Versatile musician Douglas Walter has an excellent international reputation as a marimba and vibraphone artist in both the classical and jazz fields. As the first vibraphonist-marimbist to win first prize in the Concert Artists Guild (CAG) Competition in New York City, Walter has performed over 300 solo recitals or concerti in Brazil, Canada, England, France, Greece, Lithuania, Norway, Switzerland, Ukraine and the United States. His CAG solo debut recital in Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall received a favorable review in The New York Times.
Walter's repertoire includes contemporary works; over 40 commissions he has premiered; personal transcriptions of Bach, Bartók and Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco; and solo improvisations on standards or originals. His multiple solo recitals at Percussive Arts Society International Conventions have received standing ovations. A champion of the works of Dan Levitan, Walter has commissioned new music via the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Canada Council for the Arts and state arts organizations.
Walter's jazz achievements include recording with the University of North Texas' One O'Clock Lab Band on the CD LAB 75, which was the first university recording nominated for a Grammy Award. He has recorded with the Keystick Duo (vibes and piano), The Modest Jazz Trio (vibes, bass and guitar), University of Colorado Faculty Jazz Quintet, Lawless Jazz Ensemble and Pagan-Walter Duo. Walter's unique solo improvisations on marimba and vibes receive a warm reception from both musicians and the general public. His flamenco fusion concerts with Steve Mullins (guitarist in Rim of the Well) truly move audiences.
Walter graduated summa cum laude from the University of North Texas with a double degree in music education and music theory. He worked with Charles Owen for two masters degrees at the University of Michigan and Alan Abel for his DMA at Temple University. His Bachelor of Arts in French Literature and Western Civilization was designated summa cum laude at the University of Colorado.
As Director of Percussion Studies at the University of Colorado, Walter teaches undergraduate through doctoral students from around the world and directs the marimba, Latin jazz and percussion ensembles.
