Trombonist Robin Jessome maintains a very active performance schedule, in high demand as a distinct and unique musical artist, improviser and composer. Known for his musical sense of humour, Robin brings an exciting and playful intensity to any situation.

Robin’s energy is currently focused on his 11-piece project: Blunt Object. The ensemble is quickly gaining momentum in the Toronto jazz scene and features Robin as trombonist alongside many talented young musicians, and also showcases his original compositions and arrangements.

In addition to Blunt Object, he also leads a Quintet; a vehicle to explore original music in a more intimate setting which has plans to record a debut album in 2010. Outside of his own projects, Robin also works frequently as a trombonist in various Big Bands and ensembles around Toronto.

Robin was a member of the National Jazz Orchestra which was featured with performances at the 2009 National Jazz Awards. The ensemble was directed by and featured music from Christine Jensen, Vic Vogel and Denny Christianson.

He was also the subject of an hour-long radio segment, interviewed by Larry Green on “Jazzology”, aired in December 2007 on 91.1 JazzFM. The show featured original recordings and offered JazzFM listeners some unique insight into an emerging young artist.

In 2006, Robin also had the privilege to attend workshops at The Banff Centre for the Arts, premiering and recording new compositions and working with such luminaries as Chucho Valdés, John Korsrud and Hugh Fraser. Other highlights in Robin’s emerging career were being invited to attend the prestigious Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead workshop, and performances in Helsinki, Finland as a competition finalist in the 2003 International Trombone Festival.

Originally from Nova Scotia, he received a Bachelor of Music at St. Francis Xavier University and recently completed a Master of Music in Jazz Performance at the University of Toronto where Robin studied trombone with William Carn and Terry Promane along with composition with Phil Nimmons and David Braid.

Throughout his musical development, Robin has had the honour to work and study with many great artists including Tim Ries, Maria Schneider, Kenny Wheeler, Bob Brookmeyer, Ingrid Jensen, Conrad Herwig, Dave Restivo, John Hollenbeck, Julian Argüelles, Mike Murley, Lew Soloff and Ian McDougall.

May 09