www.justinkauflin.com JUSTIN KAUFLIN-JAZZ PIANIST

"In the small world of jazz...the focused work ethic with intelligent observation becomes of paramount importance in rising above the, at times, silliness and unnecessary competitiveness in which this world I speak of breeds. On this page we have extraordinary talent, ladies and gentlemen...with a gentle spirit that's equal in its sincerity. This young man's craft and not his mouth...speaks for itself."
Jae Sinnett 9/1/07

JAZZ PIANIST BIO

His Music
At the piano, Justin Kauflin has an improvisational zeal matched by a technique that is equal parts lyrical and emotional. His sound can be best described as dynamic and vibrant, with a genuine sense of feeling and appreciation for the soulful essence in jazz music. Although classically trained, Justin prefers the improvisational opportunity jazz provides, which is readily apparent in his mastery of the piano. His musical style reflects his reliance and trust in God and day-to-day experiences, drawing influence from all forms of music. With this inspiration, he hopes to bring a true and pure musical experience to all who hear him play.

Music Background
Justin Kauflin graduated summa cum laude from William Paterson University, NJ in May 2008 (Bachelor of Music/Jazz). His 4 years there and in the vicinity of NYC provided opportunities to study under such musical greats as Mulgrew Miller, Harold Mabern, Clark Terry, Steve Wilson, Terell Stafford, Wynton Marsalis and Ornette Coleman.

His 'musical career' began by plinking tunes on the piano at age two. After years of classical violin and piano lessons, jazz was introduced at the Governor’s School for the Performing Arts and Old Dominion University during his high school years. He is indebted and deeply grateful to Suzanne Schreck, Ginny Koun, Liz Barnes, Jae Sinnett, and John Toomey for their incredible instruction and wisdom...and to Wynton Marsalis who generously "gave me the most humbling, most exhilarating lesson ever."

As a high school sophomore, he performed in Miyazaki, Japan and participated in the Vail Jazz Workshop (Colorado). Since then, he has played in Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola in Jazz at the Lincoln Center (NY); the Blue Note and Village Vanguard (NY) with Clark Terry; Blues Alley (DC) and the American Theatre (Hampton, VA) with Jae Sinnett; the JVC Jazz Festival (NY) with WPU's Jazz Ensemble, and in the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead Residency (DC). More recently, he has been performing with the Justin Kauflin Trio around the Hampton Roads, VA area, and Kennedy Center and Union Station in DC.

Personal Background
Born 1986 in Silver Spring, MD, Justin has three brothers and a sister. Despite the loss of his vision a decade ago, he remains focused on his abilities, excelling academically while constantly honing his art in jazz piano. Aside from music, Justin's passions include reading, Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches, his faith, languages, physics and P90X. He is deferring grad school and currently resides in Brooklyn, NY.