Talented, Young Trombonist Dies At 15

On Monday, December 10th, 2018, Malawi Lee McDonald passed away in their home in Yellow Springs, Ohio at the age of 15. Mala was a delight to be around and always was willing to learn more about creativity and music. A very talented bass trombonist, I first met them (Mala’s preferred pronoun) at the 2015 Ohio University Trombone Day where they stepped up and played a challenging tenor solo on bass trombone for a masterclass. Instantly, I knew Mala was a talented person and knew the sky was the limit for knowledge. Here is a video of them performing the first movement of the Brubeck Concerto for Bass Trombone.

Their love for the trombone was evident in their many visits to trombone workshops and festivals across the world. Whether it was an impromptu jam session at ITF, a visit to the Rath factory, or meeting one of their favorite trombonists, Mala’s excitement for music was contagious. Quite literally a prodigy, Mala was very talented on many different instruments and a masterful composer. One of their compositions entitled ‘Boneo and Juliet’ was written for and performed at the 2016 Dutch Bass Trombone Open (video below)

Mala’s smile, joyful energy, and kindness will be missed but their passion for music will inspire others to continue their legacy in sharing the gift and joy of music.

Thank you, Mala, for the brief yet impactful influence you had on this earth.

Updated: December 20, 2018 at 6:07 AM