George W. Russell, Jr. is a native of Pittsburgh, PA. He attended Duquesne University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education in 1988. He continued his studies in Boston at the New England Conservatory of Music, receiving a Masters degree in Jazz Studies in 1990. Among his many accomplish-ments, George Russell has competed as a finalist in the Martial Solal International Jazz Piano Competition in Paris, France. He received the 2001 Gospel Music Award, given by the New England Conservatory of Music, for his contribution to gospel music in the New England area. George served as Minister of Music/Chief Musician for Jubilee (formerly New Covenant) Christian Church in Boston for 15 years. George Russell resides in Boston, MA, with his wife and three children, where he is highly esteemed and sought after as a gospel and jazz pianist. He is Associate Professor of Harmony at the Berklee College of Music, and is the former Chairman of the Jazz Department at the New England Conservatory's Music Extension Division. George performs his original program "Clap Your Hands", a narrative concert about gospel music in America, in several school systems in MA, under the auspices of Young Audiences of Massachusetts. During the summer, he educates gifted high school musicians at the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Arts where he is the Chair of Jazz Studies. George W. Russell, Jr.'s performances range from a solo piano performance, to a groove-oriented jazz trio, to a soulful, fresh sounding eight-piece band with and without vocalists, that arouses the listener's intellect, and more importantly touches the soul. George also offers various music workshops for educational institutions and churches, and has founded the Christian Musicians Fellowship. George W. Russell's recordings include: Self-titled recording (2006) See Discography for more information. The Pianist & The Poet(2004) Features the poetry of Robyn L. Rease and the music of George W. Russell, Jr. All original poetry and music. Sandra Dowe & The George W. Russell, Jr. Trio (2003) Live recording featuring jazz vocalist Sandra Dowe Schlickness (2001) George's latest jazz trio recording, featuring Sean Skeete and Michael Russell on drums and Wesley Wirth on bass. Worship In The Style of "G" (2000) Original worship songs flavored with his jazz-influenced style. Communion, Vol. II, Hymns Plus (1998) Some of George's favorite hymns in his own jazz style. Playin' Praise (1995) The George W. Russell, Jr. Jazz Trio playing original gospel songs, featuring Michael Russell on drums and Wesley Wirth on bass. Communion, Vol. I (1994) A collection of original piano compositions, tastefully accented with violin accompaniment and some natural sounds, encouraging one to commune with God. Jesus Is The Cure (1994) A gospel recording entwining jazz, funk, R&B and ballad. The George Russell Trio (1991 - not currently in print) George's first jazz trio recording, featuring Tony Hall on drums and Wesley Wirth on bass.