Ken Ford (violinist) facts for kids

Ken Ford is an American musician. He is famous for playing the violin. He was born on November 14, 1968. Ken Ford started his music journey as a classical violinist. Over time, he also began playing and recording music in other styles. These include jazz, R&B, and contemporary jazz.

Ken Ford's Early Life

Ken Ford was born in St. Louis, Missouri. He lived in Detroit, Michigan, for a while. Later, his family moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where they settled. His father was a DJ, so Ken grew up listening to lots of music. He heard jazz, blues, and R&B from artists like Earth, Wind & Fire.

When he was nine years old, Ken chose the violin. He had tried many other instruments before this. In Atlanta, he learned to play the violin in a classical style. Teachers from the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra helped him. He also helped start the DeKalb Youth Pops Orchestra.

Ken joined another group called the African American Philharmonic Orchestra (AAPO). He worked hard and became the Concert Master. This means he was the lead violinist. While with the AAPO, he even performed for the famous singer Barry White. Ken was also a DJ for some time, just like his dad. He was inspired by musicians like Stevie Wonder and violinists Noel Pointer and Jean-Luc Ponty.

Ken's mother wanted him to have a backup plan. So, he earned a degree in Computer Information Systems. But music was his true passion. He became well-known in Atlanta's music scene. In the mid-1990s, he decided to become a full-time musician.

Ken Ford's Music Career

Ken Ford has recorded music with many famous artists. These include Bruno Mars, Chaka Khan, Maxwell, and Cee Lo Green. He has released several albums. His albums include Burnt Toast (2001) and Right Now (2009).

Ken Ford also cares a lot about music education. He supports young people learning music. He hosts special events to raise money for music programs. When he tours, he meets with kids to teach them about music.

In July 2010, he started the Ken Ford Foundation. This foundation helps support arts and music education for children. He wants to show kids that the violin is not just for classical music. He believes it can be a fun and exciting instrument for all kinds of music.

Ken Ford's Albums

• 2001 Burnt Toast
• 2003 Chevelle Lane
• 2009 Right Now
• 2011 State of Mind