Today we’d like to introduce you to Greg Satterthwaite.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story is a woven web of Jamaican and American culture and experiences that have influenced my upbringing, education, and career as a musical artist and professor. I started playing the piano in elementary school and have always gravitated toward the feel and sound of the instrument. Creating sounds, textures, melodies, and harmonies on the black and white keys has been a part of my life for many years. The synergy created by performing and collaborating with other artists excites me, and I enjoy the musical dialogue that is created between musicians. My story can be musically heard on my first album, Who I Am (2014), and my second album, Savannah Blue (2023). Both albums reflect my journey and the musical statements I wanted to make at that time. I look forward to the release of my third album in the fall of 2024 on Ropeadope Records, which will be a continuation of expressing my roots, experiences, and point of view.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Some professions are not as encouraged as others, and aspiring to become a professional musician is not always looked upon as a viable and sustainable option. Being a musician is not always a smooth road. Finding and securing work is not always consistent and can present gaps in income and career advancement. Fortunately, I have been blessed to consistently have opportunities over the years. I have worked as a musical director for a large multi-campus church, I created my own private piano studio business, and I have taught master classes and clinics. I am a freelance musician and currently a professor at the University of Georgia. My education and experiences helped me qualify for jobs, performance opportunities, and network with others that furthered my connections and exposure as a performer. I hope to be an example for others who are creatives and want to embark upon the journey of becoming artists that thrive in all areas of their life.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a jazz pianist, educator, composer, and producer. I am the recipient of a distinguished South Arts 2023 Jazz Road award and an Assistant Professor of Jazz Piano and African American studies at the University of Georgia. I frequently collaborate with other artists and performers at various venues and festivals around the nation. I have graduated from some of the nation’s most prestigious jazz programs. I received a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of North Texas in Jazz Piano Performance, a Master of Arts in Commercial Music from Florida Atlantic University, and a Bachelor of Music from the University of Miami. As the co-founder of JazzSpire.org, I created this platform to champion the arts, other artists, and creative education. I am proud to continue to perform and teach others about the legacy and importance of jazz music. There are so many talented musicians around the world, and I am delighted to add to the creation of new sounds and offerings as I present my music to the world.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was very social, outgoing, and liked going to school. I was always interested in playing the piano. It was a way for me to express my talents and gifts. I performed gigs in high school, which allowed me to get paid for playing my instrument and perform with my friends around town. I attended an arts middle and high school. Being in such a creative environment every day during my teenage years was exciting and fueled my progress. It was the breeding ground for my future development and gave me the opportunity to learn, develop, and grow in a safe space.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gregonkeys.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregonkeys/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXME4IUKA5HsMMhWG2x2lqQ/featured
Image Credits
Katie Parker
Shaun Moss
Photo Credit: Girardo Gaspard
