About
A Voice Shaped
by the Tradition
Andrew Wittmer is a jazz saxophonist pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies at Michigan State University, one of the premier jazz programs in the country. A multi-woodwind specialist with a deep command of the saxophone family, Andrew has developed a lyrical voice rooted in the bebop tradition while remaining open to the full breadth of contemporary jazz.
His musical journey began at the piano at age four before he discovered the saxophone in fifth grade. He specialized early on baritone saxophone — developing the harmonic sensibility and rhythmic depth that instrument demands — before transitioning to alto in his junior year of high school. The move proved transformative — within a year, he was selected for the North American Saxophone Alliance High School Jazz Solo Competition, finishing third nationally. As a member of the Northwest High School Jazz Orchestra from Waukee, Iowa, he earned two DownBeat Student Music Awards (2023, 2025), placing him among the top high school jazz musicians in the country.
Andrew has performed at venues across the Midwest, including the Noce Jazz Club in Des Moines and stages throughout Michigan. He is equally at home in the big band chair and leading his own small group. In addition to saxophone, he performs on clarinet and flute.
When he’s not on the bandstand, Andrew shares his passion for the music through private instruction, working with students ranging from complete beginners to pre-college competitors.
