David Cutler, an award-winning, multi-genre composer, pianist, and Yamaha Master Educator, balances a varied career as a speaker, author, consultant, musician and educator. A self-proclaimed “weekend traveler,” his artistic statements seamlessly weave classical, jazz, popular, folk and world music. Stretching what it means to be a performer, events regularly involve extreme eclecticism, choreography, humor, interdisciplinary collaboration and more.
One of the world’s leading voices on arts entrepreneurship training, Cutler’s acclaimed books The Savvy Musician and The Savvy Music Teacher—which provide tools for amplifying income, impact and innovation—have shaped a generation of artists. His upcoming title The Savvy Musician 2.0 (to be released June 2025) will be the most comprehensive resource yet on music careers and entrepreneurship.
Cutler is also revered as a facilitator. Known for leading immersive “innovation GAMEs,” his powerful, team-based experiences empower arts, education, and business communities to solve creative challenges while becoming better collaborators. His recent full-color, illustrated book The GAME of Innovation guides readers to conquer complex challenges, align teams behind shared visions, and invent the extraordinary.
Cutler serves as distinguished professor of music entrepreneurship and innovation at University of South Carolina. He is a member of the Liberty Fellowship and Aspen Global Leadership Network, associations aimed at building a more just society.