Home » Jazz Musicians » Keith Pitner

Keith Pitner

Studying music since the age of 10, trombonist Keith Pitner has been described by the Dundee Weekly Journal as "...technically astounding and musically refreshing." He won the Illinois High School Association's Best Trombonist award two years in a row in high school and also played in the All-State Honors Jazz Band in those two years. Originally from Algonquin, IL, Keith now studies and performs in Champaign, IL, attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in pursuit of a Music Education degree and studying trombone under Jim Pugh. At the University of Illinois he was the recipient of the Doris Vance Harmon scholarship, the School of Music's only four year full-ride scholarship. He has played at jazz clubs, malls, weddings, funerals, church services, hotels, and many other places where music is appreciated. He has shared the stage with great musicians such as Maynard Furgeson, Marvin Hamlisch, and Monica Mancini. He also teaches private lessons to young trombone students in hopes to help kids of all ages learn how much fun and rewarding playing a musical instrument can be. He also leads the jazz groove band The Hatters Mad, which has put out two albums, Commence the Jigglin' in 2006 and A Change in Color in 2008.

Tags

8
Album Review

The Pete Ellman Big Band: The Twelve Grooves of Christmas

Read "The Twelve Grooves of Christmas" reviewed by Nicholas F. Mondello


As we enter the Holidays, the airwaves and digital streams flow with seasonal fare of all types of genres. And, once we ring in the New Year, said music heads back into hibernation until the next Thanksgiving and December roll around. The Pete Ellman Big Band's The Twelve Grooves of Christmas is such a fine recording that it might not be surprising for listeners to listen to it year around. The effort is that good. This high-energy ...

5
Album Review

Pete Ellman: For Pete's Ache

Read "For Pete's Ache" reviewed by Nicholas F. Mondello


Long a fixture throughout Chicagoland, the Ellman name is synonymous with all things musical. No “ache" at all, this album is a fun big-band romp. There is some outstanding ensemble and solo work and the various terrific arrangements bring the best out of a superb, engaged ensemble. The opener, “High Speed Pursuit," is a whirlwind burner which demonstrates the swing, muscle, and solo talent of this fine ensemble. Think “Naked Gun" on speed. The swing spirit is ...

Read more articles
Primary Instrument

Trombone

Willing to teach

Intermediate to advanced

Credentials/Background

With a Music Education degree from the University of Illinois, I've spent as much time honing my teaching skills as I have my playing. I believe it is my duty to pass my knowledge and love for music to students looking for a means of expression and something real and personal. Contact me for more information.

Music

Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson

For Pete's Ache

One Too Tree Records
2021

buy

A Change In Color

Unknown label
2008

buy

Get more of a good thing!

Our weekly newsletter highlights our top stories, our special offers, and upcoming jazz events near you.