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A special tribute celebration to the late Joey DeFrancesco.
Jazz Coterie concert series presents acclaimed New York jazz pianist/organist Ben Paterson! Ben will be playing the scruptious Hammond B3 organ with Wisconsin’s own Kelvin Kaspar on guitar and Zach Harmon on drums.
Combining a joyful swing feel with an impeccable touch, Steinway Artist Ben Paterson has established himself as one of the most exciting pianists and organists on the Jazz scene today, garnering international acclaim for his superb musicianship and engaging performances. Whether playing lush ballads on the piano, digging into some hard-driving blues-tinged organ jazz on the Hammond B3, or singing classic tunes by the likes of Ray Charles and Nat King Cole, Ben combines effortless technique with soulful honesty, drawing in both aficionados and Jazz neophytes alike.
“As soulful a pianist and organist as exists anywhere.”
“A monster on the Hammond B3.”
Originally from Philadelphia, Ben studied both classical and Jazz at the Settlement Music School before moving to the great city of Chicago to attend the University of Chicago. Paterson’s time spent in Chicago was spent absorbing the unique blend of Jazz and Blues that can only be found in the Windy City. Now based in New York, Ben brings his unique talents and style to a wider audience, performing regularly at top notch venues around town, and at clubs and festivals around the world.
Starting in 2005, Ben was honored to join the band of NEA jazz master Von Freeman, performing with him regularly until Von’s passing in August 2012. Other notable collaborations include work with Bobby Broom, Johnny O’Neal, Red Holloway, Eldee young, Jerry Weldon, Peter Bernstein and Ed Cherry to name a few, with performances opening for groups like Steely Dan and B.B. King.
“Paterson shapes his solos with care, using a nimble right hand to underscore his purpose while adding expansive chords when needed.”
In 2018, Ben was named as the First Place winner of the inaugural Ellis Marsalis International Jazz Piano Competition, with judges including Ellis and Branford Marsalis, Arturo O’Farrill and Jon Batiste.
In 2019 Paterson became one of only a few Jazz musicians who are designated Steinway Artists.
Paterson once said “Performing on a Steinway means having a piano in which you can have complete confidence.” Confidence he has. Paterson can take a simple blues and make it into this intricate piece that can mesmerize any fans of music. His sheer talent on the keys is enough to impress an audience. But when he starts singing in his deep soothing voice, it becomes amazing music that mixes the nitty gritty blues from Chicago, and the soothing gentle jazz from New York.
“It is particularly appealing that Paterson retains the sensitive touch and buoyant swing from his remarkable piano playing.”
Even though Paterson is a very successful musician. He still finds time to teach lessons to fans, or anybody who wants to learn the piano. Paterson has never had a big ego. He stays connected with his fans wherever he goes. Paterson even has a Patron. Currently he has been doing something called “Performance and Analysis” Each week he takes a classic Jazz or Blues standard, and plays a couple choruses, and then goes through and examines some of the key harmonic and improvisational concepts.