Peter Nelson Quartet

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The Peter Nelson Quartet is a newly formed group dedicated to playing original music while staying true to the jazz tradition. The group consists of Matthew LoRusso on guitar, Jordan Otto on drums, Louis Rudner on bass, and Peter Nelson on trombone. The group’s sound comes just as much from the stories behind each piece as it does from the compositions themselves. The musical goals revolve greatly around story telling, making for a broad dynamic spectrum during each performance.

“We strive to create a welcoming and relaxing experience that is relatable,” says Nelson. “The vast majority of our compositions have a story behind them, and I’m eager to share this whenever I can.”

Nelson’s compositions communicate dialogue between two people and interpret the contour of different conversations. A big believer in melody, Nelson’s quartet speaks to the listener through thoughtfully crafted compositions, resulting in an approachable, engaging performance.

Gracing the stage at this year’s festival with the Peter Nelson Quartet is Marta Bagratuni. This guest vocalist is a trained opera singer and cellist who has performed worldwide and most recently with the iPalpiti Chamber Orchestra in Los Angeles. Bagratuni offers a rare gift to this year’s JazzFest attendees.

Trombonist, multi-percussionist, vocalist, composer/arranger and educator Peter Nelson has become a familiar face on the Michigan music scene. Since the young age of 14, Peter Nelson has been a familiar face at the JazzFest – and for good reason. Usually appearing with more than one ensemble, Peter Nelson leads his quartet with sharply honed talent and palpable love for his art and audience. Nelson was recently the featured soloist alongside trombone great Wycliffe Gordon. Teaching at a young age underscores Nelson’s acuity as a gifted musician, yet his accolades on stage with numerous internationally-acclaimed musicians reads like that of a legend’s.