Kenny Peagler

Biography
Press

Hailing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Kenny Peagler is a multi-genre pianist, composer, musical director, and singer-songwriter known for his dynamic performances and innovative musicality. His journey began at the Pittsburgh High School for Creative and Performing Arts, where he honed his craft and developed a passion for the piano. Following high school, he received a full scholarship to the prestigious New England Conservatory in Boston, immersing himself in diverse musical traditions.

Kenny has performed worldwide at notable venues, including the North Sea Jazz Club, Umbria Jazz Festival, Pittsburgh Jazz Festival, Carnegie Music Hall, and the Kennedy Center. He had the honor of serving as the pianist for the NAACP Centennial celebration, performing for President Barack Obama, and showcased his versatility at the Source Magazine 360 event, featuring artists like Lil' Kim and Curren$y. His international tours have taken him across Europe and Asia, captivating audiences with his expressive piano playing and engaging style.

With two highly anticipated albums on the horizon, Kenny is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene. The first is a solo piano album dedicated to the compositions of the legendary Billy Strayhorn, recorded on an antique Steinway once owned by Senator John Heinz of Pennsylvania. Reflecting on this project, he shares, “Recording on an instrument with such rich history while interpreting Strayhorn’s timeless music was a deeply personal and transformative experience.”

His second album, Human, produced by Grammy Award-winning drummer Poogie Bell, showcases his versatility as an artist and features an all-star lineup, including Marcus Miller, Will Lee, Lakecia Benjamin, Dean Brown, Victor Wooten, and Jimmy Haslip. Kenny describes Human as “a reflection of our shared experiences as human beings—our joys, struggles, and everything in between. It’s the most personal work I’ve ever done, and I’m excited to share it with the world.”

Kenny has also released four singles that have garnered attention: “Time Machine” (2023), “Dance Tonight” (2024), “Come Close to Me” (2024), and “It Wasn't Meant to Be” (2024), showcasing his range as both an instrumentalist and vocalist.

His discography includes collaborations with artists across genres, serving as a pianist, arranger, and musical director on projects like Poogie Bell’s Exhibition Continues, Aaron Myers’ Leo Rising, and Richard White’s I Am of Value. His solo work, 100 Years of Strayhorn, pays homage to the rich legacy of one of jazz's most revered composers.

In addition to his performing career, Kenny is passionate about music education, inspiring the next generation of musicians through workshops and mentorship.