Jonathan Michel, portrait

Jonathan
Michel, Bassist, Composer, Producer & Educator

Bassist · Composer · Producer · Educator

Jonathan Michel, about

About

Bridging Black American music and the Caribbean diaspora.

Jonathan Michel is a bassist, composer, producer, educator, and curator whose work bridges Black American music and the musical traditions of the Caribbean diaspora. Rooted in the belief that music is a vehicle for celebration, connection, and cultural preservation, his work spans the stage, studio, and classroom.

As a recording artist, Michel released his debut album, Jonathan Michel: MDR (Music & Dance Revisited), on Imani Records, produced by acclaimed pianist Orrin Evans. Beyond his work as an artist, he is an in-demand producer, arranger, and musical director, collaborating with artists and organizations across the entertainment industry.

A dedicated educator, Michel is passionate about developing the community and continuum of musicians through private instruction, workshops, and community engagement, encouraging students to build strong technical foundations while cultivating their own artistic voice.

A 15+ year performance career has taken him around the world, most recently serving as bassist for the 50th Anniversary First National Tour of The Wiz. Whether creating original music, producing for other artists, or mentoring emerging musicians, Jonathan Michel's work is guided by a commitment to artistry, excellence, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.

The Music

Listen

MDR, debut album, released 2018 on Imani Records, produced by Orrin Evans.

Press

"
A bassist of uncommon warmth and intention, his lines breathe with the story of the music.
All About Jazz
"
Michel's playing bridges tradition and modernity with grace, rooted in the diaspora and reaching outward.
DAYO Media
"
One of the most compelling voices on the bass working today.
Jazz on the Tube

On Stage

Dirty Dancing, The Musical

National tour, Jonathan Michel on bass. Fall 2026.

  • Aug 3, 2026Utica, NYStanley Theatre
  • Aug 10, 2026St. Paul, MNOrdway Music Theatre
  • Aug 17, 2026St. Paul, MNOrdway Music Theatre
  • Aug 24, 2026St. Paul, MNOrdway Music Theatre
  • Aug 31, 2026St. Paul, MNOrdway Music Theatre
  • Sep 7, 2026Chicago, ILJames M. Nederlander Theatre
  • Sep 14, 2026Chicago, ILJames M. Nederlander Theatre
  • Sep 21, 2026Richmond, VAAltria Theater
  • Sep 28, 2026Washington, DCNational Theatre
  • Oct 12, 2026Detroit, MIFisher Theatre
  • Oct 19, 2026Fayetteville, ARBaum Walker Hall
  • Oct 26, 2026West Palm Beach, FLKravis Center
  • Nov 2, 2026Charlotte, NCBelk Theater
  • Nov 9, 2026Greenville, SCPeace Concert Hall
  • Nov 16, 2026Boston, MAEmerson Colonial Theatre
  • Nov 23, 2026Toronto, ONEd Mirvish Theatre
  • Nov 30, 2026Toronto, ONEd Mirvish Theatre
  • Dec 7, 2026Toronto, ONEd Mirvish Theatre
  • Dec 14, 2026Toronto, ONEd Mirvish Theatre
  • Dec 21, 2026Toronto, ONEd Mirvish Theatre
  • Dec 28, 2026Toronto, ONEd Mirvish Theatre

Work Together

Collaborate

Teaching

Private bass instruction. In-person and online. All levels, from first steps on the electric to advanced upright technique.

Recording

Available as a session bassist for studio recordings across jazz, R&B, gospel, and soul. Remote and in-person sessions.

Producing

Music production, arrangement, and music direction for artists, ensembles, and label projects.

Study

Bass Lessons

Learn 1-on-1 with Jonathan Michel. Online packs starting at $100, limited spots each month.

See Lesson Packs

Press & Recognition

Wynton MarsalisCécile McLorin SalvantBilalBilly PaulMelanie CharlesEmeline MichelCarnegie HallSmalls Jazz ClubLitchfield Jazz CampThe New York TimesWynton MarsalisCécile McLorin SalvantBilalBilly PaulMelanie CharlesEmeline MichelCarnegie HallSmalls Jazz ClubLitchfield Jazz CampThe New York Times

Get In Touch

Let's make something.

For lessons, sessions, productions, or bookings, send a note.

ayitibass@gmail.com