Gaea Schell

Known among her peers for swinging every note, subtle phrasing, and honest lyrical writing, this West Coast-based pianist/composer/vocalist (and flautist) is a native of western Canada where she grew up playing music from an early age. When pursuit of a classical harp degree led to checking out Oscar Peterson, Wynton Kelly and Bill Evans records in the school library, she was inspired to move east and subsequently graduated from the jazz program at acclaimed McGill University in Montreal.

The real learning, however, came from playing on the bandstand with respected elders who spent considerable time themselves playing with greats like Joe Henderson, Wynton Kelly, and Ella Fitzgerald. Gaea feels, "It's so important to listen and to experience and understand the tradition of this music."

Gaea recently made her California debut as a twice-featured performer at the San Jose Jazz Festival and has been performing professionally and internationally as a pianist and recently vocalist for many years in diverse contexts. Her experience includes everything from trio to quartet to orchestral performance. 

Gaea also performs as a duo or trio, in concert with stand-up bass and drums. She plays the flute as well as the piano in these settings.

Steadfast swing and elegance of expression—trademarks of Gaea Schell's music—guarantee her ability to engage her listeners.