Markus Howell

arkus Howell is a performer, composer, and educator from Deerfield Beach, Florida. As a graduate of Michigan State University, Markus has had the opportunity to perform with guest artists such as Christian McBride, Jimmy Cobb, Peter Bernstein, Kenny Barron, and Louis Hayes. Along with the Michigan State Jazz Orchestra, he has made several appearances at the Detroit Jazz Festival and competed in the Next Generation Jazz Festival competition in Monterey, California. He is a Young Arts alumnus and a finalist in the North American Saxophone Alliance Jazz competition.

Markus has performed and recorded with top leaders on their respectful instruments including bassist Rodney Whitaker, trumpeter Etienne Charles, trombonist Michael Dease, guitarist Randy Napoleon, and saxophonist Diego Rivera. As an alumnus of the prestigious Betty Carter Jazz Ahead residency in Washington D.C., Markus has performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for The Performing Arts. Markus has performed the Star Spangled Banner at the American Airlines Arena, home of the Miami Heat. As an active film composer, Markus’ latest work features him as co-composer for a film called Sorta Late. This film was featured in the 2016 Traverse City Film Festival in Traverse City, Michigan. As an educator, Markus is on staff at Michigan State University as a graduate Teaching Assistant in Jazz Saxophone Performance while pursuing his master’s degree in Jazz Studies. With the many blessings and opportunities Markus has experienced thus far, he continues to strive for excellence and reach higher.