Graydon Peterson completed his bachelor’s degree in music composition at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire where he studied classical bass with James Clute, a former bassist with the Minnesota Orchestra. While Graydon was a member of the Downbeat award-winning UWEC Jazz Ensemble I, he performed with such guest jazz artists as Lewis Nash, Ingrid Jensen, Jason Marsalis, and Chris Botti. Now a resident of Minneapolis, Graydon is one of the area’s top-call bassists, performing nightly with a variety of vocalists and small ensembles. Graydon has accompanied world renowned jazz drummer Francisco Mela for a series of concerts in Havana Cuba, some of which were held at the International jazz festival there. Other widely know artists Graydon has performed with include Delfeayo Marsalis, Gary Bartz, Randy Brecker, Ben Wendel, Jorge Pacheco and Mayito Rivera. A consummate accompanist, writer and arranger, he has become one of the backbones of the jazz scene in the twin cities.
“A crafty, creative composer.” – Star Tribune
“Graydon’s tunes evoke a wide variety of emotions and energies, stretching what we know as ‘modern jazz’ to its limit.” – Artist’s Quarter