Ben Patterson

Ben Patterson’s unique musical voice makes him instantly recognizable as a trombonist, composer, and arranger. He is the former lead trombonist and music director for the USAF Airmen of Note, with whom he spent 22 years thrilling audiences with his fiery technique and connecting with students all over the U.S. and abroad.

Ben has been a driving force for many Washington, D.C. ensembles, including the Jazz Orchestras of Alan Baylock and Fran Vielma and the Patterson/Purcell Project. He also leads his own groups, including The Ben Patterson Jazz Orchestra, which debuted in 2016 with the release of the recording, “Vital Frequencies featuring Chris Potter,” and continues with their 2025 Origin Records release, “Mad Scientist Music.” His all-star Washington, D.C.-based combo, The Ben Patterson Group, made the Jazz Week top 50 radio charts with its 2021 Origin Records release, “Push The Limits,” and earned critical praise with, their follow-up, “The Way Of The Groove.” Ben is also the owner of Pro Jazz Charts, a publishing house specializing in high-level big band arrangements. Ben’s own arrangements are played by bands around the world. Ben is a proud graduate of the University of North Texas.