Originally from Raleigh, Mississippi, Kelton Norris is a D.C.-based drummer and music educator renowned for his dynamic and collaborative style, which has made him a staple of the D.C. jazz scene. Kelton teaches at multiple institutions across the tri-state area, including Sidwell Friends School, the International School of Music, and Shepherd University. His teaching philosophy combines a deep understanding of music history and instrumental technique with a personalized approach tailored to each student’s goals and aspirations.

In addition to his teaching, Kelton maintains a full-time performance schedule and has shared the stage with an impressive roster of artists, including Sharon Clark, José André Montaño, Jessica Boykin-Settles, Hamiet Bluiett, Cyrus Chestnut, Vincent Gardner, Allyn Johnson, Afro-Blue, Levon Mikaelian, Rodney Whitaker, Warren Wolf, Thad Wilson, Paul Bollenback, Herman Burney Jr., Ron Blake, Victor Provost, Elijah Jamal Balbed, Shannon Gunn, and many others. As a member of the EJB Quartet, Kelton won the 2020 D.C. Prix, an international jazz competition presented by the D.C. Jazz Festival.

Kelton holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Master’s degree in Jazz Performance from Northern Illinois University.