Matt Litwaitis

Matt Litwaitis is a dedicated and innovative trombonist whose passion for music extended beyond performance into the world of transcription and preservation. Using an early version of Sibelius, Matt carefully transcribed the work of his close friend, legendary bass trombonist George Roberts, helping to establish what would become standard publications for the instrument. His collaboration with Irv Kratka’s Music Minus One resulted in two landmark projects—Unsung Hero: The Artistry of George Roberts and Big Band Ballads for Tenor or Bass Trombone—both now distributed by Hal Leonard and treasured by musicians worldwide. These experiences were profoundly rewarding for Matt, deepening his appreciation for George, often regarded as the father of the bass trombone. As a performer himself, Matt’s warm and lyrical style reflected his belief that music should flow like the human voice. “I sing into my horn,” he explained, “lightly, with little stress or strain—nice and easy, like singing a note.”