Pianist Ryan Marquez landed the gig of a lifetime with Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

In September, jazz pianist Ryan Marquez was driving from St. Louis to Kansas City, eagerly awaiting a family outing to watch Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience with the Kansas City Symphony. The tickets were a belated birthday present from his parents.

While at a gas station along I-70, the musician received an unexpected call from an old friend with a lead on a gig. Legendary blues guitarist Vasti Jackson was in KC and searching for a pianist for a performance that evening.

Initially, Marquez was hesitant: He didn’t want to bail on his family and wasn’t particularly eager to learn more about an opportunity he’d likely have to turn down. “But I’ll hear any offer,” Marquez says. 

The performance turned out to be the very show Marquez was on his way to. Led by Freeman’s iconic narration and storytelling, the touring production melds Delta blues with lush, orchestral arrangements. 

“I’d much rather sit on stage than in the audience,” Marquez says. “It was a dream come true.”

While Marquez had logged countless hours playing with jazz and blues bands throughout his career, the nerves kicked in as he was escorted backstage to his dressing room—directly next door to Morgan Freeman. Ultimately, those pre-show jitters wore off. He was invited back to play the following night.

Beyond being a first-call pianist, Marquez is a versatile recording artist, producer and composer. Raised in KC’s Historic Northeast and later Liberty, he claims both KC and St. Louis equally as home, but recently the transient musician has also found his stride in Los Angeles.

“But my heart is in Missouri,” Marquez says.

On the West Coast, Marquez stays busy with production company House of Vibe, led by Anthony “Brew” Brewster and Phillip “Fish” Fisher, whose music direction and production credits include major artists like Chaka Khan, Britney Spears and Red Hot Chili Peppers. “They’re both big-time mentors to me,” Marquez says. “They’ve taken me under their wing these past couple of years.”

Now, Marquez is making an effort to spend more time back home and further entrench himself in the KC scene. Later this month, on November 20, the pianist’s trio will perform at Midtown cocktail bar Uptown Lounge, joined by bassist Andrew Voggesser and drummer Jaylen Ward. Beyond his original music, Marquez says listeners can expect reimagined pop classics and jazz standards.

“At its heart, my music is about connection, participation, and joy—bringing people together and helping them feel part of something greater,” Marquez says.

GO: Ryan Marquez Trio. November 20, 7 pm. Uptown Lounge. 3400 Main St., KCMO.

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