Biography
“ Corbin Keep,
originally from Seattle, Washington, is a unique, gifted cellist and multifarious
musican. ”
A rich and
diverse musical background began at age eight with guitar, followed
by his introduction to the cello when he was twelve. Interest in many styles
was apparent early on; in high school, he excelled in both the classical
and jazz areas. At 17, he had his first pickup and effects pedal for his
cello, which he played, along with guitar, in the school jazz combo.
University
followed and over the course of three years at two schools (U. of
CO at Denver and Western WA U. in Bellingham, WA) all but two of his courses
were in music. Five years on the road were next, playing pop, rock,
metal and even some country in bands and a one-of-a-kind experimental duo
called 'Meet Men Not Machines'. This featured Corbin on guitar, electric
cellos, Taurus pedals and vocals, with a partner playing 'body drums'
(their invention) keyboards and vocals.
Within a year
after the demise of the 'Meet Men', Corbin's life and musical interests
had shifted dramatically. Preferring acoustic cello over all of his other
instruments, he began doing 'cello portraits,' (improvised sound readings
of people), work with an improvisational theatre company, dance troupes,
art show openings, plus occasional performances with various acoustic ensembles.
In 1993, ending a six year hiatus from being a full-time professional
musician, Corbin returned to the scene with a new solo act featuring the
combination of cello and voice, playing a wide variety of music,
in settings ranging from intimate coffeehouses to opening for rock bands.
In 2002, Corbin
was a presenter at the annual New Directions Cello Festival, where he played
a solo concert and led workshops on alternative cello techniques. He returned
to this same festival in '05 & '06, and has also appeared at a number
of other music festivals in the US and Canada. Past
Tour Dates