Jazz Fest featuring Andre Hayward, trombone

Born in Houston, Texas in 1973, Hayward’s first exposure to the world of music was through his parents, Melvin and Barbara Hayward, where musical talent exists on both sides. Hayward began playing trombone and tuba at the age of 11 under the tutelage of Leon Schreiber and two years later with Bob Odneal who was lead trumpeter for Maynard Ferguson. Hayward continued playing through high school where he attended the High School for Performing and Visual Arts under the direction of notable jazz educator, Robert “Doc” Morgan. He continued to hone his skills with Houston’s legendary educator, Conrad O. Johnson. It was Conrad’s instruction, and the opportunity to work in his big band,”The Big Blue Sound,” where he really started to gain experience working in an ensemble.

He landed his first engagement with trumpeter Roy Hargrove for a European tour after being heard at a jam session during a festival while playing with the Texas Southern University Jazz Ensemble. After Hargrove, Hayward performed and recorded with singer/bandleader Betty Carter for five years in her acclaimed “Jazz Ahead” program. Other acclaimed performers include Joe Williams, Slide Hampton, John Lewis, Mingus Dynasty Big Band, Gerald Wilson, Kirk Whalum, Jimmy Heath, The Duke Ellington Orchestra, and Illinois Jacquet’s Big Band. His most recent performance credits are The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, The San Francisco Jazz Collective, and The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra.

In 2003, he received first place and a $20,000 scholarship at the International Thelonious Monk Trombone Competition in Washington, DC. Hayward is also an educator who has conducted numerous clinics and workshops in various parts of the US and overseas. Hayward has served as jazz trombone professor at New School of Jazz & Contemporary Music, New York University, New England Conservatory, Michigan State University, University of Texas – Butler School of Music, and University of North Texas. Hayward’s sound and clarity is reminiscent of the late J.J. Johnson and his gospel-tinged approach has been described as refreshing and inviting.