Miguel Sawaya Bassist, composer, bandleader Birth date: July 2, 1978

Musical training/education:
Miguel began his musical training by studying piano privately at the age of seven. He continued with the piano until he was nine when he switched to the clarinet, studying privately and playing in school bands and orchestras. At the age of fifteen he switched to the double bass, once again studying privately as well as playing in school orchestras and jazz bands. He was a member of the Santa Monica High School Symphony Orchestra in 1996 when it was invited to Spain to give performances and enter in competitions. After high school, Miguel went to Wesleyan University in Connecticut to continue studying music. There, he continued to study privately, while also playing in the university’s jazz ensembles, symphony orchestra, and a wide variety of world music ensembles. His coursework included the study of music theory and history, and the study and practice of jazz and world musics. In 1999, Miguel transfered to the University of California, Los Angeles where he was a Jazz Studies major. In 2002, he graduated from UCLA with a BA in Ethnomusicology, Jazz Studies Concentration.

Teachers:
Miguel has studied with many world-renowned musicians, including bassists Bertram Turetzky, Ken Filiano, Nat Reeves and Roberto Miguel Miranda, vibraphonist Jay Hoggard, saxophonists Anthony Braxton, Jackie McLean and Harold Land, guitarist Kenny Burrell, composer/arranger/bandleader Gerald Wilson, and drummer Billy Higgins.

Professional experience:
In high school, Miguel organized his first jazz ensemble, a trio called the Shamen, which played for school functions, private parties, and at the passing of the Olympic torch at the Santa Monica Pier. While at Wesleyan, Miguel played professionally with a variety of jazz combos, performing at clubs and restaurants in the New England area. He has been working steadily since his return to Los Angeles in 1999, as a sideman and as a leader of his own combos. Highlights include performances at the Blue Lady Jazz Festival, and at the famed Largo Nightclub in West Hollywood with legendary jazz guitarist Kenny Burrell. Since 2001, he has been a member of the Richard Glaser Trio, performing regularly at a number of venues throughout Los Angeles and surrounding areas.

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