Saxophonist Elan Trotman, quickly becoming one of jazz’s most thrilling and emotive performers, continues to stand out and push boundaries as a composer, performer, teacher and recording artist. Trotman’s playing, though inspired by Grover Washington, Jr. and Kirk Whalum, among others, displays his own fresh ideas and distinctive tone. So much so that the New England Urban Music Awards named him best male jazz performer, and he’s been nominated for Boston Music Awards in the jazz category.
Born and raised in Barbados, the native island of pop star Rihanna, and educated at the world-renowned Berklee College Of Music in Boston, Trotman approaches jazz in his own way. Blending Caribbean rhythms from his roots with skillful horn textures, his playing is full of surprises. “I like to stretch out, take chances on my solos.” Inspiring and eminently listenable, Trotman’s music is never predictable.
ON STAGE Trotman has recorded and performed with a number of world-class musicians, including Roberta Flack, Kirk Whalum, Brian McKnight, Johnny Gill, Tony Terry, Nathan East, Najee, Walter Beasley and Don Grusin. A huge sports fan, Trotman has performed the National Anthem on numerous occasions for such teams as the Boston Celtics, Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers. He put together the band that performed for NBA star Ray Allen’s wedding and performs annually for Theo Epstein’s charity event “Hot Stove Cool Music,” jamming with pro pitcher Bronson Arroyo and former ESPN analyst Peter Gammons. Says Trotman: “I hope that everyone, including people of all ages who might listen to straight-ahead jazz, smooth jazz, rock or gospel, enjoys the music and the performance. It’s for them.”
IF YOU WANT TO GO:
Date: Saturday, August 11
Time: 9p.m.
Place: Fanz Sports Grill (3425 David Cox Rd)
More info: www.fanzsportsgrill.com
