Stefan Karlsson was born and raised in Vastervik, Sweden. His father played the piano professionally and became the source of inspiration for Stefan's interest in piano and jazz. Stefan also started with church organ lessons at the age of 13 and studied organ into his college years.
After high school he came to the United States on a scholarship to study at the University of North Texas. Stefan spent six years at UNT and became, for three years, a member of the world renown "One O'clock Lab Band." While in the band, he toured nationally and internationally. Stefan graduated in 1991 with a Master's Degree in jazz studies performance. Also, in 1991, he received an award from UNT for "Outstanding Graduate Student" in jazz studies.
In 1990, Stefan signed a three-CD recording contract with Justice Records Houston, Texas. His latter two recordings were a great success on the national jazz radio charts, GAVIN and R&R, with a first place, on both charts, for his second release "The Road Not Taken." Stefan's fourth release, "Live at Vartan Jazz," was recorded in 1997 by Vartan Jazz Records in Denver, Colorado. The album is a live recording and features the world-renowned bassist Eddie Gomez and drummer Eliot Zigmund.
Further, in 1993, he signed an exclusive publishing agreement with Equity Music Corporation, Hollywood, California. His music has been featured in the 1994 movie releases "Sugar Hill" (featuring Wesley Snipes), "Twenty Bucks" (featuring Christopher Loyd), and the 1997 Independent film "Strays." Stefan's music can also frequently be heard on the television series "Melrose Place," "Party of Five," "Wings" and "Homicide."
After having resided in Denver, Colorado (1991-1994) and in Las Vegas, Nevada (1994-2002), fulfilling his duties as Coordinator of Jazz Studies, Stefan is currently a faculty member in the University of North Texas' jazz studies division. In addition, he has also been part of the Stanford Jazz Workshop for eight years working as a clinician and performer.
Stefan stays active playing at festivals, clubs and conferences worldwide as leader and sideman. His discography includes 47 recordings with seven CD's as leader. He is currently a recording artist on the Cambria/Troppe Note Record label.
Since 1996, Stefan has been a member of the Eddie Gomez Trio and Quartet (including Jimmy Cobb and Jeremy Steig) frequently touring Japan, Europe and the United States. The group has currently recorded four CD projects. In addition to performing with the Eddie Gomez group, he has also had the opportunity to share the stage and/or record with such jazz greats as: Rufus Reid, Marc Johnson, Red Mitchell, Tom Warrington, Tim Hagan, Dick Oatts, Chris Potter, Herb Ellis, Marvin Stamm, Bobby Shew, Richard Perry, Carl Fontana, Jiggs Wigham, Ed Soph, Marvin, "Smitty" Smith, Eliot Zigmund, Steve Houghton to mention a few.
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