Pianist, vocalist, and composer Dawn Clement is a joyful and formidable force in the landscape of modern creative music. For over two decades, Clement has served as both a torchbearer of the jazz tradition and as a trailblazer in fresh sonic explorations. “In all this world of jazz, there are very few individual voices, no matter what the instrument, but Dawn has come up with a voice that’s unique...” says legendary jazz trombonist Julian Priester.
Clement’s original music is an expansive collection that features her distinctive musical voice in a variety of genres, styles, and settings. Her six albums as a leader showcase her impressive range from master of the jazz piano trio style, to avant garde improviser, to an expressive songwriter and vocalist effortlessly incorporating indie and alternative influences. Downbeat says, “The revelation is Dawn Clement’s piano, always ready with the lyricism or structure the moment needs.” Clement shines as a collaborator and is highly in demand as a touring and recording artist. She has previously performed with jazz luminaries including Jane Ira Bloom, Ron Miles, Matt Wilson, Rene Marie, and Julian Priester. Dawn recorded with säje on their GRAMMY-nominated debut album, and has toured with the ensemble in the U.S. and Japan. Clement has been busy recording of late with several exciting projects forthcoming, including: trio with guitarist Steve Kovalcheck and bassist Jon Hamar (9/6/24), Esthesis Quartet with Bill Frisell (Spring 2025 *sunnyside), and a trio project with Buster Williams and Matt Wilson (Fall 2025).
Integral in Clement’s relationship with music is her role as an educator and mentor. She currently serves as Associate Professor and Area Coordinator of the Jazz and American Improvised Music Department at Metropolitan State University of Denver. In addition, Clement is a sought-after guest artist and clinician for jazz festivals. Most recently Clement was appointed the Artistic Director of the Centrum Jazz Workshop, taking over for the legendary bassist John Clayton.
Dawn holds a Bachelor of Music from Cornish College of the Arts and a Masters of Fine Arts in Music Composition from Vermont College of the Arts. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives in Denver, Colorado, and maintains strong ties to both the Seattle and Denver music communities. Dawn maintains a rigorous teaching and performing schedule while balancing the ever-fluctuating dance of parenting, composing, and supporting her local art scene.