We are excited to feature the incredible pianist, Jordan Piper for our next Chats with the Cats.
Growing up in a few different places, Jordan didn't get into Jazz until high school in Bellingham, WA.
"My first influences were a group of local musicians who had a regular Tuesday night gig at a place called Stuart’s coffee shop. They included drummer Julian MacDonough and trumpeter Kevin Woods who are still active in the Pacific Northwest jazz scene. Stuart’s was a fun place to hang out and eventually some musicians I met there and in high school jazz band started jamming together regularly. We became a band called the “Jazz Omelette” and inherited the Tuesday night gig. Around the same time, I auditioned for bassist Chuck Israels’ college big band and he became a big early mentor of mine. His influence eventually lead me to attend William Paterson."
During his time here, a friend asked him to fill in for him with the Straight and Narrow gospel choir in NJ. He's been there ever since.
"Working with the gospel choir at Straight and Narrow is great because I can see the power of music transforming lives firsthand. These are people who are in treatment for serious addictions and mental health issues, so music becomes therapeutic for many of them. Singing in a choir is something that many of them have never done, so they are stepping outside their comfort zones and learning a lot in the process. It’s a great reminder of why I do what I do; to connect with people through a universal language and try to uplift them."
A prominent performer around the city, Jordan reveals what he's been listening to. "I always listen to the great singers especially to learn standards. I recently rediscovered the alto player Frank Strozier whom I’ve been enjoying on the Roy Haynes album from the early sixties called “People”. Another album I’ve been digging is “For Real!” by Hampton Hawes/Harold Land. I also enjoy listening to “Traditions in Swing”, Phil Schaap’s radio program on WKCR which is a great education on early styles of jazz."
So where can you see Jordan this month? "I'm Playing with Joey Cavaceno’s quartet at Smalls April 14, with my trio and Eyal Vilner’s big band at the Django April 13. My regular KEYEDUP! performances of course at The Brightside Tavern on Monday’s and Turnmillnyc on Wednesday’s. "
“KEYEDUP! has been so important in helping to sustain and grow NYC’s jazz scene. By showing venues they can grow their business by committing to regular live music, KU! has helped musicians and listeners alike.