A Life in Music

Briefly introduce yourself and your music and collaborations:

Born in New York and raised in North Carolina, I began playing flute in junior high school. Because my family could not afford private lessons, I taught myself to play songs by ear, inspired by the jazz, blues, marches, R&B, soul and gospel music that filled our home.

After studying music and art at Hampton University, I moved to the Washington, D.C., area and expanded from flute to alto, soprano and tenor saxophone. I have since shared the stage with artists including George Duke, Stanley Clarke, Joe Chambers, Kathy Sledge, Yolanda Adams, The Manhattans, Tom Browne and Ray Charles.

In addition to being a professor and archaeologist specializing in ancient music culture, I am an active performer and composer. I am part of the songwriting and production duo 2 Nice Guys with Terry Thompson and perform with the FROG Project, The Teddy Burgh Trio, Mangroove, The Port City All-Stars and other local groups, as well as a solo artist.

My latest project combines painting and music by pairing my original artwork with soundtracks I compose for each piece.

Where can we find you this fall?

I’ll be performing with Mangroove at the Cameron Art Museum on October 1st. 

What’s your personal creative process as a musician and composer?

I like to read, think and listen. I enjoy reading about a wide variety of subjects, especially those that are new or unfamiliar. I like the challenge, which, of course, makes me think in different ways. I also like to listen to music from varied genres, lectures, podcasts and audiobooks. These all influence how and why I compose and play.

What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?

Practice. Make practice fun. Use your creativity. Don’t avoid the areas in which you may struggle. Listen to different artists, genres, styles, etc. Play as much as you can. Read. Read about different subjects, people, topics, etc. You’ll be surprised at what it does for you and your approach to music. Have confidence in yourself. Most of all, have fun!

What do you like most about the music scene in Wilmington?

The fans and audiences. I’ve had the opportunity to play for people who really want to hear what you have to say musically. That means a lot. I’ve also met and played with musicians who are incredible humans. These experiences are beyond words.

Visit teddyburgh.com/projects-8

Sound Bites

Your musical icon:

I have several icons from different genres: Charlie Parker, Hubert Laws, Ella Fitzgerald, Sonny Rollins and Debra Cox.

Favorite venue to play in Wilmington?

I have more than one: CAM and private parties because of their intimacy.

Best post-set meal?

I don’t have a particular go-to. I’m extremely particular about what I eat, so I typically prepare my own meals. If I’m eating out, depending on how late it is, Sealevel City Vegan. Thai food could work.

Favorite song you like performing right now?

It depends on the genre. Jazz: “Stella by Starlight” by Victor Young; R&B: “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” written by Eugene McDaniels and sung by Roberta Flack.