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Phil Wilson was born Phillips Elder Wilson, Jr. on January 19, 1937 in Belmont, Massachusetts. He began on piano, but was advised to switch to trombone due to his having a mild form of dyslexia. This condition did not hamper his music and by fifteen he had turned professional. He played for Herb Pomeroy’s band from 1955 to 1957 and after which he toured with the Dorsey brothers. He would also work with Woody Herman’s band and in the 1960s wrote music for Buddy Rich.

By the mid-1960s Phil started recording as a leader and over the course of his career has released fourteen albums. Making a name for himself as an educator he joined the faculty at Berklee College of Music in 1965. He formed an ensemble there that became one of the most well regarded college jazz bands. He has also sat as a former chairman of the jazz division of the New England Conservatory of Music.

A jazz trombonist and arranger, Wilson continues to compose, perform and teach.

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