Home » Member Page

Otto Gardner

Otto Gardner is an American bass player and teacher.

About Me

Otto Gardner is an American bass player and teacher. Otto's 40 years as a musician includes playing, teaching, and recording throughout the Northeast, California and Canada.

Otto is a founding member of Schenectady’s Empire Jazz Orchestra, in which he has played for more than 22 years, along with such Jazz Master guests as Jimmy Heath, Lou Soloff, Curtis Fuller, Rufus Reid, and Benny Golson. He has also played with scores of artists including James Spalding, J. R. Montrose, Arthur Rhames, Buddy Greco, Margaret Whiting, Hal Galper, Nick Brignola, Randy Brecker, Lee Shaw, and Lincoln Mayorga.

In addition to performance and recording, Otto's teaching experience spans 3 decades. He has happily shared his talents and insights through individual bass lessons whenever his schedule allowed. SInce 2010 Otto has been a member of the Bard College community as an adjunct professor in the Jazz Department.

Otto lives in the Village of Chatham in New York State's Hudson Valley.

Contact Me

My Jazz Story

Get more of a good thing!

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