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MEMBERS OF THE MICHAEL SHIRTZ QUARTET:

 

DWIGHT BAILEY, BASS/VOCALS

Dwight Bailey is a native of Detroit, MI. He began his musical journey as a youngster singing in the church choir and playing the drums. At the age of 14 he began playing the electric bass and later attended The Ohio State University as a political science major. However, he was determined to learn more about the string bass. So, during his sophomore year he auditioned and was able to join a small student jazz ensemble, which was led by the late great pianist, organist, composer and educator, Hank Marr. During his years at The Ohio State University he studied under Dr. Milton Ruffin, Dr. Paul Robinson, and Roger Hines. He also took private lessons with Doug Richeson (Capital University), Eddie Brookshire (Sinclair Community College – Dayton, Ohio) and Dr. Solana Lee of The American School of Double Bass. In 2006 Dwight joined the Victor Wooten Bass Nature Camp in Nashville. It was there he studied with Victor and the wonderful team of instructors such as Chuck Rainey, Oteil Burbage, Gerald Veasley, Dave Welch, Steve Bailey, Anthony Wellington, and Bob Moore. 

 

Over the years Dwight has performed and toured with many gospel, blues, r&b, jazz, and funk artist: Dawkins & Dawkins, Bobby Jones, Douglas Miller, Wilbert Longmire, The Michael Shirtz Quartet, The David Gerald Band, Honey & Blue, Teeny Tucker, Midwest Modern Jazz Quartet and most notably the late Grammy Award Winning & Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Blues Artist, Dr. John. Dwight served as the bassist with the Harmony Project for over 10 years and was a part of the pilot television show, “Finding Harmony”, which was produced by ABC Disney Productions.

 

Dwight currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada where he is an active member of the Musicians Union Local 369. He works with various artist/organizations on the west coast and frequently performs on the famous “Las Vegas Strip.” In 2023, Dwight partnered with producer Phillip Smedley II to create his debut CD project, “The Broken String.” This exciting new venture highlights his original compositions and aides Dwight in sharing his musical journey. This spring, he will release his new book, also entitled “The Broken String.” In 2024 and 2025 Dwight will tour with his own band to perform over 16 shows in the United States, Canada and Europe.

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REGGIE JACKSON, DRUMS

Reggie Jackson, a Columbus, Ohio, native, is a graduate of The Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies. In college, the drummer began working with recording artist Kim Pensyl. Shortly after graduation, Reggie began his 11year tenure with two-time Grammy winner and jazz legend Diane Schuur, as well as a short stint with Aftermath recording artist Truth Hurts. He’s also toured with Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and 6-time Grammy winner Dr John. In addition to these artists, Reggie has also performed with Terence Blanchard, Kirk Whalum, Nicholas Payton, Wycliffe Gordon, Wendell Brunious, Rodney Whitaker, Frank Foster, Benny Golson, Arturo Sandoval, Eddie Daniels, Marcus Belgrave, Lew Tabackin, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Anthony Hamilton, Chuck Loeb, Nelson Rangel, and Antonio Hart. The versatile drummer has performed on the “The Tonight Show”, played in over 25 countries, and can be heard on recordings ranging from jazz to hip-hop, gospel, classical, and R&B. He has served as a frequent drummer and jazz clinician, taught on the faculty at Capital University, and currently serves as Artistic and Musical Director for the Harmony Project. 

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GEORGE MICHAEL, SAXOPHONE

With a rich and diverse career spanning over two decades, George W. Michael, a New York City-based saxophonist and educator, has excelled as a music educator, performer, clinician, composer, and arranger. Holding degrees from The University of Texas and Bowling Green State University, George has dedicated the last 12 years to educating young minds as a music teacher within the New York City Department of Education. His passion lies in teaching students in high-needs urban environments.

 

A Prima Music Foundation Artist, George's musical journey is deeply influenced by the sounds he immerses himself in, with luminaries like Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, and Herbie Hancock serving as some of his most significant inspirations. Prior to the pandemic, George's melodious saxophone could be enjoyed at various esteemed venues in NYC, including the likes of Carnegie Hall Music Educators Workshop, NYC Jazz Workshop, and the captivating performances of the Michael Shirtz Quartet.​

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