When it comes to Chris Botti, the famous jazz publication All About Jazz regards Chris as, “a gifted instrumentalist, a talented composer, and a charismatic performer.” From a very young age Chris showed a strong aptitude for music. Chris Botti was born in Portland, Oregon during the year 1962 to a mother who is both a classically trained pianist and piano teacher. He began playing trumpet at the age of nine, and by twelve knew he wanted to pursue that as a career after hearing Miles Davis play “My Funny Valentine.”

By 1981, Chris was chosen by McDonalds to participate in their All-American High School Jazz Band, where he performed at the famous Carnegie Hall for the first time. Botti would go on to attend Indiana University School of Music where he studied under jazz educator, David Baker. During his senior year at Indiana University, Chris left for short touring stints with Frank Sinatra and Buddy Rich.

Botti’s first solo album, “First Wish,” would eventually be released in 1995 under Verve Records, which ultimately led to him signing with Columbia Records. Chris Botti has received various Grammy Nominations and in 2013, won his first Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Album for his album titled, “Impressions.” Today you can find Chris Botti touring and performing for audiences all across the country sharing his incredible gift. 

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