Paul Combs

(Note: Paul Combs' CDs are not currently available, but will be again soon & a new one is on the way) Paul Combs received his earliest musical training in voice and trombone and studied saxophone, harmony and counterpoint as a teenager. He graduated with a B.Mus. in composition from the Philadelphia Musical Academy and earned his M.M. in performance at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. His eclectic career has included performing, composing for theater, film radio and television, and producing and announcing at radio stations in Philadelphia and Boston. From 1986 to 1999 he worked full-time in music education, and was very active in the Mass. Music Educators Association. Currently Mr. Combs is working as a free-lance performer, educator and author. He is a voting member on NARAS (the Grammys), and an executive board member of the Massachusetts Association for Jazz Education. “Dameronia,” his biography of Tadd Dameron, will be published by University of Michigan Press in 2010.

Gear

Soprano - P. Mauriat model 601 DK Alto - model 67R Tenor - Yanagisawa model 990 Bari - King Super 20 Flute - Burkart Resona

”You were wonderful at the Lowell concert” — David Amram

“Paul plays heavenly alto.” Valerie Ridenour - Key West, The Newspaper

“...if you dig soprano saxophnone, you really should hear this guy. He's playing some of the most interesting straight horn around.” - Larry Nai, Cadence Magazine

“It was fun playing with you . . .very nice “playing with a singer” chops, besides your sax virtuosity.” — Blaise Lantana, vocalist/radio producer, KJZZ Phoenix

“...one of the [New England] region's premier Jazz sax players.” - Martha Ouellette, Stroudwater Live Music Series

“[The Pocket Big Band] is a nine piece powerhouse with an outstanding jazz book

Primary Instrument

Saxophone

Location

San Diego

Credentials/Background

I taught for many years, both privately and in the classroom. Since moving to San Diego I have retired from teaching, although I may return to teaching one of these day. I enjoyed my years in education.

Clinic/Workshop Information

I am currently offering lectures, workshops, and residencies on topics related to Tadd Dameron's music, and what I have learned form my research. Contact me directly for the details. Teaching Experience (clinic, lecture and workshop) *MMEA All-State Conferences, clinics on creative teaching strategies for jazz ensemble.
*MMEA All-State Conferences, clinics on general music teaching strategies.
*Indian Hill Center for the Arts, Bell Arts Center, Mill Pond Arts Center, Timberlane Regional H.S