معرفی
Kevin Turner serves as a Part-Time Instructor in the Department of Performing Arts at Ohio Wesleyan University, where he directs the Park Avenue Jazz Ensemble and guitar ensemble while providing applied guitar instruction for majors and non-majors. A Columbus native with over three decades of professional experience, Turner began performing at age 16 with the Hank Marr Trio and has collaborated with icons including Ray Charles and Kirk Whalum.
His educational background includes a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from The Ohio State University and a Master of Music Education from the University of Illinois. Prior academic appointments span The Ohio State University, University of Illinois, Fort Hayes Metropolitan High School for the Performing Arts, and Champaign Unit 4 School District where he taught orchestra/strings for 14 years.
Turner's expertise centers on Music Education, Guitar Performance, and Jazz Studies with specialized focus on Gospel Jazz. His pedagogical approach integrates professional performance experience with structured curriculum development, evidenced by his 2014 publications 'Beginning Guitar Class: A Semester Study' and 'The Rhythm Section Quick Guide'.
- Stellar Award nomination for gospel jazz CD 'HIM' (2005)
As an active performer, Turner tours with Grammy winner Kirk Whalum while maintaining campus ensemble direction. His teaching philosophy emphasizes practical skill development through ensemble participation, drawing directly from decades of stage experience. Current students benefit from his industry connections and real-world perspective on music careers.
Turner's leadership in the Park Avenue Jazz Ensemble provides Ohio Wesleyan students with professional-caliber performance opportunities, blending traditional jazz education with contemporary repertoire and improvisation techniques.
