Reggie Watkins, a professional trombonist who has performed with such jazz and pop music icons as Dave Matthews, Dianne Schuur and Maynard Ferguson, will join the SUNY Fredonia Jazz Workshop on Sunday, Nov. 8. He will first conduct a master class at 3 p.m., followed by a concert at 8 p.m., accompanied by the Fredonia Jazz Ensemble. Both events are free and open to the public, and will take place in Rosch Recital Hall.
Watkins is a professional trombonist and music arranger currently touring with singer/songwriter Jason Mraz. In addition to Matthews, Schuur, and Ferguson, he has performed with artists such as Jose Feliciano, the Temptations, the Roger Humphries Big Band, the Kevin Frieson Ensemble, and Dr. Zoot.
Watkins first major role in his professional career came in 1999 when he joined Ferguson as trombonist, musical director and arranger for the legendary jazz trumpet player. On the 2001 Ferguson/Schuur release “Swingin’ for Schuur,” Watkins was the featured trombonist and arranger.
In Spring 2003, he was one of only 11 semifinalists to perform at the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute’s International Jazz Competition in Washington, D.C.
In early 2007, Watkins traveled to Thailand at the request of The King of Thailand — for the fifth time — to serve as musical director and trombonist for the king’s 80th birthday celebration.
During the master class, in addition to performance topics, attendees will have the opportunity to discuss the music profession from a business aspect, including the process of booking bands and artists.
