K&K's Artist of the Month: Tommy Kesecker
January 2003
San
Francisco’s own Tommy Kesecker began studying drums at the age of 10 and
started playing Vaudeville Shows at Belrose Studio Theater in Marin County.
After Graduating from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music he concentrated
on vibes and composition. Tommy is noted for his hard driving linear approach
to the vibraphone. He also plays drums, marimba, Kat Midi controllers,
and percussion.
He joined ‘Zakir Hussain and the Rhythm Experience’ in 1988. The ensemble incorporates the rhythms of India, Cuba, Africa, the Middle East and Indonesia in a repertoire featuring complex rhythmic compositions. The odd cycles and intense percussive nature of the music make the 'Rhythm Experience' a perfect match for Tommy’s inspired improvisations and compositions.
Tommy joined the ‘Different Drums Percussion Group’ in 1992. The ensemble educates and delights children throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with an impressive collection of percussion instruments and highly engaging show featuring rhythms from throughout the world.
About the K&K Vibraphone System, Tommy says, "I have been using the K&K Midimaster for over 10 years. It's been extremly roadworthy and survived baggage handlers everywhere. A few years back I had my Marimba wired with K&K pickups. I have been using it live and for recording. I recently played marimba on 2 tracks on a Larry Vuckovich recording 'Blue Bulkan, Then & Now'. I played on the 'Now' part and Bobby Hutcherson played both vibes and Marimba on the 'Then' part (oh my!!). It's an exciting recording with a host of great players. I believe it's available at larryvuckovich.com."
Tommy has performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival, The World One Festival, The Russian River Jazz Festival and The San Francisco Jazz Festival. He has recorded with Zakir Hussain, George Brooks, Jim Campilongo, and BoGo, among others. He played for both "Mama Mia" and "The Full Monty" at the Orpheum Theater in San Francisco. He also currently teaches in the prep department at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Visit Tommy's webpage at TKVibes.com