Shareef Clayton by Melton Mustafa, Jr

American Jazz Trumpeter, Composer

SHAREEF CLAYTON

You performed at the Melton Mustafa Jazz Festival? What other festivals have you played at? Yes, I that festival was a great experience. Even though I was a guest performer, I also learned a lot listening to all the other teachers. I played at North Sea, Montreal, and Tabarka Jazz festivals. Who inspired you to become a musician and how long have you been performing? My father Anthony Clayton was my first inspiration. He played the saxophone and we would play duets together when I was a kid.

The second person was trumpeter Melton Mustafa. I was taking lessons with him at the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center in Miami. He inspired me to become a professional. He represented excellence on the highest level. Did you learn music in school? If so, tell us about that experience? Who was your music teacher(s) and what impact did they have on you? Yeah totally. I’ve been in a lot of arts schools all of my life. In high school I attended the New World School of the Arts and the environment was pretty awesome because you were surrounded by people who wanted to be great.

I left Miami after high school and moved to New York to study at the Manhattan school of Music. I felt like I was already prepared because of everything I learned at New World.

To name a few of my teachers were Melton Mustafa, Rodester Brandon, Jim Gasior Brian Neal, Adam Bookspan, & Laurie Frink. Why did you pick your instrument and was it your first choice? I started off as a drummer studying with Jack Ciano and just wanted to try something new and I eventually picked up the trumpet. What is your favorite song or original composition to perform and why?

This changes all the time and it depends on the mood. It would probably be something from the Earth Wind & Fire song book. I like them all ! lol.

My favorite original composition to perform is “ Going Home “ because it reminds me of growing up Miami with my family. How do you describe your playing or compositional style? I’m not sure how to answer this because I play a lot of different styles. The thing that matters most to me is playing soulful. I like to connect with people.

When I write I’m using my ears. I would never be satisfied with something that is technically right but not musically good. Listening is one of best tools. What are some the challenges you face in the music industry? Learning all the new trends. The industry changes everyday and must keep up with whats happening now versus how we use to do it. Now i’m sounding old lol. What are you doing to inspire the next generation of musicians? Showing them through example of things I’ve done and teach them how to get there. Also what to avoid which is very important. Who is your favorite male and your favorite female artist and why? Male Singer: Donny Hathaway Female Singer: Whitney Houston

When they sing I feel every word! Who are you listening to? Lately I’ve been checking out more classical composers like Mussorgsky. What’s your greatest accomplishment? Being in a position to help others

My favorite original composition to perform is “ Going Home “ because it reminds me of growing up Miami with my family.

Are you working on any new projects? Yes I’m writing music for my new big band. Where can we buy your music and how can we keep in contact with you? You can buy my music on all digital platforms. You can find me at: http://www.shareefclayton.com facebook.com/shareefclayton instagram.com/shareefclayton