Willie Morris
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of St. Louis, saxophonist and composer Willie Morris emerges as a fresh and exciting force in jazz. Rooted deeply in the rich Black-American art forms flourishing in his city, Willie brings a dynamic and unique perspective to his craft. His profound passion for music began in childhood as a bedroom drummer and evolved through formal study as a saxophonist during his adolescent years and beyond.
Willie’s musical journey took him to prestigious institutions such as Eastern Illinois University and The Juilliard School, where he studied under renowned mentors including Dan Block, Ron Blake, Roxy Coss, Bruce Williams, Sam Fagaly, Marc Cary, Ulysses Owens, Paul Johnston, Scott Hesse, and Frank Kimbrough. These experiences not only refined his technical skills but also helped him develop his own artistic identity, shaping his contributions to the music world.
Early in his career, Willie Morris has already had remarkable opportunities performing and recording alongside esteemed artists like Randy Brecker, John Clayton, Jason Marsalis, Montez Coleman, Josh Lawrence, Donald Edwards, Boris Kozlov, Rudy Royston, and Art Hirahara. These collaborations have broadened his musical horizons and enriched his artistic voice.
Willie’s debut album, Conversation Starter (Posi-Tone 2023), showcased his exceptional abilities alongside veteran musicians. His follow-up, Attentive Listening (Posi-Tone 2024), further revealed his depth and range. On his latest release, Unbound Inner (Posi-Tone 2025), Morris leads with remarkable technical precision, a well-centered saxophone tone, sharp articulation, and complete command of his instrument. However, it is the profound emotional depth of his artistry that leaves the most lasting impression.
Beyond technical skill, Willie aspires to use his music as a bridge to connect people, expressing unspoken emotions and fostering understanding across diverse backgrounds. Through his captivating sound, he aims to break barriers and create unity via the universal language of music. As his artistry continues to evolve, Willie Morris is poised to captivate hearts and minds worldwide.
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of St. Louis, saxophonist and composer Willie Morris emerges as a fresh and exciting force in jazz. Rooted deeply in the rich Black-American art forms flourishing in his city, Willie brings a dynamic and unique perspective to his craft. His profound passion for music began in childhood as a bedroom drummer and evolved through formal study as a saxophonist during his adolescent years and beyond.
Willie’s musical journey took him to prestigious institutions such as Eastern Illinois University and The Juilliard School, where he studied under renowned mentors including Dan Block, Ron Blake, Roxy Coss, Bruce Williams, Sam Fagaly, Marc Cary, Ulysses Owens, Paul Johnston, Scott Hesse, and Frank Kimbrough. These experiences not only refined his technical skills but also helped him develop his own artistic identity, shaping his contributions to the music world.
Early in his career, Willie Morris has already had remarkable opportunities performing and recording alongside esteemed artists like Randy Brecker, John Clayton, Jason Marsalis, Montez Coleman, Josh Lawrence, Donald Edwards, Boris Kozlov, Rudy Royston, and Art Hirahara. These collaborations have broadened his musical horizons and enriched his artistic voice.
Willie’s debut album, Conversation Starter (Posi-Tone 2023), showcased his exceptional abilities alongside veteran musicians. His follow-up, Attentive Listening (Posi-Tone 2024), further revealed his depth and range. On his latest release, Unbound Inner (Posi-Tone 2025), Morris leads with remarkable technical precision, a well-centered saxophone tone, sharp articulation, and complete command of his instrument. However, it is the profound emotional depth of his artistry that leaves the most lasting impression.
Beyond technical skill, Willie aspires to use his music as a bridge to connect people, expressing unspoken emotions and fostering understanding across diverse backgrounds. Through his captivating sound, he aims to break barriers and create unity via the universal language of music. As his artistry continues to evolve, Willie Morris is poised to captivate hearts and minds worldwide.