Kenny Banks, Sr., Jazz Pianist
...composer, arranger and performer who slips effortlessly among musical styles while retaining his own distinct sound. This Columbus Ohio native has been studying and playing since the age of seven. He first developed his gift through the church, which led him to study music at Central State University. Following graduation, Kenny taught vocal music in the Columbus Public Schools before pursuing his dreams by touring as a clinician, keyboardist, musical director and producer across the United States and other parts of the world. Kenny has appeared on BET and the Image Awards. He has performed at the inauguration and the United Nations Ceremony for President Barack Obama and appeared in such notable places as Carnegie Hall in New York City and the Philharmonie in Berlin. Kenny has also appeared in movie scenes from Tyler Perry's "The Family That Preys" and has a composition entitled "Hello Love" on the GMC movie "Raising Izzie". Among his many high profile performing credits are appearances with Earl Klugh, Kenny Garrett, Wess Anderson, Russell Gunn, Lizz Wright, Rene Marie, Kevin Mahogany, Kurt Whalum, Albertina Walker, Dorothy Norwood, Jennifer Holiday, Aretha Franklin and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Kenny received his Master's degree in Jazz Studies at Georgia State University. He currently resides in Atlanta with his wife (Angelia) and three children (Kenny Jr., Sydney and Sasha). Kenny serves as accompanist, music director and chorale director for Cascade United Methodist Church. He occasionally makes appearances at well known local jazz venues with Atlanta's well known recording artist (trumpet) Joe Gransden. Kenny continues to record and travel abroad performing with International recording artist Lizz Wright. As well as being on many recordings he has released several of his own entitled "Hymns of Comfort" and "Truly Free."
