Background
MM, DePaul University
Kevin Fort has established himself as one of the most in-demand pianists on the Chicago jazz scene. Praised for his "thrilling virtuosity and agile, vibrant improvisations," (Chicago Jazz Magazine) and as “one of those rare piano players who can temper his technical brilliance in the service of the composition” (Scene Newspaper). Kevin is a champion of the straight-ahead jazz tradition while embracing modern influences. He has performed and/or recorded with artists such as Bob Brookmeyer, John Clayton, James Moody, Ira Sullivan, Slide Hampton, Phil Woods, Steve Turre, Bill Watrous, John Pizzarelli, Harry Allen, Melissa Aldana, and Makaya McCraven.
Kevin's early inspiration for jazz came from his father’s love of the alto saxophone. Eavesdropping on jam sessions at the house and regularly listening to his dad’s classic jazz record collection helped to refine Kevin’s ear and develop his appreciation for the music.
After high school, Kevin enrolled at the DePaul University School of Music, where he graduated with highest honors, earning both his BA and MM in Jazz Studies. During this time, he studied under the great Chicago pianist Larry Novak, who played a significant role in shaping Kevin’s artistic voice.
The Kevin Fort Trio, which features Joe Policastro on bass and Jon Deitemyer on drums, has been described as "one of the finest working piano trios in the business" (All About Jazz). With a sound rooted in bebop and a commitment to both classic and original compositions, the trio has released three albums—Red Gold, Perspectives, and Twilight - each capturing the group’s traditional yet innovative approach to jazz. Their recordings have garnered over 3 million streams worldwide and have been featured on 22 Spotify editorial playlists. With their fourth album, Everything I Love, slated for release in 2025, the trio continues to push forward in the field of straight-ahead jazz while honoring the genre’s rich legacy.
Currently, Kevin serves as a faculty member at the Northwestern University Bienen School of Music, where he mentors the next generation of jazz musicians.
Kevin Fort is a Yamaha Artist.
Bienen Ensembles