Alton Merrell is a pianist extraordinaire, educator, composer, and music producer.

He leads his own group "Alton Merrell & Company" an instrumental and vocal ensemble incorporating jazz, contemporary gospel, funk, and classical music styles in their repertoire. The mission of his group is to create music that will minister love, healing, joy, deliverance and peace to people around the world. Alton's latest award winning CD "You're The Reason" embodies this vision.

Alton is president of Minstrel Enterprises LLC., a music production company providing concerts, workshops, music instruction, consulting, composing, arranging, and studio recording services.

Alton holds a Master of Music Degree in piano performance with an emphasis in Jazz and Classical Piano from Youngstown State University. He also holds a Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Education graduating Cum Laude. He is currently on full scholarship at the University of Pittsburgh pursuing a PhD in music while serving as professor of jazz history and arranging.

Alton has received numerous honors including: Gospel Jazz Artist of the Year, American Gospel Music Award, Best New Gospel Jazz Artist & Producer and Captital Jazz Festival Competition Finalist (2008).

Mr. Merrell has also performed with jazz artists: Wynton Marsallis, Sean Jones, Benny Golson, Slide Hampton, James Moody, Phil Woods, Marvin Stamm, Maria Schneider, Ivan Lins, Kenny Burrell, Billy Pierrce, Conrad Herwig, Leslie Lewis, Frank Foster, Roger Humphries, and Jim Rupp. He is currently a member of the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra under the diirection of Sean Jones and Mike Tomaro. Alton has also been a member and soloist with, the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, Cleveland State Jazz Heritage Orchestra, Pittsburgh Concert Chorale, YSU All-Star Alumni Jazz Ensemble, Warren Philharmonic Orchestra, and the OMEA Intercollegiate All-Star Jazz Ensemble.