Early Life and Education

Christopher Stephen "Chris" Botti was born on October 12, 1962, in Portland, Oregon, and raised in Corvallis. He began playing the trumpet at age nine and was inspired to pursue a career in music after hearing Miles Davis’s performance of “My Funny Valentine.”

Botti attended Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, where he studied under prominent jazz educators such as David Baker, Bill Adam, Woody Shaw, and George Coleman. During his time at the university, he honed his craft and developed a deep commitment to music through both academic training and hands-on experience.

Early Career and Influences

After college, Botti built his reputation as a versatile and reliable supporting musician. He performed and toured with legends including Paul Simon, Sting, and Joni Mitchell, learning the intricacies of musical collaboration across genres. These associations contributed significantly to his growth as an artist.

In the early years of his career, Botti often took on challenging gigs in rough neighborhoods. Despite the hardships, his enthusiasm never waned. Reflecting on that time, Botti recalled advice from a mentor: “Talent can be shaped and manipulated, but if you don’t have drive, you’re never going to have a career.” It was this unwavering drive that propelled him forward.

Jazz and Musical Philosophy

Chris Botti is celebrated for bringing a refined, evocative approach to jazz that resonates with a wide audience. Whether performing original compositions or reinterpreting standards, Botti brings a unique sensibility that bridges traditional and contemporary styles.

In an interview with Smart Talks, Botti elaborated on his connection with jazz and the importance of devotion to one’s craft. “Learning an instrument can teach you to not be afraid to do one thing great,” he said. “At a certain point, you’re committed to something to an extent that you would do anything, and I’ve always been that way since I was a kid.”