The Christopher Lucas Wilson Trio is a professional jazz group based in Chicago, performing elegant and energetic live music for private events, corporate functions, fundraisers, festivals, and more. With over 15 years of experience, the classic jazz trio consists of piano, bass, and drums and delivers a polished, dynamic sound rooted in classic jazz, bossa nova, and soulful ballads. Led by pianist Christopher Lucas Wilson, who has performed in Detroit, Los Angeles, and Chicago, the group is known for being highly professional, easy to work with, and adaptable to any event. Whether you want sophisticated background music or a lively jazz set, this trio brings the perfect vibe.
4 reviews
Aleksandra
April 19, 2026We hired this jazz trio for a private birthday celebration, and they exceeded every expectation. From the very beginning, Chris (the bandleader and pianist) was incredibly communicative, responsive, and easy to work with. On the day of the event, the band arrived early, set up seamlessly, and were ready to play right on time—completely professional from start to finish.
The music itself was outstanding. The trio—piano (Chris), double bass (Marlene), and drums (Linard)—created the perfect atmosphere: sophisticated, lively, and engaging without ever overpowering the event. Their talent is undeniable, and many of our guests commented on how exceptional they were. Marlene and Linard were both fantastic, and together with Chris's phenomenal piano skills, they delivered a truly memorable performance.
Beyond their musical ability, they were a pleasure to have in our home—respectful, warm, and fun to be around. They were also incredibly flexible, accommodating a last-minute extension and working with us to make the evening flow perfectly.
This performance meant a lot to us, especially as we were celebrating my dad’s birthday, and they helped make the night feel truly special. I will absolutely book them again for any future event and highly recommend them to anyone looking for top-tier jazz talent paired with professionalism and ease.
An unforgettable experience—thank you again!
Hired as: Jazz Band
Joan A.
April 6, 2025The group Mr. Wilson brought to perform at our fundraiser gala was truly impressive. From start to finish, their music set the perfect tone for the evening. Each member was clearly incredibly talented, and their ability to create such a smooth, cohesive sound was a highlight of the event.
What stood out the most was how well they adjusted to the atmosphere of the gala. They knew when to keep things upbeat and lively, and when to slow it down for a more relaxed vibe. It felt like they really understood the mood and enhanced it with their music.
Their performance added so much to the event, and I know I’m not the only one who enjoyed it. I’d love to have them back for future events – they were a perfect fit for our fundraiser!
I can’t thank them enough for making our night unforgettable. They didn’t just play music; they made it come alive. I would love to have them back anytime and highly recommend!
Hired as: Jazz Band
Jason S.
January 20, 2025I hired this group for a holiday function and was very satisfied with the whole experience. Everyone loved the energy in their music! Couldn’t recommend more!
Hired as: Jazz Band
Ruth
December 13, 2024I hired Chris and his group for our corporate music series and was BLOWN WAY by their service! They were professional--on-time, cordial, open-to-suggestions, and reasonably priced. Of course the music was lovely and I'd say they even went the extra mile by interacting with the coworkers and even playing some requests. Highly recommend!!
Hired as: Jazz Band
Price range: $300 and up
Languages: English, Spanish
We are 1) eager to partner with you to provide EXACTLY what you are looking for to make your event perfect OR 2) eager to provide you with the leadership and suggestions necessary to envision the perfect event.
Contact us!
Christopher Lucas Wilson is a hard swingin' pianist originally from metropolitan Detroit, transplanted for a decade to Los Angeles, and now living in Chicago. As a child, Christopher was first introduced to music on a Grinnell Brothers piano in his parents’ living room by a now unknown piano teacher. Although this teacher’s name remains a mystery, Christopher remains indebted for his role in instilling a lifelong passion for music.
The enlightening and freeing sound of swing is what first attracted Christopher to jazz. His interest in this feeling is what led him to begin exploring Detroit’s rich musical history which was and is replete with musical legends. He first studied with the late greats Bess Bonnier and Marcus Belgrave. Later, he would join the Detroit Symphony Orchestra's Civic Jazz Program where he first met esteemed bassist and educator Rodney Whitaker. By the time Christopher graduated from high school, he was entrenched in swing and bebop and would go on to further his studies within the jazz program at Michigan State University. While at Michigan State, he had the pleasure of studying and performing with Rodney Whitaker, Wess “Warmdaddy” Anderson, Derrick Gardner, Vincent Chandler, Randy Gilespie, Diego Rivera, and Rick Roe. After graduating Christopher immediately began performing with his trio in Detroit, including a weekly jam session at the heralded Baker’s Keyboard Lounge. A short year later, Christopher relocated to sunny swingin’ Los Angeles where he fell in love with Southern California and spent nearly a decade there as a result. During that time he played regularly with his trio and released two albums, "Feelin' Better" and “Leaving Los Angeles." Christopher moved to Chicago in 2019 and is honored and excited to be part of another incredible city rich with musical history. His most recent release, "Solemn Moments" was released in January 2023 and features accomplished musicians and friends Jesse Kramer and Noah Jackson.
Christopher’s music is highly influenced by hard swing, bebop, and the rich history of jazz piano trios. His focus is the uplifting nature of swing and the beauty behind the jazz piano trio. His arrangements are thoughtful and his music contagious.
"There are players who skate more, players with more driving rhythms and more original versions. For listeners thirsty for 'notes...like hoisted water/raveling off a bucket,' for the generous lyricism that left the planet with Hank Jones and Tommy Flanagan, Christopher is a reminder that our musical well is deep and fresh, that a new generation of players can still lead us to it."
- Michael Lauchlan, author of Trumbull Ave
We can provide ALL equipment needed.
Saturday
Birthday Party
6:30pm - 9:00pm
•
Chicago, IL
Songs from the Great American Songbook (think Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, etc)
"Jazz Standards" (think Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, etc)
Original compositions (if desired)
Jazz Band
