About Michael Kaplan

Michael Kaplan is a creative, diverse, and regularly performing trombonist, composer, arranger, bandleader, and educator based in the Philadelphia area.

Michael holds a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from Temple University and a Bachelor's degree in Jazz Trombone and Music Education from West Chester University.  He studied with jazz icons such as Terell Stafford, Tim Warfield, and Joe McDonough, and has performed at such venues as The MET, The Kimmel Center, and Jazz at Lincoln Center with the Temple University Jazz Band.

Michael now performs full time, band leading and managing his own band, The Michael Kaplan Superband, a group focused on performing Michael’s original compositions and arrangements. The Superband has performed at venues including Rite of Swing Jazz Club, Chris’ Jazz Club, New York City’s Seven24Collective, and The Nomad Wilmington, and have featured artists such as John Swana and Jonathan Ragonese in recent performances. Michael also performs at shows, weddings, and events throughout the Philadelphia and Atlantic City areas with numerous other musical acts. Michael is constantly hosting original music jam sessions and other educational and creative outlets for developing the community and musicians of all skill levels as well.

As an educator, Michael puts creativity and enjoyment right up there with discipline and setting goals, and is focused on having fun and helping his students make improvements in their musical journey through positive and constructive feedback, focusing on students interests and learning style!