Personal Statement

Michael Pallas is a seasoned trombonist who has been based in New York City for the last decade. Known for his clear tone and melodic improvisation he performs within the many contexts of the African music diaspora. Whether it be mambo, hard bop, afrobeat, or hip-hop, Pallas can be seen performing alongside renowned acts like Abdullah Ibrahim, Antibalas, Soul Science Lab, and The Steven Oquendo Latin Jazz Orchestra. Born in California and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Michael relocated to the Northeast to study music, earning a B.M. from the Jackie McLean Institute at the Hartt School of Music and an M.M. from New Jersey City University. He has since showcased his musical talent in many notable venues including The Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, and Lincoln Center. He has also toured extensively throughout North America, Europe, and North Africa. With his family heritage rooted in the Dominican Republic via The Bronx and Washington Heights, Pallas first began his career on the “cuchifrito circuit” exploring the sounds and culture of Afro-Latino music that makes up the New York salsa scene. This journey included experiences with well-known artists such as Eddie Palmieri, Tito Rodriguez Jr., and Victor Wail. His talents have since expanded beyond the Latin music community offering a diverse array of opportunities within the industry. In 2024 Pallas released his debut album, “Gateway,”. It features original compositions written during the pandemic, blending a post bop style with Latino elements and remixed under a hip-hop lens. `Gateway is composed of thirteen compositions based on infectious rhythms and the pulsating fusion of a sonic landscape that mirrors his own personal and artistic journey. Each track tells a story that reflects the 21st-century jazz artist’s complex relationship with tradition, innovation, and cultural expression. It’s a declaration of his arrival as a solo artist, showcasing his fluency across various styles while maintaining a cohesive, compelling voice throughout. It’s an exciting debut that promises even more innovation from Pallas in the years to come.` - 5 Finger Review

Michael P. Subjects

Trombone