Paul Nelson is an active trombonist, composer, arranger, and music educator in the Los Angeles area. Paul has appeared on dozens of recordings and albums for TV, film, and commercial records for groups and artists around the country. His musical career began in Athens, Georgia, where he began arranging and recording for local groups and Atlanta artists of various genres. Additionally, he managed and composed for Athens-based band Misnomer, an eclectic, ten-piece collective performing original music in modern funk styles.

Currently, Paul leads his own creative project, 'Paul Nelson's Big Ol' Band,' a 17-piece orchestra featuring original music and arrangements. He also composes for a small group 'Paul Nelson and Friends.' As an educator, Paul currently serves as Director of Jazz Bands at Brentwood School. Additionally, he maintains a private studio of low brass musicians and aspiring music producers. He has shared the stage with bands and leaders such as Bob Mintzer Big Band, Dave Slonaker Big Band, Bill Holman, John Daversa, Ebi, the Santa Monica Symphony, Patrice Rushen, Futurebirds and Bret McKenzie. In 2020, Futurebirds album 'Teamwork,' a record in which Paul arranged the horn arrangements, was nominated by Downbeat Magazine as one of the best albums of 2020 and mentioned by Rolling Stone Magazine for its 'psychedelia and twang.'   
Most recently, Paul has appeared on commercial recordings, television shows, singles, and albums by the likes of Ringo Starr, Troy Laureta, Shea Diamond, Billy Porter, Paramount's 'Rise of the Pink Ladies,' and more.