Kelly J. Utterback, Pianist
269-370-0985 ∙ kellyjutterback@gmail.com
"I am blessed that I get to do what I love to do every day,
sharing the gift of music with others.
Thank you to all who continue to make this possible!" - Kelly
Why I do what I do...
I believe we are each given unique abilities and talents to use and serve others. For me, playing the piano is my favorite way of expressing the joy of music with others.
There are countless benefits of music and the effect it has on the body, soul and mind. I have an incredible opportunity to work with students and adults of all ages, making great music together and sharing it with generations to come.
Where I'm currently playing...
During the school year, I accompany the Neapolitan Community Choir and Barron Collier’s High School Choral Program. I was blessed to tour with Barron Collier's concert choir to Italy in 2012 and Spain in 2015.
I absolutely love accompanying in the schools and working with students for Solo & Ensemble festivals, scholarship competitions, choir concerts, college auditions and student recitals.
In season, I also enjoy being the pianist for the Naples Brass, as well as playing in a jazz trio, entertaining at many local gatherings and events.
Further opportunities include accompanying the Marco Island Community Chorus and the Collier County and Lee County Honor Choirs, and collaborating with colleagues at Opera Naples, Gulfshore Opera, The Music Foundation of Greater Naples, local churches, Artis—Naples and Florida Gulf Coast University.
Where I studied...
I graduated with a BM in Music Education from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
While at WMU, I studied piano under Dr. David Gross and Dr. Lori Sims; performing works by Bach, Haydn, Chopin, Debussy, Grieg, Schumann, Mompou and Bolcomb.
I discovered my love for accompanying when working with students for juries and recitals. My accompanying repertoire especially grew in the brass area, working with trombone students of Dr. Steve Wolfinbarger, and trumpet students of Dr. Stephen Jones and Dr. Steven Thornburg. I was also a rehearsal accompanist for WMU’s Grand Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Joe Miller.
Since moving to Naples in 2009, I continue to learn and grow in the area of accompanying, thanks to many great colleagues with excellent musicianship. I cannot begin to name everyone, but you know who you are! Thank you!
How it all started...
In my parent’s living room, before I was even old enough to remember, my father would sit at the piano with me and play one-finger melodies with my right hand. I continued to learn with him by ear and started formal training at the age of five.
By middle school, I was accompanying the school choir, playing in the band, and leading services at church. I continued in music through high school and college, earning my degree at WMU in 2003.
I have since had experience as a church music director, elementary music teacher, a private studio teacher, a performer in chamber ensembles and currently, as a professional accompanist.
My joys in life...
My faith in God. Without HIM, I am nothing. Because of HIM, I can live a truly joyful and abundant life, putting my complete confidence in HIS bigger purpose.
My husband, Larry, and our many adventures, beach walks and sunsets together. Our journey is just beginning. I am BETTER because of you!
My family and friends. Your encouragement and support are so appreciated and you make doing life together fun!
Serving on the worship team at Next Level Church. Love worshipping, being challenged and growing in my faith with all of you each weekend! (www.nextlevelchurch.com )