Hello!
Tim Grieme is a Nashville-based saxophonist, performing and teaching across jazz, classical, popular and contemporary styles. Whether performing for audiences or guiding learners, Tim draws from his diverse background to create intentional musical experiences.
Tim Grieme - Saxophonist, Educator & Performer
Performing
Tim Grieme is a saxophonist and improviser based in Nashville, Tennessee. He performs regularly with The Funk Junkies and the jazz ensemble Triple Dare, and collaborates with a range of other Nashville musicians and groups. Tim has played at local Nashville venues including Gaylord Opryland, The Flamingo Cocktail Club, Whiskey Row, Acme Feed & Seed, Assembly Food Hall, The 1230 Club, The Analog, and Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. His performances are rooted in communication and melodic exploration, no matter the setting. Tim can be heard most notable playing lead alto on Dereck Brown's Album All Figured Out and on a few songs Pilgrimage released by the band Squatch.
Education & Training
Tim holds a Master of Music in Improvisation from The University of Michigan, where he studied with Andrew Bishop and received additional guidance and mentorship from Ellen Rowe, Ed Sarath, Marcus Elliott, and Nate Winn. While at Michigan, he was an active participant in a range of ensembles, including small groups, the UM Jazz Ensemble, and the Creative Arts Orchestra — opportunities that allowed him to perform with acclaimed artists like Kris Johnson, Caleb Wheeler Curtis, Kris Davis, Marshall Gilkes, Jeff Hamilton, Jeff “Tain” Watts, and Randy Brecker. He also performed at major venues and festivals, including the Detroit Jazz Festival and Dizzy’s Club in New York City.
He earned a Bachelor of Music from Grand Valley State University, studying with Dan Graser, Michael Drost, Tim Froncek, and Jordan VanHemert. During that time, he performed with the Ember Saxophone Quartet, GVSU Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Combos & Jazz Orchestra, and explored other projects outside of school with groups like 501 Swing Street, In The Blue, The Holland Concert Jazz Orchestra and Squatch.
Teaching
Tim is deeply committed to sharing his knowledge and helping students grow. He serves as Adjunct Saxophone Professor at Alabama A&M University, maintains a private studio, and teaches at Hume-Fogg Magnet High School, multiple schools in the Nashville metro public school system, and The Chewning School of Music. Across all settings, his focus is on fostering creativity, musicianship, and confidence in students of all ages.
Philosophy
Whether performing, teaching, or practicing, Tim brings curiosity, versatility, and musicality to everything he does. He aims to build bridges between tradition and innovation, inviting listeners and students alike to experience the joy of live music and the freedom of improvisation.