New York trumpeter extraordinaire, Dave Douglas, has joined the impressive list of musicians who have made their presence felt at The Banff Centre since 1974. Douglas has recently accepted the position as Artist-in-Residence for the Banff International Jazz Workshop, a program that has been setting the standard for jazz excellence around the world for the past 30 years.

"I am proud and honored to be part of the workshop at The Banff Centre, following the  legacy of other great musicians who've been here, like Dave Holland, Oscar Peterson, Anthony Braxton, Cecil Taylor, Kenny Werner, Steve Coleman, Ed Blackwell, Phil Nimmons, Hugh Fraser, and so many others," says Dave Douglas.

"It's exciting to be part of this continuum of creative music, and to know that it will continue in Banff for many years to come. To be able to explore new music in such a great environment with such a fantastic bunch of people is a true thrill," says Douglas.

In addition to his work as a trumpeter, composer, and bandleader leading a wave of innovative, groundbreaking, and socially and politically aware artists, Douglas is also a sought after educator, giving master classes and workshops at universities and schools worldwide. Douglas has been a guest faculty for the past two years in the Banff International Jazz Workshop, a three-week residency for jazz musicians from all around the world.

Under Douglas’ leadership, the Jazz Workshop will focus on facilitating the creation of original music. By taking a broad look at great music in the past, musicians are encouraged to think in new ways about music and music making. The Workshop will address composition, improvisation, ear training, rhythm studies, instrumental technique, and band leading.

"I recommend this program to anyone who wants to develop a deeper relationship with the creative impulse in jazz. It's really about finding your own link to the tradition," says Douglas.

Next year’s workshop takes place May 19 – June 7, 2003, and Dave Douglas will be joined by the following visiting artists: Mark Turner, Mike Murley, Brad Turner, Jason Moran, John Abercrombie, Peggy Lee, James Genus, Clarence Penn, and Dylan Van Der Schyff.

Application deadline for the Banff International Jazz Workshop is January 15, 2003.

Click here for program and application details.