BIO
Born in the Tampa Bay area, drummer/vibraphonist/latin percussionist/composer, and educator, Cole Hazlitt, is a versatile musician covering a wide variety of musical styles and genres. Cole graduated from the Manhattan School of Music with a masters in jazz vibraphone, studying under Joe Locke, as well as completing a bachelor's degree in Jazz drum set. Cole was the drummer for the Grammy nominated Manhattan School of Music Afro-Cuban Jazz ensemble for four years, directed by Bobby Sanabria. Cole has composed and arranged several pieces of music for big band, orchestra, and small ensembles, as well as composing the music for short films. Cole is well versed in the usage of electronics in compositions as well.
Cole’s musical influences often come from Afro-Cuban music, and Brazilian music, combined with harmonies from the Western European classical tradition. His compositions have been performed at Dizzy’s Jazz club, The New School, The Manhattan School of Music, along with many other venues.
PRESS
Editor’s Pick · Featured Album · TjaderAid ¡Viva Cal!
The onerous task filling Cal Tjader’s big shoes was given to Cole Hazlitt, a young vibraphonist who not only performs with distinction, but also brings the unfettered swing of Mr Tjader’s music back to life again. His masterful use of mallets, crisp attack that makes for sparkling, resonances notes and phrases redolent of silvery, ultra-cool and lyrical clave that once leapt from the tubes of Cal Tjader’s instrument. Continue reading…
