We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Richard Kahn. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Richard below.
Hi Richard, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
A significant part of being prepared is knowing the repertoire (the actual musical selections) that are popular in the given region in which you will be performing. In my case, it was knowing the special pieces favored by many rooms and many room managers. Let us not forget that the room manager is listening to you perform your selections, as well. Know your material like you know your name. Whether it is “Send in the Clowns” or “Take the A Train,” perform it with authenticity and sincerity, even if you hate the piece. And then, learn how to change keys (for the next panel discussion…
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I fell in love with the piano at about age 22, rather late in life. I had played (with some talent) as an 11 year old, but quit when my beloved teacher moved away. I turned my attention to athletics, in particular gymnastics, an arena in which I would later become a State Champion (Kansas State Title: Horizontal Bar, 1977) and attended the University of Kansas as a full scholarship athlete. I would eventually, give up gymnastics for the piano, when I discovered classical music and jazz at a local bar appropriately named Ernie’s Catfish Hollow and Jazz Supper Club. Ernie let me sit in, and the rest is history.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
The road to success and happiness as an artist is littered with the broken dreams and tears of those countless souls who have failed to keep one core concept in mind: Have multiple streams of income!! Investments, real estate, IRAS, side hustles, know your business and have great business chops. Invest in your retirement earlier rather than later.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
I am transcribing (writing down) the arrangements of my versions of Beverly Hills pop and jazz, as I have performed them on recordings and concerts. That way, pianists who can read will have a written reference of what it sounds like to be a Beverly Hills pianist. Otherwise, aspiring pianists will need to have their own transcription skills and that it usually not the case.
Contact Info:
- Website: richardkahnmusic.com
- Other: Spotify: Richard Kahn “Jazz 88ist” and Richard Kahn “At the Piano…”