BEHIND THE MUSIC OF ROSS MARGITZA

Dr. Ross Margitza is a distinguished pianist, trumpeter, composer, arranger, and educator. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, he began his musical journey under the guidance of his father and grandfather, both professional pianists. He started playing piano at age six and trumpet at age ten. Inspired by Oscar Peterson's recording of “West Side Story,” Ross pursued a career in jazz. 

 

He holds a Bachelor of Music from Michigan State University, a Master of Music from Northern Illinois University, and a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Texas at Austin. 

 

An award-winning pianist, Dr. Margitza clinched first place in the 2024 Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition and second place in the 2009 Phillips Jazz Piano Competition. He has performed alongside acclaimed musicians such as Russell Malone, Jon Faddis, Phil Woods, Patti Austin, Wess "Warmdaddy" Anderson, Roy McCurdy, Antonio Hart, Lynn Roberts, and Christian McBride. His credits also include performances with the Gerald Wilson Orchestra, Detroit Jazz Orchestra, Glenn Miller Orchestra, and Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. 

 

Internationally, Ross has performed in Japan, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Spain, and Canada, as well as major U.S. cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington D.C., and New York. From 2017 to 2022, he served as the Director of Instrumental Music at Flintridge Preparatory School near Los Angeles. Currently residing in Austin, TX, Dr. Margitza is the Director of Instrumental Music at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School and a Jazz Piano Professor at Huston-Tillotson University.