Kent Strand, Solo Pianist

Kent Strand

Kent Strand has performed as a pianist at the top clubs and hotels in the Bay Area since 1988. Kent performed as a solo pianist and with his jazz trio at the Compass Rose at the Westin St. Francis Hotel and at the Redwood Room at the Clift Hotel. He also performed regularly at Stars Restaurant, the Ritz Carlton San Francisco, the Palace Hotel and for many corporate and private events.

“One of today’s best-kept secrets in piano jazz. A great classic jazz trio,” cites February 2004 Keyboard Magazine’s review of Kent’s latest CD.

Kent is the Entertainment Director / Band Leader / Pianist at San Francisco’s favorite nightclub, Harry Denton’s Starlight Room (HarryDenton.com), on the 21st floor of the Sir Francis Drake Hotel.

He has performed on National Public Radio on Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion show and on Billy Taylor’s Jazz Alive. He has backed comedians Bill Murray, Robin Williams, Paula Poundstone, and Martin Short. He performs regularly with members of Santana, Starship, War, The Steve Miller Band, Sheila E, Pete Escovedo, Prince, and Boz Scaggs.

Kent’s experience includes studio work, backing shows in Las Vegas, cruise ships, and performing at the George V Hotel in Paris in 1995 and 1997. He was the featured pianist for the 50th anniversary celebration of the United Nations where he played for the world’s ambassadors. He has also performed for President Barack Obama (October, 2009), President Jimmy Carter, the King of Norway, Robin Williams, Danielle Steel, etc.