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Kathy Kelly

Kathy Kelly has been a regular on the Chicago Jazz scene for many years, usually performing in groups dedicated to original jazz. Her vibes playing and compositions have graced many different groups, including her current quartet.

Kelly uses her eclectic style, World music sensibility and sense of humor to bring to life the varied compositions on her new CD “Owls Calling" (Kanani Music). The result of a 2015 Individual Arts Program Creative Projects Grant from the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs, "Owls Calling" features Kelly’s compositions and vibes, with John Kregor on guitar, Dan DeLorenzo on bass and Andre Beasley on drums.

Founder and Artistic Director of the Chicago Jazz Composers Collective, Kelly can often be heard premiering new works for the monthly CJCC Sunday afternoon concerts at the Green Mill.

In addition to "Owls Calling" Kelly can be heard on her CD "A Different Vibe" (Kanani Music), and with Asian Fusion group Mothra on "Tradewind" (Chicago Sessions).

Awards

Individual Arts Program Creative Projects Grant from the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs; 3Arts fellowship, Ragdale residency, Lake Forest IL; City Arts Assistance Program Grants, City of Chicago National Endowment for the Arts, Jazz Study Grant

Gear

Musser Pro Vibes, Mike Balter Mallets


Tags

320
Take Five With...

Take Five With Kathy Kelly

Read "Take Five With Kathy Kelly" reviewed by AAJ Staff


Meet Kathy Kelly: Kathy Kelly has been playing the vibes professionally since 1979 when she made her debut performing in Chicago-area jazz clubs.A Different Vibe is Kelly's debut CD, featuring twelve original jazz compositions. Featured along with Kelly on the CD are guitarist John McLean, bassist Dan DeLorenzo, and drummer Jim Widlowski.A review in Cadence Magazine says of Kelly, “She stretches out with a fluid improvisational style that combines coolness with intricate details." Jazzreview.com praises the ...

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Here’s what critics are saying about Kathy Kelly’s CD, A Different vibe.....

“...she stretches out with a fluid improvisational style that combines coolness with intricate details, while the quartet’s timbres are as familiar as old friends.”.... “Highly recommended and eclectic”. Cadence Magazine

“This is a spunky, lively, feel-good collection of original songs by Kathy Kelly, and it is something you can play any time and receive enjoyment from listening to it”....”A Different Vibe is a winner. Excellent.” jazzreview.com

“Each cut has a musical message to deliver different from the track that preceded it and all that follow. The one absolute is the resonance created by Kelly’s four-mallet style.” All Music Guide, www.allmusic.com

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Primary Instrument

Vibraphone

Location

Chicago

Willing to teach

Beginner to advanced

Photos

Music

Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson

owls calling

Kanani Music
2015

buy

A Different Vibe

Unknown label
2000

buy

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