Philip Kuehn

Bassist, Arranger, Composer, Educator

Philip Kuehn is a bassist, arranger, composer and educator who has performed professionally with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Jonathan Batiste, Branford Marsalis, Carl Allen, Rodney Jones,  Khristian Dentley of Take 6, Cyrille Aimee, Anthony Hamilton, Dr. Billy Taylor and Roy Hargrove, among others. Formerly the regular bassist for Jonathan Batiste’s groups, including the “Stay Human” band, Philip has made several guest appearances on the Late Show with Steven Colbert. Five of Philip’s arrangements for strings and choir appear on “Christmas with Jon Batiste”, featuring artists such as Aloe Blacc, Judith Hill, Sean Jones, and Jason Marsalis. His arrangements have been featured on CBS. The album placed #3 on the Billboard Jazz chart, and #1 on the Heatseeker's chart. He has also recorded with Cyrille Aimee, Khristian Dentley, Kirk Whalum, Justin Kauflin. He currently lives in Ephraim, Utah with his wife and three children, where he is the Director of Jazz Studies at Snow College.

Biography

Godin Bass

 

Philip Kuehn emerges as a consummate bassist, arranger, composer, and educator, boasting a professional journey intertwined with luminary figures in the music industry. With performances alongside esteemed artists such as Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Jonathan Batiste, Branford Marsalis, Khristian Dentley of Take 6, Cyrille Aimee, Anthony Hamilton, Dr. Billy Taylor, and Roy Hargrove, Kuehn's musical portfolio reflects an exceptional caliber of artistry.

Notably, Kuehn's resonating bass lines grace the soundtrack of the Grammy-winning Disney/Pixar film "Soul," attesting to his profound impact on the auditory landscape. His creative prowess extends beyond performance, highlighted by a collaboration with the legendary Quincy Jones to craft a remarkable arrangement for the Beethoven Orchester Bonn, commemorating Beethoven's 250th Anniversary.

Elevating his musical voyage, Kuehn recently took the stage alongside Jon Batiste at the White House during President Biden's State Dinner in December 2022, a testament to his artistry's recognition on the grand stage.

Formerly assuming the role of regular bassist for Jonathan Batiste's ensembles, including the iconic "Stay Human" band, Kuehn has graced the Late Show with Stephen Colbert through captivating guest appearances. His distinctive talent is showcased through five of his meticulously crafted arrangements for strings and choir, featured on "Christmas with Jon Batiste," a musical endeavor boasting luminaries such as Aloe Blacc, Judith Hill, Sean Jones, and Jason Marsalis. This collaboration achieved remarkable acclaim, claiming the #3 spot on the Billboard Jazz chart and securing the top position on the Heatseeker's chart.

Noteworthy collaborations extend further to Cyrille Aimee, Khristian Dentley, Kirk Whalum, and Justin Kauflin, solidifying Kuehn's standing as a versatile and dynamic force in the music realm.

Beyond his performance prowess, Philip Kuehn's musical odyssey commenced at an early age, shaped by the melodious guidance of his parents. Their nurturing of his innate musicality allowed him to sing melodies to classical compositions at the tender age of 4. This early foundation paved the way for a remarkable ascent, which saw him immerse himself in the Pittsburgh Jazz Scene at just 12 years old.

Supported by his parents, themselves musicians, Kuehn's formative years were enriched by lessons from esteemed mentors such as Dwayne Dolphin, Jeff Mangone, and Jeff Grubbs. Noteworthy drummer Roger Humphries extended his tutelage, inviting Kuehn to partake in jam sessions and gigs that fortified his musical prowess during high school.

A pivotal trio formed with childhood friends Joe Saylor and Angelo Versace, with their performances resonating through Western Pennsylvania and beyond. Kuehn's gratitude extends to mentors such as Nevin Saylor, whose influence further shaped his trajectory.

In the tapestry of his artistic journey, Philip Kuehn acknowledges the providence of God and the indelible impact of individuals who have contributed to his musical narrative. Currently residing in Eastern Pennsylvania, he continues to resonate with audiences and elevate the realm of music through his unparalleled skill and dedication.

Photographer: Lex Anderson, Excellence in the Community, Salt Lake City, UT

Musician: Philip Kuehn