Branford Marsalis

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Oral History Information

Branford Marsalis has a deep passion for music that reflects not only in his playing but his music education as well. Branford attributes his skills as a musician through dedicated practice in real life band situations, continually reassessing where he is in his practice and development. This approach has taken Branford from his early development through his time spent in Art Blakey’s band, his tenure with Sting, the Tonight Show, and onto his Grammy award winning solo career. Additionally, Branford is actively involved in music education through teaching at numerous universities and the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music. Whether on the local community level or in the national spotlight, through both his playing and teaching, Branford actively works to tirelessly serve the music community.