Ohio native, Keri Chryst (Olentangy High School, class of 1992), has been living and working as a professional vocalist, composer- arranger, and educator in Paris, France since 2003. She specializes in both vocal and instrumental jazz music (Bachelor of Music in jazz studies, 1997, and masters in jazz pedagogy, 1998, Northwestern University) and is also well versed in a variety of styles including Broadway, pop, soul, gospel, and classic choral literature.

For much of the year, Keri travels internationally to perform with big bands and jazz combos or with the jazz vocal trio “Sweet System“. Her schedule also brings her to the U.S. for 3-5 months for annual concerts, clinics, and workshops across the Midwest.

Featured programs include the “Scat Cat Sessions” for a hands-on introduction to jazz and improvisation and of course “The French Connection,” which highlights language and culture through selected Franco-American jazz repertoire. More recently, Keri has also been passionate about working with horn ensembles as per her “Great Little Big Band” program.

So, whether to write some arrangements or work with your big band, choir, thespians, or general music class, Keri is always thrilled to give back to the Ohio arts community which forged her into the accomplished artist she is today.

RECENT PROJECTS: TeachArtsOhio Artist in Residence – “Scat Cat Sessions”, Beverly Elementary (Toledo, OH), 500 students grades K-8, two full weeks of introduction to jazz history and improvisation, including ample hands-on experience with crafting scat solos. Culminating in a public performance by the core group, accompanied by aspiring professional musicians from Bowling Green State University. (Oct 2023 & Jan-Feb 2024)

“The STEMs of Jazz”, Hastings Middle School (Hastings, NE), 250 students grades 6-8, one week of exploration of the “architecture” of American jazz music through classic forms and structures such as the blues and “I Got Rhythm”, plus some hands-on practice identifying AABA and ABAC forms of common secular Holiday Songs! (Nov. 2023)

“Dialogue”, U.S. Embassy (Lusaka, Zambia), High School/College/Professionals, week-long tour of concerts and workshops with aspiring and professional artists exploring elements of jazz and arts entrepreneurship as cultural ambassadors of the U.S. State Department (Sept. 2023).

Availability

Upon Request