Keith Pitner

Member Since: 2006 | Location: Charleston | Page Views: 1,885

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About Me

Trombonist Keith Pitner has been described by the Dundee Weekly Journal as “...technically and musically astounding.” Originally from the Chicago area, he studied under acclaimed trombonist Jim Pugh at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he was the recipient of the Doris Vance Harmon award, the School of Music's only full-ride scholarship. He also holds a Master's Degree in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership from the same institution. He has performed a wide range of music including classical, jazz, funk, and rock with many great musicians including a stint as Lead Trombone with the Buddy Rich Big Band as well as Lead Trombone with the Pete Ellman Big Band. Through his musical journeys he’s had the pleasure to perform alongside many luminaries including Howard Levy, Dave Weckl, Jeff Coffin, Grace Kelly, Andy Martin, Randy Brecker, Tommy Igoe, John Fedchock, Wayne Bergeron, Eric Miyashiro, Denis DiBlasio, Marvin Hamlisch, Monica Mancini, and also played in the Maynard Ferguson Alumni Big Band. He led the jazz groove band The Hatters Mad and released two albums with the group, Commence the Jigglin' and A Change in Color. His latest album is the 2021 release The Twelve Grooves of Christmas with the Pete Ellman Big Band. Now based in the Charleston, SC area, he can be seen regularly as Lead Trombone with the Charleston Jazz Orchestra. Besides being an active performer and composer, Keith is a passionate educator and clinician and serves as Band Director at Cane Bay Middle School in Summerville, SC.