Gregory Groover Jr.

Born in New York and raised in Boston, emerging saxophonist, composer, and educator Gregory Groover Jr has already made a lasting mark in the world of jazz in a very short amount of time. Saxophonist Walter Smith III describes him as "a thematic musician, whose playing is closely linked to composition. He plays with a lot of energy, and that's what characterizes him. The heart is what matters most: the direction and movement of his playing reflect what he truly feels." Groover's artistic talent harmoniously blends genres as he continues to push the boundaries of jazz while honoring its deep legacy.

Raised in a music-filled environment, Groover delved into music from a young age. His passion for jazz flourished as he honed his craft, eventually earning him a scholarship covering all of his tuition to pursue a bachelor's and master's degree in music performance at Berklee College of Music. Under the guidance of prestigious mentors such as Terri Lyne Carrington, John Patitucci, Miguel Zenon, and Dave Liebman, he thrived within the renowned Berklee Global Jazz Institute, led by the acclaimed pianist and UNESCO Artist for Peace, Danilo Pérez.

Groover's unwavering dedication to his art and steadfast commitment to excellence have solidified his position as a leading figure in the contemporary jazz scene. As a bandleader, Groover has released two albums (Negro Spiritual Songbook, Vol. 1 & 2) and will make his debut on Criss Cross Records in April 2024 with his album Lovabye. In addition to his role as a bandleader, Groover is a highly sought-after collaborator who has performed at music festivals across the United States, Latin America, Europe, and Africa alongside some of the biggest names in contemporary global music.

As an educator, Gregory has served as co-chair of the music department at his alma mater, the Boston Arts Academy, and currently holds the position of ensemble department vice-chair at Berklee College of Music, a world-renowned institution. Through his teaching, he imparts his passion for music to the younger generation, encouraging them to explore their creative potential. His commitment to supporting the next generation of artists speaks to his belief in the transformative power of music.