Joe Sanders is a well-known musician for his versatility, dedication and steady beat. Without a doubt, he is one of the most highly-respected young bass players of his generation. He has recorded and toured with many great musicians including Herbie Hancock and Jimmy Heath, as well as Ricki Coltrane and Jeff “Tain”, Watts, Mulgrew Miller, Geri Alley, Geri Allen, Geri Payton, Nick Payton, Nicholas Payton and Roy Hargrove. His album Two-Shade won a 2010 Grammy(r) nomination for Gerald Clayton. Sanders began his journey as a musician as a student at the best music programs, and is currently on the bandstand. Many mentors and teachers have helped him along the way. Catherine McGinn, Sanders’ first teacher, is a Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra member. She guided him through middle school and highschool. Although these were strictly classical lessons, it gave him the discipline and tools he needed in the future. He attended the Dave Brubeck Institute in Fall 2002 to learn from Christian McBride. Here he was taught the fundamentals of bass playing. Sanders was ready to move to New York after two years of studying with McBride, and many other jazz greats who had passed through the Institute. Sanders’ name became more well-known in New York as a result of gigs and jam sessions. Sanders was approached by an opportunity. After one year as a New Yorker, Sanders was heading to Los Angeles to attend Thelonious Monk Institute under Terence Blanchard, Artistic Director. Sanders was able to sharpen his musical skills and embrace new musical ideas that Blanchard presented while at the Monk Institute. Others challenged him, including Wynton Marsalis and Stephon Harris, as well as Lewis Nash. Sanders received one-on-one lessons with exceptional bassists, including Ron Carter, Bob Hurst and Charlie Haden. These teachers have inspired him to continue his progress. After graduating from Thelonious Monk, Sanders returned to New York City. He placed 2nd in both the International Society of Bassists Jazz Bass Competition Finals and Thelonious Monk Institute International Jazz Bass Competition Finals. He currently leads Joe Sanders’ Infinity, his own jazz band. He also tours extensively throughout Europe and the USA with Gerald Clayton Trio. from http://joesandersbass.com
