Biography
Glyn MacDonald is a versatile musician with a career that spans continents and genres, deeply rooted in jazz. His journey began with performances in Canada, England, Rome, Scotland, Wales, and Australia. A graduate of the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts in Classical Trombone and Jazz Piano, Glyn quickly gained recognition, especially after his notable performance at the Vancouver Jazz Festival, where he was featured as CBC Radio's Artist of the Month. This success led to the release of three albums, including the acclaimed "Live @The Cellar: Glyn MacDonald Trio."
Glyn has collaborated with prominent artists like James Morrison, Andy Firth, and Rufus Reid, enriching Perth’s vibrant jazz scene. His recordings, such as "Self Titled 2004" and "Birth 2009," received rave reviews and extensive airplay, achieving international distribution.
His musical versatility is evident through his work with various ensembles, including the "Perth Jazz Orchestra," "Salamander," and the award-winning Stratosfunk. Glyn has performed globally, from the Villa Cillemontana Jazz Festival in Rome to sellout shows at the Beijing International Jazz Festival. His trio has performed at prestigious events, including state receptions for Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, and for the Prince of Belgium.
As an educator, Glyn has shared his knowledge at institutions like the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts and Carey Baptist College, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing future jazz musicians.
In 2020, Glyn relocated to New Zealand, where he joined the NZ Army Band, contributing original compositions and arrangements for significant events, including the Army's 175th Anniversary and the Tauranga Jazz Festival.
In 2023, Glyn's artistic journey continued to evolve. He was commissioned to compose for the Corella saxophone quartet; his piece "Kinjarling" became the title track for their album, inspired by Western Australia. Currently, Glyn serves as the musical director for the professional big band Funkestra, directs the River City Jazz Men, and performs with various jazz groups in Christchurch, showcasing his expertise on both trombone and piano.
Glyn MacDonald embodies a lifelong dedication to jazz, composition, and music education, leaving a lasting impact on the global jazz landscape.