Luis Bonilla could be described as an octopus if he were an artist. California-raised, Costa Rican trombonist and composer, as well as an arranger, has sought out and learned a wide range of musical styles. Bonilla’s success as a sideman for such legends as McCoy Tyner and Dizzy Gillespie as well as Lester Bowie and Tom Harrell, Freddie Hubbard and Willie Colon, Freddie Hubbard and Freddie Hubbard is a testament to his talent and versatility, as well as a mind that is always open to new and challenging music. Bonilla’s experience is not uncommon. He has been a studio musician for Tony Bennett, Marc Anthony and Mary J. Blige. He understands and exploits both the pop energy and the Latin Jazz rhythmic sway. He is currently a member the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Arturo O’Farrill’s Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra and Dave Douglas’s newest group, Dave Douglas.
