About Tarik

Bronx-born bassist, composer, and jazz educator Tarik Shah, began his journey in music when he was granted his first bass as a gift from his mother at age twelve. By the age of fourteen, he was performing regularly, and by the age of sixteen, he had become the sole student of renowned jazz bassist Slam Stewart (1914–1987). 

Very early in his career as a bassist, Tarik became a sought-after sideman to some of the greatest artists in jazz. In 1984, at the age of 21, he joined Betty Carter's band and began touring internationally. After his return, he proceeded to perform and record with jazz luminaries such as Ahmad Jamal, Randy Weston, Abbey Lincoln, Rahn Burton, Barry Harris, Pharaoh Sanders, Vanessa Rubin, the World Saxophone Quartet, and Hamiet Bluiett, among many others. In 1992, he was invited to play with the Duke Ellington Orchestra for President Bill Clinton’s inaugural ball, alongside Red Rodney, Sir Roland Hanna, Harold Vick, and Dr. Lonnie Smith.  

Now residing in New York’s Capital region, Tarik continues to perform in New York City's finest jazz venues such as Mezzrow and Smalls, while continuing to mentor many young musicians in the Albany, New York music scene. Tarik is currently at work on two major projects – his first methods book titled Harmony, Improvisation, and How to Practice and a debut solo album entitled Solitary Refinement, featuring his original compositions. 

Tarik’s current projects have been supported by the Jazz Foundation of America and SmallsLIVE Foundation for Jazz Art & Education. For bookings, contact Tarik at tarikshah.bass@gmail.com. 

Recordings

· Nat Dixon, Upfront, 1984

· Pharoah Sanders, Oh Lord, Let Me Do No Wrong (with Bill Henderson, Leon Thomas, others), 1987

· Abbey Lincoln, Abbey Sings Billie, Vols. 1–2, 1987

· Jazz Pizzazz II, In a Sentimental Mood, 1992

· George Braith, Double Your Pleasure – Live at the University of the Street, 1992

· Vanessa Rubin, Pastiche, 1993

· World Saxophone Quartet with Fontella Bass, Breath of Life, 1994

· Abbey Lincoln, You and I, 1997

· Various Artists, Sing Me a Song of Jazz, 1997

· Irene Reid, Movin’ Out (with Rodney Jones, Bobby Forrester), 2003

· Irene Reid, Thanks to You, 2004

· June April, Jazz Hymns, 2004

Live Performance Highlights 

· International tour with Betty Carter (June 1984 - December 1986)

· Dakota Staton (January 1987 - September 1987)

· Gloria Lynne (September 1987 - August 1989)

· Duke Ellington Orchestra (September 1989 - August 1992) and President Bill Clinton’s inaugural ball (January 1993)

Additional Credits

Tarik has also performed and recorded with the following world-renowned musicians:

Randy Weston, Fontella Bass, Willis Gatortail Jackson, Roland Prince, Bobby Watson, Steve Turre, Harold Vick, Lenny White, Rodney Jones, Walter Bishop Jr., Bill Henderson, Leon Thomas, Gregory Porter, Claudio Roditi, Phyllis Hyman, Red Rodney, Melvin Sparks, Tom Browne, Sir Roland Hanna, Ralph Moore, Ellis Marsalis Jr., Barry Harris, Richard Williams, Benny Green, and Bobby Forrester