معرفی
Terell L. Stafford serves as the Laura H. Carnell Professor, Department Chair of Jazz Studies, and Director of Jazz Studies at Temple University's Boyer College of Music and Dance. He also holds the position of Artistic Director for the Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia.
His academic credentials include:
- Master of Music (MM) from Rutgers University
- Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Maryland
Stafford's research and creative work centers on jazz performance techniques, trumpet pedagogy, and the evolution of jazz composition. His scholarship bridges historical traditions with contemporary innovation, emphasizing improvisational frameworks and ensemble dynamics. As McCoy Tyner described him, he represents "one of the great players of our time," with profound influences ranging from Clifford Brown's interpretations to modern Latin jazz fusion.
His distinguished honors include a GRAMMY Award for Best Large Ensemble with the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra (2009), dual GRAMMY nominations for Best Instrumental Composition (Clayton Brothers Quintet and "fourth stream...La Banda"), and Temple University's Creative Achievement Award.
Stafford actively mentors emerging musicians through Temple's Jazz Studies program and national initiatives like Jazz at Lincoln Center's Essentially Ellington Program. His discography comprises six critically acclaimed solo albums and over 90 sideman recordings, including collaborations with Diana Krall and the Jimmy Heath Big Band. He previously held faculty positions at Juilliard's Institute for Jazz Studies and currently serves on the Jazz Education Network board.
As Director of Jazz Studies, Stafford leads curriculum development and performance initiatives at Temple while directing the Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia, creating platforms for student-artists to engage with professional ensembles and recording projects.
