KENDALL KEYZ CARTER

Kendall Carter is an emerging organist, pianist, composer, and educator hailing from Louisville, KY. He began playing the piano at age 4 and was drawn to the organ by age 13. Matriculating at the University of Louisville, he graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Piano Performance and a Master of Music in Jazz Composition and Arranging. Aside from music, he also holds a Master of Theology from Campbellsville University.

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​Kendall is a Hammond Artist and he can be found actively performing throughout the midwest. Kendall has been provided the opportunity to share the stage with many established musicians including NEA Jazz Master Jamey Aebersold, NEA Jazz Master Donald Harrison, Dave Stryker, Rob Dixon, Kenny Phelps, Carmen Bradford, Tim Warfield, Mike Clark, and a host of others.

 

His playing is rooted in the gospel music tradition, but also draws influence from notable organists Jimmy McGriff, Charles Earland, and Shirley Scott. Combining these influences has allowed Kendall to develop his own philosophy on playing the blues and keeping the groove.

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​When not on the road, he can be found steadily playing solo piano 5 nights a week at the Pine Room Restaurant. He teaches privately and has been on faculty at the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Workshops. Kendall is also active at his local church were he serves as the Minister of Music, and helped released their first single entitled, "Don't Worry, Just Worship" (out on all platforms). More music is forthcoming from his church music department.

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He recently released his debut record, "Introducing Kendall Carter," which features veteran New York City guitarist Dave Stryker and Indianapolis based drummer Kenny Phelps. This record draws on the organ trio tradition with its blue-tinged renditions of jazz standards and R&B classics.