The Gary Motley Trio will perform at the Knoxville Museum of Art’s “Alive
After Five” jazz concert event tonight from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the
Great Hall.
The Atlanta-based jazz trio is headed by Gary Motley, a renowned pianist,
composer and performer. The band also displays the talent of bassist Neal
Starkey and drummer John Lewis.
Motley began studying the piano at the age of 10, and since then has
performed with legendary artists such as Charlie Rouse, Jerry Coker and Mel
Torme.
In 1988, Motley received a Certificate of Acheivement in Songwriting from
Billboard magazine. Downbeat magazine put Motley in the
spotlight that same year.
Since graduating from the University of Montevallo in Alabama with a degree
in music, Motley has studied with famous pianist Ellis Marsalis and
performed at the International Festival of Jazz in Mexico City. He also
made an appearance at the Jackie Robinson Foundation Afternoon of Jazz in
Connecticut.
He currently hosts workshops and conducts classes at Gary Motley Music,
Inc. in Stone Mountain, Ga.
Motley attributes his musical influence to Bill Evans and Wayne Shorter.
“My ultimate goal is to have the piano represent my voice,” he once told
free-lance writer Kenneth Rollins.
Various jazz performances in London, Paris and Barcelona helped Motley gain
world fame. He also coached actor Kevin Kline for his role as a studio
musician in the 1993 motion picture Consenting Adults, which
contains some of Motley’s work on the soundtrack.
Peaceful Moments is the Gary Motley Music, Inc. CD debut, and
showcases the talent of Starkey, Lewis and Motley. The CD consists of three
original Motley compositions.
A grant from the Southern Art Federation – Meet the Composer/South made the
Gary Motley Trio’s visit to Knoxville possible.
Jazz aficionados will want to check out the Gary Motley Trio at KMA’s
“Alive After Five.” Admission for students is $2.50 and $5 for all others.
KMA members pay no cover charge. A barbecue buffet is available for an
additional fee of $5.95 plus tax.
