Augusta’s Michael Dease: A Journey from Saxophone to Trombone Stardom

Exploring the Musical Journey of Augusta’s Own Michael Dease

In the heart of Augusta, there’s a sound that resonates deeply, not just within the jazz community but also across the globe. Michael Dease, a homegrown talent, has carved a niche for himself as a trombonist extraordinaire. It’s fascinating to note how the trombone—an instrument often linked to marching bands and comedic soundtracks—can produce such warmth and depth under Dease’s skilled hands.

From Sax to Bone: A Unique Path

It’s easy to forget that Dease’s adventure into the world of jazz started with a saxophone back in the fifth grade. “The sax,” he reflects, “that came first. That’s what got me interested in jazz. That was me until my senior year. I was the jazz sax guy.” While many think saxophones are the go-to for jazz bands, Dease felt the pull of the trombone later on, partly inspired by legends like Curtis Fuller and his own mentor, Wycliffe Gordon.

“Hearing that solo, hearing those tones, well, it just blew my mind,” he shares, recalling his journey from woodwind comfort to embracing the trombone. He admits that finding his groove on the trombone was challenging, but the allure of its sound nudged him to step outside his box. Dease emphasizes this pivotal change, saying, “It just took one moment of inspiration to spark everything.”

The Impact of Mentorship

Wycliffe Gordon, a prominent figure in the jazz world himself, played an instrumental role in shaping Dease’s career. “It’s hard to put into words,” he explains, noting Gordon’s ability to inspire and connect with his students. “His love of music just radiates. It really created that initial pull toward music.” Through their connection, Dease found the courage to speak to his parents about pursuing music as a career, realizing that if Gordon could forge a path, perhaps he could too.

A Journey Through Education

After his high school years at Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School, Michael took a monumental step forward, becoming one of the very first jazz students at The Juilliard School in New York City. His passion and hard work paid off, leading to both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in music. Reflecting on his time at Juilliard, he states, “Juilliard taught me how to play, but being in New York taught me how to be a performer.”

The Learning Curve and the Artist’s Path

In the hustle and bustle of New York, Dease began playing professionally, starting small but quickly gaining recognition. Now, when he talks to his students, he emphasizes the importance of readiness and preparation. “You have to be ready when your opportunity comes,” he notes, advising future musicians to understand that “hard work increases your odds for success.”

In a world that often craves instant gratification, Dease believes that this mindset is crucial for jazz musicians. “Putting the work in is what counts,” he asserts. “Being ready when opportunity knocks means putting in the practice.”

A Community Impact

While Dease has enjoyed success on an international scale—earning the title of Trombonist of the Year in Downbeat magazine’s Critic’s Poll for three consecutive years and performing with heavyweights like Alicia Keys and Paul Simon—what truly remains close to his heart is his Augusta roots. His journey reflects not only personal ambition but also a deep connection to the community that fostered his talents and ignited his passion for jazz.

For Michael Dease, every note played and every opportunity seized is a tribute to the rich musical heritage of Augusta. As he continues to inspire the next generation of musicians through teaching and performance, it’s clear that his story is still being written—and there are many more beautiful melodies yet to come.