Gregory Groover Jr.

Born in New York and raised in Boston, emerging saxophonist, composer, and educator Gregory Groover Jr. has already made an indelible mark on the jazz world in a remarkably short time. Saxophonist Walter Smith III describes him as "a thematic musician whose playing is closely tied to composition. He plays with a lot of energy, and that's what defines him. The heart is what matters most: the direction and movement of his playing reflect what he truly feels." Groover's artistic talent harmoniously blends genres as he continues to push the boundaries of jazz while honoring its deep heritage.

Growing up in a music-infused environment, Groover embarked on his musical journey at a young age. His passion for jazz blossomed as he honed his craft, ultimately earning him a full scholarship to pursue both a bachelor's and master's degree in performance at the Berklee College of Music. Under the guidance of prestigious mentors such as Terri Lyne Carrington, John Patitucci, Miguel Zenon, and Dave Liebman, he thrived at the renowned Berklee Global Jazz Institute, led by acclaimed pianist and UNESCO Artist for Peace, Danilo Pérez.

Groover's unwavering dedication to his art and steadfast commitment to excellence have solidified his position as a leading figure in the contemporary jazz scene. As a bandleader, Groover has released two albums (Negro Spiritual Songbook, Vol. 1 & 2) and will make his debut with Criss Cross Records in April 2024 with his album Lovabye. In addition to being a bandleader, Groover is a highly sought-after collaborator who has performed at music festivals across the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Africa alongside some of the biggest names in contemporary music.

As an educator, Gregory has served as co-chair of the music department at his alma mater, the Boston Arts Academy, and currently holds the position of vice president of the ensemble department at the world-renowned Berklee College of Music. Through his teaching, he shares his passion for music with the younger generation, encouraging them to explore their creative potential. His commitment to supporting the next generation of artists reflects his belief in the transformative power of music.

Gregory Groover Jr. : tenor saxophone
Dabin Ryu : keys
Max Ridley : double bass