Rufus Reid, jazz bass

MSUFCU Jazz Artist in Residence

Rufus Reid, jazz bass
Residency Schedule Overview
December 5-11, 2016

Rufus Reid, one of today’s premier bassists on the international jazz scene, with his reputation firmly established in the education arena, now adds composition to his vitae. He participated in the BMI Jazz Composer’s Workshop for five years, and has written for string orchestra, jazz ensembles, concert band, double bass ensemble and a solo bass composition. 

Reid is equally known as an exceptional educator. He and Dr. Martin Krivin created the Jazz Studies & Performance Program at William Paterson University. Reid continues to teach, conducting master classes, workshops, and residencies around the world. His book, The Evolving Bassist, published since 1974, continues to be recognized as the industry standard as the definitive bass method. 

Reid attended Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, where he studied with Warren Benfield and principal bassist Joseph Guastefeste, both of the Chicago Symphony. He graduated in 1971 with a bachelor's degree in double bass performance. 

His major professional career began in Chicago and continues, since 1976, in New York City.  Reid has toured and recorded with Eddie Harris, Nancy Wilson, Harold Land & Bobby Hutcherson, Lee Konitz, The Thad Jones & Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra, Dexter Gordon, J.J. Johnson, Art Farmer, Stan Getz, Kenny Burrell, Kenny Barron and others

Official website for Rufus Reid

  • Monday, Dec. 5, Press Day, MSUFCU Blue Monday
  • Tuesday, Dec. 6, Rehearsals and Workshops at MSU
  • Wednesday, Dec. 7, Hackett Catholic Central High School, Kalamazoo; joined by Western Michigan University
  • Thursday, Dec. 8, Ann Arbor Pioneer/ Huron High School/Southeastern Music Academy at Ann Arbor Pioneer, Ann Arbor
  • Friday, Dec. 9, MSU Fairchild Theatre concert
  • Saturday, Dec. 10, Traverse City West High School, Traverse City
  • Sunday, Dec. 11, Carr Center Arts Academy, Detroit