Chris Lewis

Chris Lewis is a multi award winning saxophonist, composer, educator, and bandleader. Known for his bold artistic voice and dynamic leadership, Lewis simultaneously leads his own quartet while maintaining an active schedule as a sideman. He is highly sought after by masters of the music, as well as his contemporaries.

Lewis is a member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and has performed with artists including Herbie Hancock, Christian McBride, Michael Bublé, Eric Reed, Terell Stafford, and Jeff “Tain” Watts, contemporaries Julius Rodriguez and Sean Mason, and premier ensembles such as the Maria Schneider Orchestra, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, the Mingus Big Band, the Count Basie Orchestra, John Beasley’s MONK’estra, and The Gil Evans Project. At the age of 29, Lewis can be heard on over 30 recordings. He can be seen in television series like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Godfather of Harlem, and The Gilded Age, as well as a prominent feature in Levi’s Vintage Fall campaign.

A dedicated educator, Lewis teaches students of all ages. Offering his expertise in saxophone, improvisation, and ensemble performance, he continues to help shape the future of jazz both on and off the bandstand. He’s served as a guest artist, clinician, and adjudicator for a host of jazz festivals and competitions, and maintains a private studio of students worldwide.

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Presentation(s):

• RESCHEDULED: Ted Nash Big Band

  Wednesday, January 7, 2026
  9:10 PM - 10:00 PM CST