John Swana


John Elliott Swana is an American jazz musician who played trumpet and flügelhorn until a benign tumor forced him to put down those instruments. He then picked up the valve trombone and electronic wind instrument to continue his music profession.
He began his career in clubs of his hometown of Philadelphia. He played in big bands, organ combos, and with musicians of the hard bop mainstream. Swana also worked with Ralph Bowen, Orrin Evans, Charles Fambrough, Jimmy Greene, and J. D. Walter.

Early life

Born in Norristown, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia, Swana took up Trumpet at the age of 11. He was drawn to jazz at the age of 17 after hearing Dizzy Gillespie, and the interest developed into a passion while he was in college. There he began transcribing the solos of Freddie Hubbard, Clifford Brown, Miles Davis, and Tom Harrell.

Discography

As leader

Introducing John Swana and Friends The Feeling's Mutual In the Moment Philly-New York Junction Tug of War Philly Gumbo On Target Philly Gumbo Vol.2 Bright Moments Abohm
  • ''Channels''

As sideman

With Eric AlexanderFull Range New York Calling
With Charles FambroughCity Tribes Keeper of the Spirit
With others