Originally from Philadelphia, a hot bed for jazz organ, Hammond B-3 organist Kyle Koehler grew up hearing and then playing with some of the jazz masters (Shirley Scott, Charles Earland, Grover Washington,etc.). After receiving a degree in music performance and composition, Kyle moved to New York City in the late 90s, where he has been performing since . Besides leading his own trio, he has performed with some of the top names in jazz; such as Lou Donaldson, Benny Golson , David ‘Fathead’ Newman, and Jimmy Heath. He has been on numerous recordings and completed two tours of Japan, promoting his critically acclaimed CD “EXIT 13” with drummer Sylvia Cuenca and guitarist Dave Stryker. Music from “EXIT 13” was featured on HBO’s “Sex In The City” . Kyle was showcased on the NPR radio program Jazzset performing live from Birdland with the Don Braden Quartet. Kyle was chosen as a Jazz Ambassador to tour Africa on behalf of The Kennedy Center and US State Department. He has also led master classes on playing the Hammond B-3 at numerous colleges and jazz programs, such as the Berklee College of Music and theTri-C Jazzfest (Clevelend). Mr. Koehler has performed at many major festivals including the Monterey Jazz Festival, Detroit Jazz Festival, and the Newport Jazz Fest in Madarao (Japan). Also, Kyle has recorded 2 albums with Grammy nominated R'n'B sensation James Hunter. He has been with the James Hunter Six since 2007, performing at such venues as Hollywood Bowl and twice being featured on The Tonight Show. Kyle Koehler was also recently voted as a "Rising Star" in the Downbeat Critics Poll.
Kyle is very passionate and committed about keeping the jazz organ tradition alive. While playing he pays homage to the great organists; such as Larry Young, Jimmy Smith, and Don Patterson, and yet maintains a strong musical voice all his own.
“Koehler is a revelation on organ; a natural heir to the progressive tradition of Jimmy Smith and Larry young.” -All About Jazz magazine
Please join us and welcome Mr Koehler to the UC stage at his debut as a leader!
Featuring: KYLE KOEHLER: Hammon B-3 organ / CHARLIE SIGLER: guitar / CARMEN INTORRE JR: drums
Doors 6:30pm / Sets at 7:30pm & 9pm / Your 7:30pm ticket ($15-$25) guarantees your seat for both sets, seating for the 9pm set is based upon availability. There is a $25 food/beverage minimum per person/per set.