John Pedersen

John Pedersen is a contemporary keyboardist from Southern California. He expresses his individuality as a composer in a variety of genres such as smooth jazz, chill out lounge, funk, Latin influenced rock, solo piano and electronica. Infectious melodies padded by a lush soundscape anchored by a hip rhythm section are some ways to describe John's style. Hypnotic grooves and inspired musicianship are another. Drawing from the rich traditions of African-American, Latin and Native American music, John weaves together an enjoyable multi-cultural experience. He also writes instrumental music designed to connect emotionally with the listener. It has what is known as the "wow" effect. It touches you deeply and lifts you. Along with John's multi-keyboard approach, superb guest musicians on sax, flute, guitar, bass and drums are featured. The result is a full band sound that just flat out sizzles and rocks.

John's music can be summed up as follows: A masterful collection of eclectic influences woven together into a compelling tapestry of lush soundscapes. Jazz, ambient and progressive elements are frequently anchored by a rock solid rhythm section. Diverse ethnic percussion on many tracks, provides for a memorable multicultural experience.

John Pedersen was born in the suburbs of Chicago, IL in 1960 and moved to California just prior to his 8th birthday. Organ lessons started at age 11, and by age 15, John was already in his first band playing every weekend. At this time he also began playing organ at his church, a position that continues today for a total of 33 years. Although groomed into a proficient musician from further instruction in college, John went to work as a lab technician and it wasn't until a layoff 12 years later in the 1993, that he returned to his calling.

For several years, John worked on backing tracks for musicals, was an accompanist for school choirs, continued as a church organist, played in a variety of rock and country bands and started teaching piano. In 1997 John's recording career began with the release of "White Owl", a beautiful debut enhanced by Mark Sarno's co-production and drumming skills. The desert themed concept album, "Legend and Landscape" followed in 2000, this time with Andy Machin co-producing and playing guitar. John's association with Andy continued on the 2002 album, "When Sun Broke Through", which was inspired by an almost fatal accident suffered by John's son. The subsequent recovery of his son is celebrated in this release. John's fourth album, "Paradise", depicts in song a loving and exciting relationship between John and his wife, Sherri. This festive and heartfelt collection was further enhanced by photographs, taken on the Hawaiian honeymoon, that were added to the album's graphic design. In March 2007, John's newest album, "Groovidi", was released. This recording is a smooth jazz masterpiece with solid piano playing by John, but also features great guest musicians like Adrienne Nims on sensuous sax and haunting flute, Andy Machin on tasty guitar and funky bass, and Jeff Winckler with his sensitive and spirited jazz drumming.

John performs in the San Diego area frequently, at places like Borders and Hot Java Cafe. As a church organist and pianist, John plays at a number of choir concerts throughout the year. During the week, he teaches individual piano lessons to around 40 promising and talented students. John also practices diligently on the piano 2-3 hours a day to keep his chops up, as well as come up with fresh musical ideas.

In his spare time, John enjoys hiking and spending time with his wife and family. He listens to a lot of music as well, everything from smooth and straight ahead jazz to chill-out-lounge electronica and progressive ambient music.

John's music is available at CDBaby, iTunes, e-Music, Rhapsody, Amazon and a number of other fine online stores.

Click here to visit the John Pedersen website.