I joined SFJAZZ Collective in 2018. I remember it like yesterday, the phone call, excitement, nerves and warm welcome from my brothers in the band and the Staff. After 4 years, 3 seasons and 3 records, numerous tours and concerts, I’ve decided to step aside and focus on my upcoming projects as well as my students at University of Miami Frost School of Music. Bittersweet is an understatement. The trumpet chair in SFJAZZ collective is a dream job, playing incredible music with incredible people, players and writers. Being able to write anything I want, knowing it’ll be played soulfully and impeccably was one of the high privileges of this gig. We got to feel music grow after repeated rehearsals and shows. It’s the one of a few professional scenarios I’ve seen like that in the jazz industry and I must commend Randall, Lilly, Jeanette, Greg, the board and staff for their diligent work and care in keeping that tradition moving forward. Congrats to Mike @eltipo79 who I’ve looked up to since I moved to New York. Can’t wait to hear you with this group. To my brothers in the band; David, you’re one of the main reasons I play and write music fed by the root rhythms and forms of our ancestors. Un gran honor Chris, I adore the fire in your playing and writing. So much joy hearing you tear it up every night and so much fear knowing I had to try to solo after you. Ed, rock solid with poignant pieces and comping that pushed me to think listen and react. Thanks for always bringing beauty with your work. Warren, country a** mofo lol. Love you man. Thanks for those long runs, hard solis and blazing the vibes and keys every show. Matt, my “classmate” as we joined the band same year. Is there anything you can’t do on the bass? You’re a true soldier for this music and an artist of the highest standard. Kendrick, always on the ball and listening to everything happening. I was always drawn to your sound from the first time I heard you with Terence 19 years ago. To the other members who I had the pleasure of working with here, Miguel, Obed, Robin, Adam, Martin and Gretchen, thanks for your brilliant artistry, love and fellowship. I’m forever grateful.