Bio

Calvin Sexton is an industry-renowned trombonist, composer, and music director based in New York City. Hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, the jazz, funk and soul multi-hyphenate is the man to call for your Calvin Sexton is a trombonist, composer, and educator based in New York City. Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, he has performed nationally and internationally as a soloist, ensemble leader, and collaborator.

Sexton has toured with Armed Forces Entertainment, performing for audiences in Japan, Guam, and Okinawa. He has also given concerts, residencies, and clinics at more than 100 colleges and universities across the United States.

He has collaborated with artists including Erykah Badu, Gladys Knight, Lucky Peterson, Lady Bo (of Bo Diddley), and Atlantic Starr, and has performed in a wide range of settings from symphony orchestras to jazz ensembles.

Earlier in his career, Sexton founded the Inner City All-Stars, which gained national attention with a televised performance on Showtime at the Apollo, earning a standing ovation. The group went on to perform at venues including Tipitina’s, House of Blues, the Meyerson Symphony Center, and the Jazz Museum of Harlem.

Sexton’s work has been supported by grants and programs including the South Arts Jazz Road Residency, the New York State Council on the Arts Artist Grant, the NYC Artist Corps Award, and placement on the Texas Commission on the Arts Touring Roster.

Currently, Sexton is focused on new jazz compositions and ensemble projects

Teaching Info

Learning trombone takes more than just showing up to band class — it takes focus, guidance, and the right coach. My lessons are designed to help students improve tone, range, and musicianship while building confidence on stage and in the classroom.

With me, students will get:

Weekly private lessons (NYC in-person )
Step-by-step practice plans tailored to auditions, performances, or school ensembles

Resources & recordings — custom exercises, song charts, and play-alongs
Audition prep — All-Region, All-State, college, and jazz ensembles
Confidence building — skills to play with power, style, and expression
Whether you’re aiming for a top chair placement, preparing for an important audition, or simply want to enjoy playing trombone, these lessons provide the tools to succeed.