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Keith Pitner

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.

The Pete Ellman Big Band: The Twelve Grooves of Christmas

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

by Nicholas F. Mondello
December 17, 2021

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 ...

Album Review

Pete Ellman: For Pete's Ache

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

by Nicholas F. Mondello
February 24, 2021

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 ...