Geoffrey Keezer is a celebrated pianist and composer in contemporary jazz, known for his virtuosic playing that intertwines diverse musical influences from around the globe. With a career marked by collaborations with jazz legends and multiple Grammy nominations, Keezer continues to inspire as a performer, educator, and innovative artist.
Geoffrey Keezer is a renowned pianist and composer whose talents have placed him among the leading figures in contemporary jazz. Born on November 20, 1970, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Keezer's early immersion in music was influenced by his family, as both parents were music teachers. He began studying piano at the tender age of 3. Keezer's career took off when, at just 18, he joined Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers after only a year at Berklee College of Music, becoming the band's final pianist before Blakey's passing. This marked the beginning of his prolific career as a touring and recording artist.
Geoffrey Keezer is celebrated for his virtuosic piano playing that seamlessly melds a spectrum of influences beyond conventional jazz. His music is a rich tapestry, weaving together elements from Hawaiian, Okinawan, and Afro-Peruvian folk music, alongside classical, pop, and other genres. He names Wayne Shorter and Chick Corea as significant influences, reflecting his admiration for their musical ingenuity. Critically acclaimed for his technical prowess and improvisational flair, Keezer is equally lauded as a composer and arranger.
Throughout his distinguished career, Keezer has collaborated with numerous jazz icons, such as:
As a bandleader, Geoffrey Keezer has an impressive catalog of over 20 albums, including:
Keezer is no stranger to accolades:
Beyond performance, Keezer:
Keezer is married to vocalist Gillian Margot, with whom he has a child born around 2018. The family is based in New York City, where Keezer continues to be an influential figure in the jazz community, balancing his time between performing, composing, and teaching.
