Born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and raised in Southern New Jersey, Ken McNair began playing at the tender age of 3 with no formal training. For a number of years, his only medium for practicing was quite literally weekly live performances in various churches throughout the New Jersey and Philadelphia area.
During high school, he was inspired to continue his quest for musical excellence, receiving many awards including two scholarships for Best Overall Outstanding Jazz Soloist to Berklee School of Music in Massachusetts. However, he decided to attend the University of Pittsburgh.
While pursuing Music at the University of Pittsburgh, he had the opportunity to play with the Jazz Ensemble directed by Dr. Nathan Davis and studied with Norman G. Humphries. While there, he also had the good fortune to play with some of the jazz greats like the late Eddie Harris, the late Ted Dunbar, Johnny Griffin, James Moody, Frank Foster, and Hank Crawford. During his time at the University, Ken was awarded the University of Pittsburgh Mellon Jazz Scholarship. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music.
While living in Pittsburgh, Ken entered the Pittsburgh jazz scene performing with the late Walt Harper and All That Jazz. As time went on, Ken played with a number of notable Pittsburgh musicians such as jazz vocalist Maureen Budway and in local jazz spots such as Dizzy's with Dwayne Dolphin and Jimmy Ponders, James Street Tavern with David Budway, and The Balcony in Shadyside. His reputation for unique style and professionalism spread throughout the jazz scene.
Ken's career highlights include doing a live recording with the Late Grover Washington Jr. called "More Than Meets The Eye". He has opened up for Average White Band and Tower of Power during their "Souled Out" Tour. He has played with Kenny Blake, Kirk Whalum, Ron Affif, Larry Coryell, Monty Alexander, Marilyn McCoo, Jennifer Holliday and many more.
