Slide Tradition, formed in 1998 by a group of University of North Texas students, quickly developed its reputation by winning both the 2000 International Trombone Association Kai Winding Competition and the National Jazz Trombone Ensemble/Capitol Bones Competition. They have performed in Utrecht, The Netherlands, Washington, D.C., and throughout the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex.
Comprised of six trombonists and rhythm section, Slide Tradition combines the excitement and brilliance of a jazz big band with the intimacy and communication of a jazz combo. Because literature for this type of ensemble is limited, Slide Tradition has commissioned many young composers and arrangers to write for the group. With the combination of powerful writing, excellent ensemble playing and superb improvisation, Slide Tradition is proving itself to be an exciting jazz trombone ensemble.
2002 is the group's busiest year yet with an upcoming CD release. The disc will feature Steve Wiest, an alum of the Maynard Ferguson Band, as well as new compositions and arrangements written for the group. Slide Tradition members Paul Compton, Zach Giffel, Jeff Valentine, Michael Lucke, Stephen Smith and Joshua Brown all perform on Edwards Trombones exclusively.
