Todd Williams

Todd Williams is an Assistant Professor of Music Education at Indiana Wesleyan University, combining academic leadership with a renowned career in jazz performance and composition. He previously served as Music Director of Times Square Church (2000-2005) and taught at Tuxedo Park School (2007-2012). His work spans performances with the Wynton Marsalis Quintet/Septet (1987-1993), Jazz at Lincoln Center (1989-2016), and Grammy-winning recordings. He holds a BM in Jazz/Commercial Composition from Manhattan School of Music (1997), a Divinity degree from Duke University (1996), and MDiv coursework from Indiana University.

• Education:
• BM Jazz/Commercial Composition, Manhattan School of Music (1997)
• Divinity Degree, Duke University (1996)
• MDiv Coursework, Indiana University
• Research Interests: Jazz pedagogy, ensemble performance techniques, music composition, and historical influences in jazz education.

Williams has performed globally at venues like Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl, and his recordings include Lift Up Your Heads (2015). He has been honored with ASCAP awards, White House performances, and leadership roles at institutions like the National Jazz Museum of Harlem and Juilliard Jazz Orchestra.

• Awards:
• Four-time ASCAP Plus Award for Composers
• Grammy Award via Christian McBride Big Band's The Good Feeling
• Marion Anderson Award Concert (2015)

His career bridges performance innovation with educational mentorship, emphasizing jazz tradition through modern pedagogical approaches. Current initiatives include curriculum development in music education and collaborations with international jazz ensembles.