Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

May 1, 1968 in New York City, NY

 

Kevin Hays is a renowned American jazz pianist and composer who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on May 1, 1968, in New York City, Hays grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz drummer, and his mother was a classical pianist. Hays started playing the piano at the age of six and showed a natural talent for music. Hays attended the Manhattan School of Music, where he studied classical piano. However, he was drawn to jazz and began playing in local clubs while still in school. After graduating, Hays moved to Boston to attend the New England Conservatory of Music, where he studied with jazz legends such as Gary Burton and Bob Brookmeyer. Hays' early career was marked by collaborations with some of the most prominent jazz musicians of the time, including Sonny Rollins, Roy Haynes, and Joshua Redman. He also released several albums as a bandleader, including "Sweet Ear" and "Andalucia," which received critical acclaim. In the late 1990s, Hays began to explore classical music and started composing his own works. His first classical album, "Variations," was released in 2001 and featured his original compositions for solo piano. The album received widespread praise for its innovative blend of jazz and classical styles. Hays' subsequent classical works have continued to push the boundaries of genre and style. His 2003 album, "American Suite," featured a mix of jazz and classical influences and was inspired by the landscapes and people of the United States. The album was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Classical Crossover Album. In 2006, Hays released "The Dreamer," a classical album that was inspired by the poetry of Langston Hughes. The album featured Hays' original compositions and arrangements of Hughes' poems, and was praised for its emotional depth and musical complexity. Hays' most recent classical album, "North," was released in 2018 and features his original compositions for piano and string quartet. The album was inspired by the natural beauty of the northern United States and Canada and showcases Hays' ability to blend classical and jazz styles seamlessly. In addition to his work as a composer, Hays is also a highly sought-after performer and has played at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. He has also collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including jazz saxophonist Chris Potter and classical violinist Joshua Bell. Hays' contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 2010, he was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship for his work as a composer, and in 2016, he was named a Steinway Artist, joining a select group of pianists who are recognized for their exceptional talent and artistry. Overall, Kevin Hays is a gifted musician and composer who has made a significant impact on the world of classical music. His innovative blend of jazz and classical styles has earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following, and his works continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

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