Karim Gideon is an accomplished trumpeter whose passion for music began at the age of 10 in his middle school band. By high school, his talent and dedication to jazz earned him the mentorship of renowned musicians like Dr. Teddy Harris Jr., Marcus Belgrave, and Harold McKinney, with the latter’s Serengeti Ballroom workshops providing a crucial training ground. After high school, Karim enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he continued to pursue jazz while stationed in Yokosuka, Japan. Immersing himself in the vibrant Tokyo jazz scene, Karim honed his craft alongside talented local and international musicians. His military service also took him to Dubai, Norfolk, and Afghanistan, all while maintaining his dedication to jazz. Upon completing his service, he earned a degree in music from Wayne State University, building a career rooted in both tradition and innovation.

Karim has performed with legendary artists such as Randy Weston, Sean Jones, Danilo Perez, Omar Sosa, and many others. As a member of the In the Tradition Jazz Ensemble under Olujimi Tafatooa and leader of his own dynamic quartet, Karim captivates audiences at venues across Detroit with his soulful and sophisticated sound.