About Terry Koger

Terry Koger, a native of Trenton, New Jersey, has dedicated his life to the art of jazz and music education. Beginning his musical journey on piano and later transitioning to alto saxophone, Terry developed a passion for improvisation and teaching under the guidance of Thomas Grice. His early exposure to jazz inspired a deep interest in the history and contributions of Black Americans to music, which he pursued academically under renowned scholars Dr. Samuel A. Floyd, Dr. Eileen Southern, and Dr. Dominique René de Lerma.  

A graduate of Morgan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and a minor in Musicology, Terry’s research has been published in the *Black Music Research Journal* and *The Black Perspective in Music Journal*. As a performer, Terry has led his ensembles, the TKQ and the Terry Koger Sextet, at prominent venues such as An Die Musik, Keystone Korner, The Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival, and many others. Known for his innovative improvisation and ability to connect with audiences, he has also performed with acclaimed groups like the Eubie Blake Big Band and Carl Grubbs Quintet.  

Beyond performing, Terry’s volunteer work spans three decades, bringing music to nursing homes through themed programs and interactive activities like “Musical Bingo.” He has also taught privately and contributed to jazz education initiatives such as the Baltimore Jazz Education Project.  

As a writer, mentor, and advocate for jazz, Terry’s contributions extend to the Baltimore Jazz Alliance, the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival, and Jazz Flow Productions, where he has served as a performer, consultant, and educator. With his dedication to preserving and sharing the richness of jazz, Terry Koger continues to inspire and engage audiences of all ages through his artistry and passion for music.