STORY

Born in Singapore but now based in Tokyo, Kelvin is a contemporary pianist, composer, and educator.

Playing jazz was a dream since young. But that gratingly dissonant, yet soothingly pleasant sound remained incomprehensible and elusive for years.

Improvising Coldplay, U2, the Beatles, Mandopop, or even hymns by ear was a joy. But jazz? No joy.

A teaching stint at Play By Ear Music School and many pointers from peers, books, and videos later, an adult Kelvin delved into jazz theory and technique. Harnessing this insight, Kelvin was finally able to recreate the sounds of the jazz greats. And play some jazz.

Kelvin's sound draws inspiration from Oscar Peterson and Bill Evans. Weaving a light melodic touch with impressionistic harmonic tones, Kelvin re-imagines pop and jazz favourites with a classic feel and a dash of modern panache.

Convinced by his learning journey that anything can be learnt, Kelvin is inspired to spark the joy of learning and music. His spare time is spent writing music curriculum and transcribing songs for his contemporary piano courses, conducted at his piano studio or online.

Quick Facts:

• Speaks 4 languages: English, Mandarin, German, Japanese
• Piano students have hailed from 13 countries! 🇸🇬🇲🇾🇨🇳🇮🇩🇵🇭🇮🇳🇯🇵🇺🇸🇬🇧🇦🇺🇳🇱🇮🇹🇫🇷
• Was resident pianist at Goodwood Park Hotel, Singapore
• Music curriculum awarded Educational Innovation Award, Temasek Polytechnic
• B.A., National University of Singapore | M.Ed., University of Melbourne