Kelby MacNayr

Drummer/ composer/ bandleader Kelby MacNayr performs in an array of musical styles both at home and abroad. Collaborating with leading musicians in every musical genre imaginable, Kelby makes his home where soul, creativity and passion connect.

MacNayr has honed his skills performing with some of the greats in Jazz including John Clayton, Neil Swainson, Misha Piatigorsky, Phil Dwyer, Louise Rose, Larry Fuller, Gary Smulyan, Terrell Stafford, Brad Turner, Ingrid Jensen and more.

His own working supergroup The Kelby MacNayr Quintet features five of the west coast's top jazz musicians creating innovative sounds, singable melodies with bold rhythms. Featuring tenor saxophonist Phil Dwyer, trumpeter Dan Lapp, pianist Miles Black and bassist Tom Wakeling, all bringing their musical mastery to the creative imagination of Kelby MacNayr.

MacNayr also leads the Great American Songbook trio featuring legendary pianist and vocalist Louise Rose, and bassist Joey Smith as well as the Kansas City inspired Swing Rhythm Kings celebrating the music of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole and Louis Armstrong.  A featured performer on CBC radio and television, National Public Radio in the United States and at festivals across Canada and the US, MacNayr also serves as Artistic Director of concert series and workshops and as a composer for theater and dance.