Bio
“Nat Lazzarotto is an intelligent and thoughtful musician whose playing not only references the past but points the way to the future”
A trombonist, composer, and educator based in Calgary, AB, with over a decade of experience in the jazz world, Nat Lazzarotto’s sound bridges the classic postbop influences of trombonists like J.J. Johnson and Curtis Fuller with the modern styles of artists such as Elliot Mason and Marshall Gilkes. As a composer, Nat blends the hardbop traditions of groups like the Jazz Messengers with fresh textures and ideas drawn from contemporary Canadian jazz.
A graduate with Honours from Humber College, Nat has studied with esteemed musicians such as Al Kay, William Carn, and John MacLeod, while also immersing himself in the vibrant Toronto music scene. His achievements include the Gordon and Ann Wragg Scholarship and the Dave Stillwell Arranging Award.
Nat has performed alongside renowned artists like Christian McBride, John Scofield, Emilie-Claire Barlow, Benny Benack III, and with ensembles such as the Sonuskapos Jazz Orchestra, Calgary Jazz Orchestra, and the Prime Time Big Band. He is also the leader of the Lazzarotto/Calhoun Quintet, a project blending hardbop, modern jazz, and original compositions. Recently, he has been exploring new ways to connect traditional jazz with contemporary influences, focusing on innovation within small ensemble formats.