
Piano/Keys/Composer
about
Ted Perry is a pianist, composer, and arranger known for his warm, soulful touch and emphasis on lyrical melodies, grooves, and storytelling. His musical voice blends elements of blues, jazz, folk, and singer‑songwriter traditions, and his writing spans solo piano, string ensembles, jazz ensemble, studio orchestra, and small‑group formats.
Ted began studying piano at age eight and later trained with classical concert pianist Anne Chamberlain. Improvised music captured his imagination in high school, shaping the foundation of his sound. He has performed with musicians such as Ray Vega, Ernie Watts, David Spinozza, Chuck Campbell, Paul Smoker, Drew Gress, Dave Santoro, Paul Asbell, and John Swana. He holds a Master of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music, and in 2024 recorded an EP of original compositions for piano trio with Drew Gress and Conor Meehan.
Based in Vermont, Ted is a familiar presence on the state’s festival and performance circuit, appearing at the Burlington Jazz Festival, Festival on the Green in Middlebury, and venues including the Town Hall Theater, SEABA, 126, and the Black Box Theater. He has also performed at the Rochester Jazz Festival in New York and frequently travels for performances, including appearances at the Lizard Lounge in Boston and various venues in the Berkshires.
In addition to his solo and ensemble work, Ted has served as a musical director and arranger for local groups such as Alternate Take and has collaborated with many Vermont musicians, including work with singer‑songwriter Ryan Montbleu. Alongside his own compositions, he is increasingly sought after for transcription and arranging projects for soloists and ensembles across a range of musical styles.
