Joseph L. Jefferson is an award-winning educator, trombonist, and scholar whose career reflects both artistic versatility and a deep commitment to music education. He is Associate Professor of Music and Director of Jazz Ensembles at St. Olaf College, where he also teaches applied jazz/commercial trombone. His students and ensembles have earned national and international recognition, and in 2025, under his direction, St. Olaf Jazz I was selected to perform at the Midwest Clinic.
A dynamic performer, Dr. Jefferson moves seamlessly across jazz, symphonic, and commercial styles. He has appeared with artists and ensembles including Vanessa Williams, Sean Jones, Catherine Russell, Jennifer Wharton, Nick Finzer, Randy Brecker, the Cab Calloway Orchestra, The Colour of Music Orchestra, and Rubacão Jazz. He has also been featured as a soloist with the Marshall University Jazz Ensemble, George Fox University Jazz Ensemble, West Virginia University Wind Symphony, and Mt. Hood Symphonic & Jazz Band. His international teaching and performing engagements include appearances in Bermuda, Thailand, and Brazil.
Recognized nationally for his leadership in jazz education, Dr. Jefferson was named to Yamaha’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2023 and honored as the Jazz Education Network’s Ellis Marsalis, Jr. Jazz Educator of the Year in 2022. He frequently appears as a clinician, guest conductor, and adjudicator at leading festivals, and organizations, including Jazz at Lincoln Center, TMEA, and the International Trombone Festival.
Dr. Jefferson’s research includes work on the Shout Band tradition and publications such as The Art of Jazz Programming. Through his performances, teaching, and mentorship, he approaches music with deep respect for its power to move and transform people and continues to inspire the next generation of musicians worldwide.