Luther Allison

Luther S. Allison is a Charlotte-born multi-instrumentalist specializing in piano and drum set, known for his deep roots in Black American music and his rapidly rising presence in the New York jazz scene. After earning his BM in Studio Music & Jazz from the University of Tennessee in 2017 and his MM in Jazz Studies from Michigan State University in 2019, he made his professional recording debut at 19 on Michael Dease’s Father Figure for Posi-Tone Records. He went on to appear on multiple Posi-Tone releases—playing both piano and drums—before contributing to Samara Joy’s Grammy-winning 2023 album Tight. Allison performed with Joy on the Grammy stage the year prior, further establishing himself as a versatile and in-demand accompanist. Now based in New York City, he performs regularly at renowned venues such as Dizzy’s, Smalls, Mezzrow, Smoke, Minton’s, and more, appearing alongside artists including Rodney Whitaker, Jazzmeia Horn, The Baylor Project, Gregory Tardy, and Ulysses Owens Jr. His work also extends internationally through clinics and workshops in Mexico, China, Japan, Switzerland, St. Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago, and he continues to cultivate his own voice as the leader of his trio, sextet, and octet.

At Sound Collective, Allison brings a holistic, artist-first approach to teaching piano, ensemble playing, and contemporary jazz language. His classes blend technical development with listening, groove, and stylistic nuance, helping students better understand the lineage of Black American music while strengthening their improvisational and compositional instincts. Drawing from his experience across major stages, recording sessions, and educational residencies, he offers practical guidance on musicianship, professionalism, and creative discipline. Students studying with Allison gain concrete tools for phrasing, harmony, time feel, and ensemble communication, along with a deeper appreciation for the cultural foundations that shape the music.