June 14, 2024
Dr. David Mesquitic (24), who received his Jazz Piano Performance Degree from the Butler School of Music, was selected as a fellow for the prestigious United States Air Force Band Diversity Fellowship program. David has the incredible opportunity to join the United States Air Force's premier jazz ensemble, The Airmen of Note, for a week-long residency, culminating in a guest performance at a concert in Washington D.C.
David Mesquitic performing with the Airmen of Note
David said that his time at the Butler School of Music proved invaluable, shaping the foundation for his success after graduation. While at Butler, he focused not only on playing but also on composing. The United States Air Force Diversity Fellowship allows him to also go beyond playing the piano and will allow his composer side to shine.
"I'll be a featured guest pianist for the Air Force's premier jazz ensemble, The Airmen of Note, performing two of my original compositions for big band. These compositions have already been showcased at Austin's jazz clubs and U.T. Austin Jazz Band concerts."
David Mesquitic being interviewed about performing with the Airmen of Note
Who is David Mesquitic (DMA 24):
Award-winning pianist David Mesquitic is a composer and educator committed to the intergenerational transfer of knowledge, history, and traditions of jazz. Mesquitic currently teaches at the University of Wyoming as a Lecturer in Jazz Piano, where he also maintains a schedule performing with his trio, adjudicating, and commissioning music throughout the year. Mesquitic holds a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Texas at Austin, where he was awarded the 2022 Eleanor Alexander Stripling Award for Excellence in Jazz Studies. Mesquitic’s artistry has also been recognized as a recipient of the 2024 United States Air Force Band Diversity Fellowship. As bandleader, The David Mesquitic Trio released his second record, “The Trio: Volume 1.” David remains active performing, touring, and arranging as the leader of his trio, big band, and working sideman in both jazz and commercial-based projects. Mesquitic has had the privilege to study with luminaries Andy LaVerne, Gerald Clayton, Tamir Hendelman, Steven Feifke, and Benny Green. Mesquitic has shared the stage and/or recorded with GRAMMY Award-winner Steven Feifke, GRAMMY nominees Jeff Hamilton and Carmen Bradford, Benny Benack III, Aubrey Logan, Chad Lefkowitz-Brown, Andre Hayward, James Morrison, and Tony Glausi.
David Mesquitic performing his original composition Ol' Dusty Gig Trail