BACKGROUND:
Originally from Port Huron, Michigan, Ray Akers began his formal studies in piano at Michigan State University. He later went on to attend Bellarmine College and the Naval School of Music to further his music studies. Ray also a graduatue of DeVry University in Electronics and Computer Technology to stage his background for electronic music and music media.
PERFORMANCE:
As a performing artist, Ray has worked as a professional musician for the last 25 years performing around the world in more than 20 different countries with various ensembles. He has recorded on numerous albums with various artists to include the Army Ground Forces Band and Orquesta Sensacional. Ray is fluent and proficient in many different styles and genres of music. Specializing in jazz and Latin styles, he is truly a master improviser and soloist. Ray's style of playing is influenced by artist like Herbie Hancock, Chic Corea, Oscar Peterson, and Thelonious Monk. Ray has also performed with some of the most accomplished musicians from around the world to include Grover Washington Jr., Alfie Moss, Abdu Salim and Jamie Abersold. He has also had the distinguished honor to perform for former presidents Ronald Regan and George Bush. Ray aspires to be the consumate musician.
EDUCATOR EXPERIENCE:
Ray served as the Music Media/MIDI Specialist and piano instructor at the Naval School of Music during the mid and late 90's. His expertise allowed him to design, develop, and implement a music media/MIDI program for the Armed Forces Music Program. This program played a significant role in futurizing the way military musician's train, produce, and perform music. As a private instructor, Ray has continued to developed and influence many musicians at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels of training. His practical, systematic, and thorough teaching method allows students to develop quickly and rise to their full potential. Retiring from military music recently, Ray is busy working on various recording projects, freelancing as a pianist/keyboardist, teaching private lessons, and providing music media services in the greater Atlanta area.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
For More Information, contact Ray Akers at www.musicstation54.net, or rayakers@musicstation54.net, or 770.355.5006. |
