KEITH KARNS

How to Teach Jazz: Success Strategies for the Classical Trumpet Studio

Keith Karns is a trumpet player, arranger, and educator based outside of Seattle Washington. He has worked with some of the top names in jazz including Rich Perry, Stefon Harris, Lauren Sevian, Kenni Holmen, Greta Matassa, and Benny Golson. 

Keith is the director of jazz at Central Washington University where he directs jazz ensembles, coaches combos, teaches jazz improvisation, and jazz arranging. His teachers include:  John Harbaugh, Bob Baca, Bill Adam, David Baker, Joey Tartell, Pat Harbison, Jay Saunders, John Murphy, and Rich DeRosa. He holds degrees from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire, Indiana University, and the University of North Texas. 

Keith performs on a custom trumpet built by Fred Powell. Keith is a torpedo bags performing artist, and uses torpedo bags to transport and protect all of his trumpets.