Chris Tate is a modern jazz cellist, improviser, educator, and recording artist redefining the role of the cello in contemporary music. Based in Boston and studying at Berklee College of Music, Tate has quickly emerged as a distinctive voice on the instrument—bridging classical and jazz tradition, modern improvisation, and contemporary string playing with a highly personal sound.

His playing blends classical technique with improvisation, groove, and contemporary harmony. He has performed and collaborated with acclaimed artists across today’s jazz landscape, including Vincent Herring, Adam Blackstone, Derrick Hodge, Victor Wooten, John Clayton, Alexa Tarantino, Marcus Printup, Tony Trischka, Eddie Barbash, and Tia Fuller.

Beyond jazz, his work has brought him onto stages with artists such as Usher, Jeezy, Akon, Q-Tip, Rick Ross, 2chainz, Fabolous, TI, and Mannie Fresh.