Dr. Todd Williams

Saxophonist, clarinetist, flautist and clinician

Dr. Todd Williams hails from among the finest woodwind artists in today’s music scene. As such he is sought as a saxophonist, clarinetist, flautist and clinician. He is an Associate Professor of Music Education at Indiana Wesleyan University where he serves as instructor of the IWU Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo and many other duties. He has appeared as a guest lecturer and conductor for the Juilliard Jazz Orchestra. He earned his doctoral degree in music education at the Jacob School of Music, Indiana University.

Originally known for his saxophone and clarinet work with the Wynton Marsalis Quintet, Septet and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Williams has been honored with such positions as Assistant Professor at Queens College in New York City and Music Director of Times Square Church where he has penned a wide variety of contemporary gospel choral works. His flagship composition, “We Proclaim Him,” has been a featured international favorite since 2003. The same may be heard, among other originals, on the TSC Music label.

Williams has performed at most every prestigious venue in the US and abroad from multiple performances at the White House to Carnegie Hall to the Hollywood Bowl. He has been a featured artist in Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Canada, Mexico and South America. Extensive recording with Marsalis decorates his list of accomplishments as well as guest appearances with artists including Sir Roland Hanna, Harry Connick, Jr., Jon Hendricks, Scotty Barnhart, Terrell Stafford, Jon Faddis, Jeff Hamilton, Marcus Roberts, Michael Mossman, The Newburgh Symphony Orchestra, The Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, The Marion Philharmonic Orchestra, Darin Atwater, Slide Hampton, and Grammy Award winner Christian McBride.

Williams is a four-time recipient of ASCAP’s Plus Award for Composers. His latest jazz recording is Introducing Quartet Trio.

Quartet Trio

Interview by Dave Bixler, Liner Notes