Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenny Ard.
Hi Kenny, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I moved to SD from New Orleans in 1987. Began networking and playing music in local clubs both solo and with my New Orleans-themed band, Étouffée. Started doing some nights with vocalist and Broadway star, BJ Crosby. Joined the faculty at Grossmont College in 1988 and taught there for 36 years until recent retirement. Directed the SD Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Concert in 1999. Directed the newly formed men’s jazz vocal group, InaChord, for several years. Continued to perform in and around SD including currently at the popular Clark Cabaret located in the Diversionary Theater. Created the Ken Ard Piano Studio in my home in 1998 where I continue to teach students at home.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Yes, the road has been mostly smooth along the way. There have been periods when I worked 5-7 nights per week and continued to work my day job but mostly fun and exciting. Had some struggles working at another college with internal politics but other than that pretty smooth sailing.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I hold a Master’s Degree (MMA) in Classical piano performance. Professionally I play keyboard, sing, and entertain playing in piano bars and performing with various ensembles including m own combo, “Etouffée.” My New Orleans background where I started playing music professionally at the age of 12 sets me apart from other musicians with my unique New Orleans sound. I am most proud of my original two musicals, “The Delta Queen: and “Storyville, a Sweet Sportin’ Proposition”, both of which were produced in New Orleans. I have written an original college piano text, “Wow I Have Ten Fingers”, that I have used throughout my teaching career. My years of teaching entry-level piano sets me apart from others through my patience and understanding of the elements of teaching.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
The most major risk that I’ve ever taken was moving away from New Orleans to San Diego many years ago. I was quite well-known in New Orleans, leaving a promising career for a California adventure which I thought would only span a few years before my return to New Orleans. San Diego has been very good to me and as a result I am still here and now consider San Diego my forever home. When I retire I may take another risk and relocate to some new environment. I am always open to new adventures and possibilities.
Pricing:
- $75/ hour for private lessons
- TBD for professional performance engagements
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kennyard.com
- Instagram: kenny_ard1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kenny.ard.2025/about/
