Cecilia Coleman

Artistic, talented, dedicated - these are but three of the many attributes that describe pianist, composer and bandleader Cecilia Coleman. A native of Long Beach, CA and resident of New York, Coleman began to play piano at age 5 and at age 15 began to study jazz piano. From 1981-1986 she studied jazz piano with well known vibraphonist and teacher Charlie Shoemake as well as classical studies with Dr. Allan Giles. She is a potent pianist capable of performances that are both exciting and moving.

She has developed into an exceptional composer whose distinctive, varied pieces reflect where jazz has been and where it is going.

Coleman has led her own group since 1990 when she formed a trio with bassist Eric Von Essen and drummer Kendall Kay. In 1993 her quintet was formed. In addition to numerous club appearances Coleman has performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival, the Telluride Jazz Festival and the New Mexico Jazz Workshop. With the Quintet, Coleman has gone on to substantial acclaim in the Los Angeles Jazz scene and beyond.

She has five CD's out as a leader: "The Impostor","Higher Standards", "Home", "Young & Foolish" and "Words of Wisdom". She is also on three recordings of The American Jazz Institute headed by Mark Masters which feature Lee Konitz, Billy Harper, Jack Montrose, Ray Drummond, Tim Hagans and Gary Smulyan plus many more.