Kevin Coates

Job Description

I am a full time musician, which means I perform constantly (5-8 shows per week) in all kinds of venues. I also write and record my own music (I have just released my fourth album of original music). I produce my own albums, which means I write, arrange, perform on and assemble the rest of the musicians for each record. As a performer, I play solo, duo, trio and full band, depending on the needs of the group who hires me. I was also a high school teacher for 32 years (teaching primarily English and Music), as well as the Arts Program Head.

Career Story

I started taking music lessons when I was seven years old and have never stopped playing. My main instruments are piano, singing, guitar, accordion and percussion. When I was in grade 10 I formed my first band, playing piano and lead vocals. I have been in dozens of bands since. In high school, I got very interested in songwriting and began doing that. I eventually went to University of Waterloo (I grew up in Burlington) and completed a four year Honours Degree in English, as well as numerous Music courses. I went into English because I love books, ideas, and generally wanted to become a better lyricist. I got my Bachelor or Education at University of Toronto, with teachables in English and Music. As a high school teacher, I loved being involved in Coffee Houses, Musicals, songwriting clubs, etc. Music has always been at the core of what I do. Since retiring from teaching in 2019, I have been a full time performing musician, and I really love it.