Pianist ● Writer ● Composer

Throughout his critically acclaimed recordings as a leader and as a collaborator with numerous jazz figures, Theodore Witte has masterfully walked the line of writer and player, proving himself time and again to be a composer of rare vision as well as a highly versatile, powerfully expressive pianist.

 

Theodore is recognized for his “ingenuity and virtuosity” Theodore’s expansive body of work ranges from solo piano pieces to arrangements for symphony orchestra. He has released six albums of original compositions: Real World (1997); Here and Now (2001); One Sky (2007), Another Look (2010), hailed as “a model for modern jazz piano albums” by ICON magazine; and The River (2013) which features Theodore’s sixty-minute suite inspired by his travels in Africa. Theodore’s latest recording Originations (Origin Records) dynamically synthesizes Middle Eastern and other world music influences, classical compositional elements and improvisation. 

 

The project received unanimous critical praise on its release including being a Downbeat Magazine Editor’s publication. Theodore has worked with such jazz luminaries and elite large ensembles as Freddie Hubbard, Joe Locke, Andy Narell, Jon Faddis, Paquito D’Rivera, and The Chicago Chamber Musicians among others. Both as a sideman and fronting his various ensembles, Theodore has performed at premier venues. He has collaborated extensively with Ramsey Lewis. Theodore provided the orchestral writing for Wish Upon A Star (Motéma) featuring Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra.