Otto Montgomery is an 18-year-old pianist currently residing in New York City. A Berkeley, California native, Otto began playing music at 4 years old and has since developed a rich musical career. He’s played with various groups, including the highly acclaimed Berkeley High School Jazz Ensemble and Advanced Combos, and the California Jazz Conservatory’s Studio Band and Advanced High School Workshop. He was also a founding member of the 5-piece combo “Barn Band,” with whom he recorded an album.

Otto's classical piano journey began at age 4, and began pursuing jazz in highschool with the BHS jazz band. He continues to refine his jazz skills under the mentorship of pianist Peter Horvath. Otto has received top honors in numerous piano competitions, including the American Prize, The US International Piano Duo Competition, and The Carmel Klavier International Concerto Competition.

While studying music and mathematics at Columbia University, Otto regularly performs gigs both in New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area. Some of his notable performances include Mr. Tipple’s SF, Yoshi’s Oakland, KCSM Radio, and the Berkeley High School Fashion Show. These experiences have greatly shaped his ability to perform, rehearse, and communicate with fellow musicians. 

Recently, in the summer of 2024, Otto toured Europe with the California Jazz Conservatory’s Studio Band, performing at renowned jazz festivals including North Sea, Umbria, and Vienne. This was followed by his participation in the Stanford Jazz Workshop, where he received instruction from world-class faculty such as George Cables, Taylor Eigsti, Matt Stevens, Obed Calvaire, Tivon Pennicott, and Caroline Davis. 

Previously, he attended the NYU Jazz Improv and Composition Workshop in 2023 and spent a week in Havana, Cuba, studying and performing with teachers and students from La Escuela Nacional de la Música. Otto has also attended the highly selective Oberlin Piano Festival and the Indiana University Piano Academy.

With a deep passion for both music, community, and self-expression, Otto looks forward to continuing his musical journey and sharing his love for the piano with audiences everywhere.