John Clayton Master Class- March 12, 2011

Bassist/Arranger/Composer/Conductor

“Arranging for Big Band and Orchestra” – Moderated by  Chris Walden

The patience he exhibits with his students… The provocative notes he chooses when he composes… The empathy he shows when he produces…. The scintillating sounds he coaxes from musicians when he conducts… pale in comparison to his charisma when you just hear him swing! And swing he does. Grammy-winning bassist/composer/conductor, John Clayton’s talents are consistently requested by the movers and shakers in the jazz industry, such as Quincy Jones and Tommy Lipuma. Clayton says, “When composing or arranging for the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, I am a disciple of Duke Ellington, Thad Jones, Oliver Nelson, Quincy Jones and Gil Evans, to name just a few.” Regarding his bowing techniques, he cites the radically different techniques of Slam Stewart, Major Holley and Paul Chambers as influences. There is no doubt, however, that John has created a niche for himself wherein he stands alone.

This Master Class is presented by the American Society of Music Arrangers & Composers and the Composers & Arrangers Foundation’s David Blumberg Educational Fund.