DTBK Presents: Willoughby Plaza Lunchtime Music Series with Jonathan Michel

Brooklyn’s best musicians provide a soundtrack to your lunchtime enjoyment at Willoughby Plaza.

Born and raised in Waterbury, Connecticut, Michel studied music at Central Connecticut State University. He discovered music through his father, a gifted singer and guitarist who regularly led his family in songs and prayer at home. Beginning on guitar at the age of 4, Michel also tried his hand at piano and trombone before settling on the bass at 9. He moved to Philly after college, drawn by the sound of the city as filtered through many of his strongest influences: jazz bassists Christian McBride, Reggie Workman, Jymie Merritt and Percy Heath as well as hip-hop artists like Schoolly D and The Roots. He moved to New York City in 2010, where he’s led a monthly residency at Smalls for the last three years.

He’s since worked with a number of influential artists, including Orrin Evans, Aaron Goldberg, Andrew Cyrille, Terrace Martin, ELEW, Spike Wilner, Gil Goldstein, Dominck Farinacci, Bilal, and the Revive da Live Big Band. Having worked with singer Billy Paul as bassist and musical director for five years, Michel has formed a tribute project that highlights the jazz, social justice and hit-making aspects of the great singer’s career. In addition, Michel explores the sounds of his Haitian heritage through his ensemble L’Ouverture. He has taught at Philadelphia’s Clef Club of Jazz and the Litchfield Jazz Camp and led workshops for Experience Ayiti and Jazz at Lincoln Center.

In partnership with Haitian Cultural Exchange (HCX)

Performances in the series:

June 1 | Our Band
June 8 | Erica Mancini
June 15 | Jonathan Michel
June 22 | Gregorio Uribe
June 29 | Fiddles and Congas: Samuel Torres + Sarah Alden
July 6 | Elifè & Tompkins
July 13 | Wayne Tucker and The Bad Mothas
July 20 | John Ellis
July 27 | Tamar Korn