Kristen earned her B.A. in Saxophone Performance from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, studying with Les Thimmig and Richard Davis. While in Madison, Kristen organized a jazz quartet, in addition to working with various big bands, dance bands, jazz combos, and cover bands. Kristen has provided music ranging from events at museums and country clubs, to larger festivals and fairs. She has recorded for Madison’s 89.9 WORT radio station as well as America’s Community Network in California. Kristen has also worked as a woodwind specialist for both musical theater productions and church services. Here in Seattle she plays community festivals, including Alki Art Fair, Vashon Strawberry Festival, and Madaraka Festival. She also performs at local venues such as The Royal Room, Clock-out Lounge, The Triple Door, and TIMs.
Washington Collaborators: Jared Mitchell and the Wingtips, West Seattle Big Band, One Vibe Band, alberta & The Dead Eyes, Ancient Robotz.
California Collaborators: Empire Swing, Patrizia the Sultry Lady of Jazz, Persuasion, Schrödinger’s Jazz Cats, Danny King, Gail Jhonson of Jazz in Pink.
Wisconsin Collaborators: Green Means Go, Charlie Painter and Friends, Ben Ferris Quintet, Five Points Jazz Collective, Bill Sargent Big Band, Gary Kuchenbecker’s Old Lager Orchestra.
Instagram @kristenhemkemusic
