BRAZZA

Tom Kassai commenced formal piano studies at the age of 4 years and to the present day is currently continuing his studies under the guidance of Elanora Sivan – former Professor of the Leningrad Conservatorium. Tom has also achieved his Bachelor of Music degree and Diploma of Jazz, both from the University of Adelaide.
Now at age 49, Tom has been a professional musician for the past 32 years. The early years from 1979 – 1988 saw Tom performing in groups playing commercial music, funk and rhythm and blues. From 1988 to present Tom has diversified into many different facets of the music industry including teaching, musical directing and theatre.

PORTFOLIO:
Theatre: Dancing Man - Keyboards
Big River - Assistant Musical Director and Keyboards
Me and My Girl - Assistant Musical Director
- Rehearsal and Show Pianist
King and I - Keyboards
Six O’Clock Rock - Musical Director, Arranger and Pianist
What’s Going On - Musical Director, Arranger and Pianist

Musical Tom had been the Musical Director/Arranger for the Australian Formula One Grand Prix Ball from 1990 – 1995 when the Grand Prix moved to Melbourne.
He has also been the Musical Director for numerous Corporate/Conventions and Corporate Award nights.
2001-Grand opening of the Adelaide Convention centre.
-Governors inaugural state dinner.
2002-Channel seven sports star of the year awards at the Adelaide Entertainment
centre,with Tom Burlinson.

Other: Venetta Fields – (Well known American Singer based in Australia)
Tom was Musical Director and Pianist for Venetta from 1990 -1994.

Tom was the only Australian member of the Lou Rawls tour, as his appointed Pianist. As well as the Musical Director for support act Venetta Fields throughout the National Tour.
Tom also supports visiting Jazz artists such as: Emily Remler – (New York Jazz guitarist).

FURTHER STUDIES: In 1988 Tom visited New York and had lessons with local Jazz Pianists. In 1995 Tom returned to New York under a scholarship grant and studied Jazz piano with Mulgrew Miller and Mike LeDonne.

CURRENTLY: Tom is currently teaching in the Jazz Department of the Adelaide University and has been since 1990. Besides Musical Directing, Tom leads his own Jazz & Latin Jazz Groups.