Piano Meets Paintbrush

ABOUT MARKUS GOTTSCHLICH

“What cannot be debated is his skill as a player and a painter of emotion via music…the wealth of detail, the constant surprise, and the depth of emotion is present in virtually every moment.” – AllAboutJazz.com

Composer, Steinway Artist and nonprofit Executive Markus Gottschlich moved to the United States at an early age. Like his own life story, Markus’ music reflects a unique blend of “old world” and “new world.” In his captivating live performances, his lyricism and technique contribute to his highly individual sound. The global flavor with which his music is infused reveals an artistic journey that stretches far beyond his Austrian roots.

For his 2013 sophomore album release as a leader, “Of Places Between,” Markus teamed up with Grammy Award-winner Federico Britos, among other renowned artists. The album received critical acclaim and led to international touring opportunities. His 2020 album, “Found Sounds,” incorporates field recordings Markus collected on three continents over the span of four years. They serve as a springboard for the pianist’s lush compositions and improvisations, while featuring guest artists such as legendary trumpeter Bobby Shew.

After attending Admiral Farragut Academy,  Concordia College-NY and graduating from Western Connecticut State University in 2004, Markus moved to Miami to study intensively with South Florida pianist Mike Gerber for two years. In addition to performing as a solo pianist and with his ensembles, Markus curated numerous concert series in and around Miami, partnering with the Design District, Fisher Island, the Faena and numerous high profile venues. He also served as the Artistic Director of the Miami Beach Jazz Festival until 2016 and founded Jazz Academy Miami (JAM). 

In September of 2018, Markus was appointed to serve as the Executive Director of the New Mexico Jazz Workshop, reviving the organization’s festival, concert, and educational offerings. In late 2019, Markus accepted the role of Director of Music at Jazz House Kids / Montclair Jazz Festival, transitioning the organization’s youth and adult programs to an online/hybrid format and expanding its international reach. Markus then served as the Head of the Music Business department at the Vienna Music Institute and as a lecturer for jazz piano and composition. 

Returning to Florida in the summer of 2022, Markus has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Warehouse Arts District Association in St. Petersburg.

Additionally, in early 2020, Markus contributed compositions to the original motion picture soundtrack of the Egyptian blockbuster, “Ras El Sana.” Markus has been featured in Downbeat Magazine and has served as juror for many competitions and showcase festivals, such as the Steinway Piano Competition and JazzAhead! in Germany. He maintains a busy schedule, performing and conducting clinics in the U.S., Europe and Asia while working on new compositions and commissioned works.

“What cannot be debated is Gottschlich’s skill as a player and a painter of emotion via music…the wealth of detail, the constant surprise, and the depth of emotion is present in virtually every moment.” – AllAboutJazz.com

“Advancing a multicultural aesthetic with a Viennese accent and tempered by an urbane sensibility.” – Downbeat Magazine

“…elegant, melodically remarkable ideas” – The Standard, Austria

“A lyrical, high-energy, and risk taking pianist”- Albuquerque Magazine

“The piano is an extension of Markus Gottschlich’s personality as truly as the trumpet was a conduit for Dizzy Gillespie’s voice.”- Jazzreview

“Pianist Markus Gottschlich is poised to become one of the country’s leading jazz performers.” – Miami Magazine 

Check out markusgottschlich.com

ABOUT JIM KAMMERUD

Jim has always been an artist and storyteller. He wrote and directed several animated Disney movies and storyboarded many others, like The Peanuts Movie and Space Jam (the original and the terrible sequel). He’s raised five kids and married the best girl in the world, artist Janie Haskins. Now he’s in Saint Pete drawing and painting fine art–but still always telling a story. Jim finds beauty in the human form, in our unique faces, in the connection between people and our environment, and in the joy of being with each other.  

Check out jimkammerud.com