Marcus Lewis Quartet

Young trombonist Marcus Lewis is a gifted young jazz musician who is determined to let the world hear what he has got to say. Since relocating to New York in August of 2006, Marcus looks to hit the New York jazz scene running. Marcus has a somewhat “different” style because of his wide range of musical influences. He has performed with numerous jazz greats such as Ernie Watts, Karin Allison, Keith Javors, Dave Pietro, John Fedchock, Ron MCcurdy, Matt Wallace, Doc Severenson, and Allen Vizzutti.Born in Waynesboro, GA in 1978, Lewis’ first exposure to the world of music didn’t come till the age of thirteen by the way of his middle school band James Bell. Marcus would be the first in his family to play an instrument. Lewis began playing trombone and was an immediate standout. Lewis continued playing through high school where he attended the Burke High School under the direction of Ken Hudlow. In the 11th grade started this life long journey for Marcus though the words of Hudlow: “Marcus you have a good ear why don’t you check out some jazz?” Marcus got inspired by listening to J.J. Johnson, Bill Watrous, and Carl Fontana and decided to go to Valdosta State University for College. Marcus honed in on his skills at Valdosta State under the wings of Doug Farwell and Bob Greenwaw. In 2001, Marcus Graduated from Valdosta State with a Degree in Jazz Performance. In the same year Marcus took a giant step and moved Nebraska to pursue a Master’s in Trombone. Being a dynamic soloist, Marcus won the Outstanding Soloist for the Witicha Jazz Festival in 2002.After a two year stint in the Midwest, Lewis decided to work on his arranging skills and teamed up with Royal Caribbean as the Musical Director/Trombone and arranger for the orchestra. He also arranged guest acts such as the Mike and Rhea Show, Peter Mezzoian, Jan Downs, and Carl Strong. He also performed with greats such as Elliot Finkel, and Pearl Kaufman. His recording credits include guest soloist on the track “Prism of glass” on the Jazzwholes Self titled Debut CD “Jazzwholes”.Marcus got his land legs back by doing freelance playing, arranging, masterclasses in Georgia and Nebraska. He led his own Quartet, Quintet, and Nine Piece Pocket Big Band. He also has taught the Jazz Composition workshop at the Omaha Conservaratory of Music. Marcus currently resides in New York trying to hit the NYC jazz scene with an iron fist. He is also continuing to give clinics and masterclasses around the country.