Ron Wiltrout is a highly acclaimed percussionist and composer in the world of classical music. Born in 1972 in Charleston, South Carolina, Wiltrout grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. His father was a jazz pianist and his mother was a singer, and they both encouraged Wiltrout to pursue music as a career. Wiltrout began playing drums at the age of 10 and quickly developed a passion for percussion. He studied with local drummers and eventually went on to study at the College of Charleston, where he earned a degree in music performance. During his time at the college, Wiltrout was exposed to a wide range of musical styles, including jazz, classical, and world music. After graduating from college, Wiltrout moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. He quickly established himself as a versatile and talented percussionist, performing with a variety of ensembles and artists. He also began composing his own music, drawing on his diverse musical influences to create a unique sound that blended elements of jazz, classical, and world music. In 2002, Wiltrout returned to Charleston and began performing with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra. He also continued to compose and perform his own music, collaborating with a variety of musicians and ensembles. In 2006, he released his debut album, "Rhythm Futur," which showcased his unique blend of musical styles and earned critical acclaim. Over the years, Wiltrout has performed with a wide range of artists and ensembles, including the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, the Charleston Jazz Orchestra, the Charleston Latin Jazz Collective, and the Charleston Chamber Orchestra. He has also collaborated with a number of notable musicians, including jazz pianist Robert Glasper and saxophonist Greg Osby. In addition to his work as a performer, Wiltrout is also an accomplished composer and educator. He has written music for a variety of ensembles, including the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and the Charleston Jazz Orchestra, and has taught percussion at the College of Charleston and the Charleston County School of the Arts. Throughout his career, Wiltrout has received numerous awards and accolades for his work in music. In 2010, he was named the Jazz Artist of the Year by the Charleston City Paper, and in 2012, he was awarded a grant from the South Carolina Arts Commission to support his work as a composer. He has also been recognized for his contributions to the Charleston music scene, receiving the Charleston Musician of the Year award in 2014. Today, Ron Wiltrout continues to be a prominent figure in the world of classical music, performing, composing, and teaching with passion and dedication. His unique blend of musical styles and his commitment to excellence have earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the most talented and innovative percussionists of his generation.

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