Keenan John Meyer

Keenan Meyer is a distinguished South African pianist, celebrated for his virtuosic technique and profound musicality. Born in 1996, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Meyer has made significant contributions to the current South African Jazz scene and has garnered both national and international acclaim for his performances and compositions. His journey into the world of music began at an early age, influenced by a rich cultural backdrop and a deep-seated love for the piano.

Keenan Meyer grew up in a family that appreciated the arts, which played a crucial role in nurturing his musical talent. He began taking piano lessons at the age of 11 and quickly demonstrated exceptional aptitude. He was accepted into The National School of the Arts and matriculated with numerous academic and practical accolades including Top Music Student and Top Academic Achiever for 3 consecutive years from 2012 until 2014 as well as being named the Dux Scholar in his final year. 

In pursuit of tertiary education, Meyer enrolled and graduated with a Bachelor of Music (Honours) from the University of Pretoria, with majors in Music Psychology (with distinction) and Piano Methodology. Under the guidance of renowned South African pedagogues such as Professor Joseph Stanford, Dr Ben Schoeman, Dr Tessa Rhoodie and Professor Clorinda Panebianco, he honed his skills and developed a unique style characterized by sensitivity and expressiveness. He completed his Bachelor of Music (Honours) degree in 2018. His thirst for knowledge and passion for music led him to further his inquiries in the philosophical, neurological and spiritual implications of the art form.  His rigorous training, combined with his natural talent, positions him as a notable contributor to the Contemporary Jazz scene.

Meyer's professional career took off shortly after his graduation. He began performing across South Africa, curating culturally impactful live performance experiences, captivating audiences with his interpretations of Classical repertoire that ranged from Baroque masterpieces to Impressionistic works, to his own compositions. His interpretations of composers such as Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, and various South African composers earned him recognition in the musical community and among the South African audience.

One of his notable achievements was being awarded the prestigious Mandela Rhodes Scholarship in 2018. This accolade opened doors and solidified Meyer’s position as an important voice in the future of Jazz in South Africa and thought around the psychosocial and embodied effects of music. 

Meyer’s dedication to music is reflected not only in his concert performances but also in his commitment to education. He has been an advocate for music education in South Africa, conducting masterclasses and workshops for young aspiring musicians. His passion for nurturing the next generation of artists shines through in his teaching, and he has inspired many students to pursue their musical dreams. 

In 2024, he was announced as the Artist in Residence by University of Johannesburg Arts and Culture and was hosted by the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture. In the same year, he was awarded the Goethe-Institut Mobi-Arts Grant, which granted him...