Marshall Gilkes

Trombone - Special Guest Artist

Over the past 20 years, Marshall Gilkes has established himself as one of the world’s leading trombonists. With a warm, enveloping tone, remarkable range, and extraordinary technique, he stands at the forefront of brass playing.

Since 2004, Gilkes has released eight albums spanning trios, quartets, quintets, a brass-and-jazz octet, and big band formats. His work has earned widespread acclaim, including two Grammy nominations, cementing his reputation as both composer and bandleader. As a sought-after sideman, he has performed and recorded with Carlos Henriquez, Edmar Castañeda, Richard Bona, Makoto Ozone, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Slide Monsters, and many others. His long associations with the WDR Big Band and the Maria Schneider Orchestra have further secured his place in the history of large ensemble music.

Respected across jazz and classical worlds, Gilkes is also a dedicated educator. He has taught at the Manhattan School of Music, Berklee College of Music, and New England Conservatory, and has led master classes at institutions including the Banff Center, University of North Texas, Brubeck Institute, Royal Northern College of Music, and the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. An S.E. Shires Artist, he performs on his own signature trombone—an instrument as versatile as the artist himself. Visit Mr. Gilkes' website.