Kyle Aho: A Jazz Awakening, Relentless Pursuit

Photo of Kyle Aho by Erin Gamble

“I came to music late, in my late teens. My grandmother gifted me a Casio keyboard with miniature keys. I played on that until all the black keys snapped off... At that point, I knew what I wanted to do with my life.” Kyle Aho's words evoke images of an eager young musician, tirelessly working on a diminutive keyboard, fascinated by the mysterious sounds he was hearing. 

Kyle, a jazz pianist, composer, and educator based in Springfield, Missouri, reminisces about his humble beginnings in Pocatello, Idaho—a mountain railroad town. Here, he was introduced to the music world, not through classical lessons as many do, but rather via CDs from the public library. One such album, Ahmad Jamal’s trio recording, “The Awakening”, was a pivotal moment in Kyle’s musical journey.

But the journey from the mountain railroad town of his youth to the stages of some of the world's premier jazz venues wasn’t straightforward. It was a path paved with determination, resilience, and an unwavering passion for music. He recalls, “When I attended undergraduate school, I was told I couldn’t be a music major... Two years later, I successfully auditioned to become a piano performance major.”

Kyle has played alongside such luminaries as George Garzone, Jerry Bergonzi, Bob Brookmeyer, and Geri Brown. He has played venues from NYC’s renowned Blue Note and Jazz Standard to The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., The Green Mill in Chicago, The Blue Room in Kansas City, and even international performances in Japan and Taiwan.

After spending 13 pivotal years in Seattle and Boston, juggling roles as a working musician and student, Kyle moved to the Midwest, where he currently teaches students at Missouri State University in both the jazz studies and dance programs. His unique position, straddling both domains, provides him an unparalleled perspective. “In the dance area, I accompany classes. This has turned into a stimulating form of improvisation for me... I’ve learned a tremendous amount about the connection between music and dance.”

Behind the scenes, Kyle remains rooted in family and genuine connection. His brothers, parents, wife, and two sons are at the foundation of every note he plays. “They are at the heart of everything I do,” he shares.

His style, an enigmatic blend that can be described as "somewhat experimental," challenges listeners, drawing them into a world of new harmonies and rhythms. His inspirations range from the playful genius of Wayne Shorter and Thelonious Monk to the love and support of his family.

His advice to budding jazz enthusiasts? “Listen as much as you can, practice diligently, collaborate with other players, and enjoy the journey with no expectations of financial reward.” Wise words from a man whose life, both on and off the stage, embodies the very spirit of jazz.

Learn more about Kyle Aho on his website

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