Background
MM, DePaul University
Kevin Fort has established himself as one of the most in demand pianists on the Chicago jazz scene. Since moving to the city in 1999, he has performed with such icons as Bob Brookmeyer, John Clayton, James Moody, Ira Sullivan, Slide Hampton, Phil Woods, Steve Turre, Bill Watrous, and Louie Bellson, as well as the next generation of great jazz artists including Makaya McCraven, Matt Ulery, Jeff Parker, Andy Brown, Caroline Davis, and Dana Hall. Notable venues include Symphony Center, the Chicago Theatre, the Jazz Showcase, the Green Mill, and Ravinia.
Kevin attended the DePaul University School of Music where he graduated with highest honors with both his BA and MM in Jazz Studies. Since then, he has recorded two albums as a leader, Red Gold (2014) and Perspectives (2022). He has appeared as a sideman on many others.
In addition to performing, Kevin has long been an active jazz educator. Prior to joining the faculty at Northwestern University, Kevin served as a faculty member at both Benedictine University and Moraine Valley Community College.