BIO

Conrad draws from his background in band and ensemble music, distilled into solo piano performances that encompass the depth of his passion.

 

Conrad's music represents years of study. He earned his degree in music composition at DePaul University, with immersion in Minimalism and Classical Indian music, including percussion studies with Bob Tilles and Jazz studies with Alan Swain. His years of experience with masters of Chicago Blues began by performing and recording with Mighty Joe Young; touring, jamming and learning from Muddy Waters, B.B.King, Howlin' Wolf, Koko Taylor, Albert Collins, and Lonnie Brooks; recording with Hubert Sumlin, Homesick James and Lafayette Leake. His deep dive into Chicago House and Detroit Techno expanded his popular dance band's repertoire.

 

Conrad's music represents years of performance. He played flute and piccolo in school marching bands, contemporary music ensembles and student orchestra. He added keyboards, guitar and vocals to teen garage bands and numerous working cover bands, leading to recording session work, production and arrangement credits, and releasing his solo album, 'Not Marmosets Yet'. Conrad played guitar and slide in Chicago Blues clubs, Jazz and Blues Festivals in the U.S. and Europe. His performances were included on the Grammy-nominated 'Blues Deluxe' live album and in the James Caan/Michael Mann film 'Thief.' Conrad launched his dance band Rhythm City featuring Motown, Soul and Classic Rock, then expanded with Funk, Disco, House and HipHop, filling dance floors at clubs, fests, society parties and benefits throughout the Midwest. Currently focused on solo piano performances, Conrad has also added keyboards to the Progressive Rock band Continuum, Blues Rock band Delta Rising and Classic Rock band Todd & the Ten Pins.

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