The story behind the band. 

We are musicians, music educators, an author, and record label executives.

The Kent Anderson Collective reimagines classic hits from some of the most iconic artists ever — Grover Washington Jr., David Sanborn, George Benson, Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Al Green, and Ramsey Lewis — bringing new life to the songs that defined generations.

This isn't just a band. This is a collective of people who have spent their lives living inside the music. And it shows.
  • The Kent Anderson Collective is a versatile, groove-driven ensemble built around a core trio of keys, bass, and drums — expanding into a quartet or quintet with the addition of guitar or saxophone.
  • The music spans generations, genres, and styles — from jazz to contemporary smooth jazz and instrumental R&B — making 
  • The Kent Anderson Collective the perfect soundtrack for corporate functions, club dates, restaurants, lounges, anniversaries, birthdays, and weddings.
  • Whatever the occasion, we bring the groove.
Elegant Adult Music

Providing Quality Customized Live Entertainment

Elegant adult music, performed by adults for adults.

Kent Anderson — electric and double bass — is one of those rare figures who has lived music from every angle. A classically trained bassist with a degree in Performance, he has played everything from big bands and orchestras to rock, jazz fusion, and Broadway pit orchestras for national touring companies. Off the bandstand, he built a parallel career as a record executive, producer, music marketing consultant, and author of It's All About The Music Marketing Stupid — now in its second edition. He is the founder of C Sharp Consulting and an Adjunct Professor at Columbia College Chicago. When Kent plays, decades of music knowledge come with him.

Bill Giardini — keyboards — is a true musical chameleon. He has performed across blues, rock, Gypsy Jazz, show bands, and jazz trios, and has shared the stage with legends including Albert King, Buddy Miles, and Willie Dixon. His music industry pedigree is equally impressive, with positions held at Warner Music Group, Virgin Records, and Alligator Records. Bill brings both deep groove and serious credibility to every performance.

Bob Oppenheim — drums — is the heartbeat of the Collective. Rooted in both jazz and blues traditions, Bob brings years of experience performing with Chicago's finest to every gig. His pocket is deep, his timing is impeccable, and his feel for the music is exactly what this repertoire demands.

Together, they bring decades of world-class experience to every performance — and a shared commitment to provide an enjoyable, and classy music performance. 

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