Tia Fuller

Grammy-nominated jazz musician[11][12][13]

What is Tia Fuller known for?

Tia Fuller, born on March 27, 1976, in Aurora, Colorado, stands as an outstanding alumna of Gateway High School. She is an accomplished saxophonist, composer, and educator, renowned within the American jazz scene.

Born into a family of jazz musicians, Tia's parents Fred and Elthopia Fuller had a significant influence on her musical journey. She began playing classical piano at the age of three, flute at nine, and saxophone in high school. Tia's musical talent blossomed in Gateway High School, Aurora, where she first played the saxophone before continuing her music education at Spelman College, Atlanta, under the guidance of Joseph Jennings.

Over the years, Tia has performed with greats like Ray Charles and jazz artists such as Esperanza Spalding, Terri Lyne Carrington, and the Jon Faddis Jazz Orchestra, among others. She has also led her quartet, which includes Shamie Royston on piano, Kim Thompson on drums, and Miriam Sullivan on bass, and with whom she recorded albums like 'Pillar of Strength'.

Notably, Tia's impressive portfolio includes touring with Beyoncé's all-female band and being a faculty member at Berklee College of Music. Apart from jazz music, she also featured in Pixar's animated feature Soul, where she played an alto saxophone for the character Dorothea Williams, and her appearance influenced the character's design.

Visit Tia Fuller's personal website for more information on her music and journey.