Bill Watrous was named number one jazz trombonist for seven consecutive years in Downbeat's reader's poll, and won the magazine's critics award twice.
  In addition to an active schedule of performances, he plays in studio groups and has recorded nine albums.  His second, "Tiger of San Pedro," was nominated for a grammy as "Best Performance by a large jazz ensemble".
  Bill started playing trombone at the age of six.  His father, a professional trombonist who played with the name bands of the '40s, taught him to play, offering good advice on: non-pressure control playing; use of the overtone series; and the importance of relaxation.  While in grade school, he played in ensembles, but he did not read the music.  "I would listen to the group play a song and then copy it.  Sometimes I would fool around and improvise with the tune while the ensemble played, which never made anyone too happy!"  In high school he performed in the jazz band, or "swing band" as it was known in the '50s.  After graduating from high school, he joined the Navy and continued to perform in San Diego and New York.  After his discharge, he settled in New York and began to build his career.  Bill played with the Kai Winding Septet, Roy Eldridge, Quincy Jones, Woody Herman, Count Basie, and was a member of the Dick Cavett and Merv Griffin Show bands.
  In the late 70's he moved to California.  Throughout his career he has proved himself a superb player, capable of excelling in any area from studio work to clubs.

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