Meet Otto Gross

We had the good fortune of connecting with Otto Gross and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Otto, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued an artistic career because it felt the most exciting to me. From a young age, I was captivated by the energy, freedom, and joy that creativity brings—not just for the artist, but for everyone it touches. I’ve always believed that art and creativity are universal languages. They cross boundaries, cultures, and beliefs, and they allow us to connect in ways words sometimes can’t.

As a creative, I wanted to share that with the world. Whether it’s through worship music, educational resources, or viral ditties made from household items, I’m always chasing the spark that creativity ignites in others. Practically speaking, I’ve also been deeply attracted to the idea of earning wealth through the gifts I’ve been given. There’s something powerful about being able to build a life—provide for my family, support my community, and empower others—using what’s naturally in me.

It’s not just about expression—it’s about purpose, sustainability, and using creativity as a tool for transformation and legacy.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is rooted in rhythm, worship, and imagination. I’m a composer, performer, and creative who believes music isn’t just something we hear—it’s something we feel, something that brings people together across backgrounds, generations, and beliefs. Whether I’m leading worship, producing music for kids, or creating spontaneous ditties out of household objects, I try to keep creativity honest, joyful, and accessible.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to wear a lot of hats—from serving as Creative Director at QuaverEd to leading worship at Christ Church Nashville, to creating educational content and performing alongside artists I deeply respect. It’s been a winding road with plenty of late nights, personal sacrifice, and moments of doubt. There have been challenges—from back surgery in high school to navigating cultural dynamics as a leader—but through it all, I’ve leaned on my faith, my family, and the conviction that creativity is something I was called to steward.

If there’s one thing I hope people take from my story, it’s that purpose and passion can coexist. You can serve your community, support your family, and still create from a place of authenticity. My work is about building bridges—between education and art, between generations, and ultimately between people and the divine. I’m grateful to do what I do, and even more grateful for the chance to keep growing in it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Nashville for a week, I’d make sure they got the full flavor of this city—musically, culturally, and culinarily. We’d kick things off with a little friendly competition—bowling, pickleball, and definitely an escape room (because I’m always down for a good puzzle). I’d take them to Opryland, Opry Mills Mall, and one of my personal favorites—the AMC Dine-In Theatre in Cool Springs. Nothing like dinner and a movie where you never have to leave your seat.

We’d explore some of Nashville’s best restaurants, with a stop at Music City Sandwich, my friend Jason Eskridge’s amazing spot—it’s always a win. I’d also take them to my buddy Garrett’s studio—it’s one of those creative spaces that just feels good the moment you walk in.

No visit would be complete without experiencing the local music scene. I’d pack the week with shows featuring some of the city’s most incredible artists—many of whom I’m grateful to call friends. There are far too many to name, and I’d never want to leave anyone out, but trust me, Nashville is bursting with talent—male and female artists, musicians, bandleaders, and vocalists lighting up venues across the city every night. We’d check out performances at Rudy’s Jazz Room, the Nashville Jazz Workshop, TPAC, and the Schermerhorn, especially when the symphony plays a live film score—those are unforgettable. We’d also stop by The Fisher Center at Belmont, a stunning new venue where you can catch everything from concerts to Broadway-style productions.

I’d make sure to take them to church—Christ Church, where I serve, along with a few others that have deeply impacted me over the years like Friendship Missionary Baptist, Mt. Zion, and Crosspoint—and honestly, if time allowed, there are several more I’d love to include.These are communities where you not only hear good music, but feel something deeper.

And if we could catch a Nate Bargatze show? That would be the cherry on top.

At its core, Nashville is about creativity, community, and soul—and I’d want my friend to experience all of that in full measure.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and always—all glory to God. Every note I’ve played, every idea I’ve created, and every door that’s opened has been because of His grace, favor, and calling on my life. He’s the source of my creativity, my strength, and my vision.

I also want to honor my incredible wife, Jayna, whose love and partnership ground me. My four beautiful children are daily reminders of why I build, create, and press forward. I’m deeply grateful to my parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family—you’ve shaped my identity and supported me every step of the way.

To Christ Church Nashville, thank you for trusting me to lead and reimagine worship in such a spiritually rich and diverse space. To my QuaverEd family, thank you for a decade of growth, collaboration, and impact.

And finally, a huge shoutout to the great musicians, performers, artists, storytellers, dynasty-starters, icons, innovators, and creatives throughout history—I create in the echo of your legacy. This journey is built on faith, family, community, and the beautiful responsibility to keep the flame of creativity burning.

Website: https://linktr.ee/ogrossii

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ottogrossproductions/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ottogross/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ottogrossmusic

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ottogrossmusic

Image Credits
Trés Vincent Cox
Rachel Breakey
Rebekah Walker
Chris Haga
Padrion Scott Sr.