Jason Collier

Sunday, October 2nd

Jazz Trumpeter Jason Collier

Jason Collier is a freelance trumpet player, singer, songwriter, and arranger.

At an early age he gravitated toward the bombastic sound of his shiny trumpet counterpart even though it was recommended that he play the trombone. When the elementary band teacher found out he was set on playing the trumpet there would be no turning back.

After years of practice and private lessons; all-state and district honor band concerts he would receive a scholarship to attend Hampton University. This is where he discovered a love for jazz music. Although he was previously classically trained he found something endearing about playing improvised music. Something very challenging, and a life long endeavor to pursue. Through a year and a half of soul-searching in Hampton, Virginia he realized that playing jazz was what he wanted to do. So in the spring of 2001 he would enroll at Georgia State University and study with John Head, Gordon Vernick , and Kevin Lyons.

The Diversity of the Music Program at GSU helped Jason Collier realize the true power of music… The plethora of courses offered in the program ranged from improvising, composing, and arranging for any kind of ensemble. Giving him all the tools he needed to survive and adapt in the changing world of music.

After graduating he would go on to apply his musical talents on cruise ships working for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. Here he backed some of the world’s most interesting entertainers. Anything from comedians, aerial artist , to great singers. This experience challenged him every night and helped to refine everything he had learned at GSU. The emersion of culture and different people would help to define the worldly character that Collier attains today.

Currently Collier performs mainly with Ruby Velle and the Soulphonics. But you may have also seen him perform with Blair Crimmins and the Hookers, Curtis Harding, or countless other A list bands that have roots in the southeast.

Showtimes:  7:00pm and 9:00pm    Admission:  $24.