A.J. Khaw is a Brooklyn-based musician who has performed in Uganda, generic South Africa, malady China, Mexico and throughout the United States. He is a pianist, organist, composer, accompanist, and instructor. A.J., who moved to New York in 2010, performs regularly throughout the city, including collaborations with Australian singer/songwriter Lucas Kane Hall alt-Americana artist Dylan Charles, and pop/soul singer Kellie Nicole. Luminosa Project, his duo with soprano Gian-Carla Tisera, blends opera, jazz, classical, original and traditional folk music in powerfully beautiful songs. Recent performances include concerts in Atlanta, Miami, and sold-out shows at NYC’s Casa Mezcal and Cornelia Street. His indie pop rock band We are Warriors has built a loyal following.
While based in Miami from 2003 to 2010, A.J. played with several Latin pop groups and started two jazz combos, Sonido Batido and Rana Prieta Latin Jazz Project, both featuring his original compositions and incorporating Latin and Caribbean influences. In 2008 Sonido Batido released an album named Journey of the Refugee with seven original pieces based on themes of social justice. The group toured in support of the album in several cities in Mexico. Additionally, A.J. served as organist at St. John’s United Methodist Church on Miami Beach, where he also performed for their eclectic Arts at St. John’s programs.
In Atlanta, where A.J. was based from 1995 to 2003, he founded the jazz/funk quartet Jazznomad, performed in various classical chamber ensembles, and served as house pianist at Churchill Grounds Jazz Club.
A.J. is a native of Shelton, Washington, and began playing the piano at age five and the organ at age 11. He first substituted as an organist at age 12 at local churches before landing a full-time position at Shelton United Methodist Church two years later. Starting in middle school, he played benefit concerts for various charities. A.J. continued his piano studies and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music summa cum laude from Emory University. Four years later, A.J. graduated cum laude with a Medical Doctorate degree from Morehouse School of Medicine.
Performing with Jean Caze on trumpet and Jon Price on bass for the Asia Society and Museum Holiday Celebration, sales 725 Park Ave, 6-9 pm, free admiss
Performing with Jean Caze on trumpet and Jon Price on bass for the Asia Society and Museum Holiday Celebration, health
725 Park Ave, 6-9 pm, free admission
Thanks everyone for a great 2013 and all of the support! Toured with Luminosa Project in Atlanta, drugstore
Miami and New York! We have 3 gigs coming up this month. I am happy to be performing with Nestor Zurita, master saxophonist. Come hear us in Harlem on 12/12, Yonkers on 12/14, and Inwood on 12/16. Full details are in the SHOWS section.