Keshenais a seasoned vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and passionate educator with over thirty years of experience in the music industry. A self-taught instrumentalist, Keshena's musical journey began in the church, where she honed her talents on organ, violin, drums, and keyboard, eventually directing the choir by her teenage years. She went on to study music theory, performance, and jazz vocals under Adekola Adedapo and earned an associate degree in Music Occupations from MATC. Known for her soulful, versatile voice, Keshena has performed everything from folk to blues to rock 'n' roll, and has toured extensively with a variety of projects, including the legendary King Solomon Reggae band and her own 7-piece band, Shuga Blu. Whether teaching or performing, her goal is to create an immersive experience that touches the soul of her audience. Keshena's deep connection to her craft, coupled with her love for sharing music, continues to drive her work as an educator and performer. Stay connected with her upcoming projects at
Keshena Ar. has over 30+ years of music experience in the Milwaukee area.
Keshena Ar. is proficient in and teaches Drum Lessons, Keyboard and Piano Lessons, Vocal Lessons, Song Writing Lessons .
Degree and Field of Study:
Music Theory, Jazz December
Wisconsin Conservatory of Music
Associate Degree, Music OccupationsSeptember 2003
Milwaukee Area Technical College
What to expect in my Vocal Lessons
Beginner - Intermediate - Advanced
Beginner, intermediate and advanced learning for the passionate singer. Specializing in reggae, gospel, jazz, rock, pop, r&b and soul music genres.
What to expect in my Keyboard and Piano Lessons
Beginner - Intermediate
Beginner, intermediate and advanced learning for keyboard and piano. Specializing in reggae, gospel, jazz, rock, pop, r&b and soul music genres.
What to expect in my Drum Lessons
Beginner - Intermediate
Beginner and intermediate fundamentals for drumming. Specializing in reggae, gospel, jazz, rock, pop, r&b and soul music genres.
What to expect in my Song Writing Lessons
Beginner - Intermediate - Advanced
Beginner, intermediate and advanced learning of songwriting. Specializing in reggae, gospel, jazz, rock, pop, r&b and soul music genres.
Formal Education:
Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, Jazz Vocalist & Theory; Theory-2000 Milwaukee Area Technical College, Music Occupations Program-2003
Private Education:
Bembe Drumming 2022
Performing Experience:
Keshena has had an exciting and varied performance schedule throughout the years, showcasing her versatility as both a solo artist and a member of multiple bands. In early 2024, she performed with her own group, Shuga Blu, at venues like Saint Kate Arts Hotel and Monarch Lounge in Milwaukee, as well as curating special events such as the "Shuga Blu Celebrates" series. She also joined the All-Night Long Show Band for tribute performances, including Dolly Parton, Elvis, Neil Diamond, and Cher at venues throughout the Midwest. Her schedule regularly includes prominent events at the largest music festival in the world, Summerfest, Milwaukee's beloved WI State Fair with King Solomon Reggae Band, and the Zoo A La Carte at the Milwaukee County Zoo, where she performed solo and with Shuga Blu. Keshena's commitment to live performance is evident, with a busy calendar that also featured private events, festivals, and regional gigs. From intimate venues to large festivals, the passionate musician continues to captivate audiences with her soulful voice and dynamic stage presence.
Experience Teaching:
Began teaching choir and small groups at age 12 in church and, after graduating high school, continued to share her love for music through teaching piano, voice, theory, performance and ear training, eventually leading up to starting her own small music business in 2008. Keshena now manages her band and while a vital part at Milwaukee Area Technical College in the Music and Audio Program.
Genres Taught:
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Rock
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Pop
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Folk
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Funk
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Soul
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Reggae
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HipHop
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Blues
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Jazz
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Classical
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Country
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Acoustic
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Christian
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R&B
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Gospel
Availability:
Day |
Start Time |
End Time |
Detailed View |
Mon
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11:00am |
6:00pm |
View |
Tue
|
off |
off |
View |
Wed
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11:00am |
4:00pm |
View |
Thu
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off |
off |
View |
Fri
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10:00am |
2:00pm |
View |
Sat
|
11:00am |
3:00pm |
View |
Sun
|
off |
off |
View |
Last updated on 11/11/2024
Map:
Keshena Ar. is willing to travel up to a distance of 5 Miles to teach a lesson in your home.