The Heath Brothers - frontline small groups (quintets/sextets) [2000s-present]

External Links

• Spotify