Markus Rutz

Biography

Markus Rutz is a Chicago-born jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader whose career spans over three decades. He began playing trumpet at the age of nine and pursued formal studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Berklee College of Music, and the University of New Orleans, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts. Returning to Chicago, Rutz gradually established himself through performances in bars, restaurants, and eventually prominent clubs and concert venues, developing a signature bluesy, soulful trumpet sound often described as 'gorgeous.'

Rutz is known for his original compositions and arrangements, frequently leading ensembles that showcase both his music and the talents of musicians from Chicago, New York, and his formative years in New Orleans. His discography includes seven albums as a leader, with notable releases such as 'Blueprints Figure One: Frameworks' (2019), which was featured on NPR’s Morning Edition and considered for a Grammy nomination, and its follow-up 'Blueprints Figure Two: New Designs' (2020). His work has received critical acclaim, international radio play, and recognition from outlets like Jazz Weekly and Chicago Jazz Magazine. In 2023, he released 'Storybook,' a concept album reflecting personal and universal narratives.

Rutz's musical style blends modern jazz with elements of blues, swing, bop, and Latin influences, often incorporating Cuban percussion and West Coast Cool. He is also an educator and composer-in-residence for The Rose Theatre Co. in Washington, DC, and continues to perform, compose, and collaborate with top musicians worldwide, contributing significantly to Chicago’s vibrant jazz scene.

Fun Facts

• Rutz was commissioned by The Rose Theatre Co. in Washington, DC to arrange and orchestrate a reimagined 'Rhapsody in Blue,' leading to his appointment as composer-in-residence.
• His album 'Blueprints Figure One: Frameworks' was featured on NPR’s Morning Edition and was under Grammy nomination consideration.
• Rutz’s music has received international radio play, notably in France and Germany.
• He leads a band called Markus Rutz & Third Coast Sounds and is active in composing thematic music about Chicago, profiles of people in his life, and holiday music.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Richard Davis - Studied under Davis during post-secondary education; Davis is a renowned bassist and educator. (Guided principles applied in Rutz's bandleading and compositions.) [College years (dates not specified)]
• Ellis Marsalis - Mentor and former professor during studies at the University of New Orleans. (Influence evident in Rutz's approach to jazz and improvisation.) [College years (dates not specified)]
• Harold Batiste - Mentor and professor at the University of New Orleans. (Helped shape Rutz's compositional voice.) [College years (dates not specified)]

Key Collaborators

• Samuel Peters - Frequent collaborator and bassist in the Markus Rutz Quintet. (Live performances and recordings, including recent quintet albums.) [2010s–present]
• Kyle Swan - Percussionist and regular member of the Markus Rutz Quintet. (Live performances and recordings.) [2010s–present]
• Bill Cessna - Pianist in the Markus Rutz Quintet. (Live performances, including at The Jazz Showcase.) [2020s]
• Victor Goines - Guest saxophonist for special performances. (Featured in Jazz Showcase performances.) [2020s]
• Christopher McBride - Alto saxophonist featured in live performances. (Brooklyn performance, June 2023.) [2023]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. The Musicianer (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)
2. East to West (Blueprints - Figure Two: New Designs)
3. The Compass (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)
4. Gusto, as in Mucho (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)
5. Very Marie (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)
6. Limbo (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)
7. September in the Rain (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)
8. Syndrome (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)
9. Shipmates (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)
10. Segment (Blueprints - Figure One: Frameworks)

External Links

• Spotify