Hi, I'm Teri.

I’m a third-generation Seattle artist whose musical journey began in childhood, listening to the timeless pop, swing, soul, and jazz records my parents played endlessly at home. I started performing professionally at fifteen, and after a personal tragedy shaped the direction of my early life, music became my anchor. Following two years of touring after high school, I returned to Seattle and earned a jazz vocal scholarship to Cornish College of the Arts. There, under the mentorship of Joni Metcalf, Gary Peacock, Maurice Stern, Julian Priester, Lowell Roddenberry, and Jerry Gray, I deepened my love for jazz and soul—genres that continue to inform my sound.

Over the years, I’ve collaborated with extraordinary musicians, contributed to numerous studio projects, and performed across the country, including a career highlight at Buddy Guy’s iconic Chicago club. I’ve also led several successful bands—The Teri Derr Band, Blues Therapy, Hot Pursuit, Dressed Red, and Gold Rush—each reflecting a different facet of my musical influences. Beyond performing, I like to guide and nurture new talent through my private teaching studio, where I help singers discover their unique voice and creative confidence.

Blues. Jazz. Soul. Stories. Seattle raised. Singing, teaching, and making music that feels like truth.