Phil Kelly

Phil Kelly is a seasoned composer, arranger, and musician with over 40 years of experience in the industry, having worked on compositions for film, TV, and various media platforms.

Throughout his career, Phil has collaborated with renowned bands and artists such as Bill Watrous' NY Wildlife Refuge, Doc Severinsen, and Buddy Greco, showcasing his skills as an arranger, conductor, and drummer.

His background includes extensive work as a jazz drummer with notable performers like Terry Gibbs, Red Garland, and Denny Zeitlin, in addition to serving as a studio and recording drummer.

Phil Kelly has been a pivotal figure as the primary arranger for the Fort Worth Symphony Pops series for over 25 years, creating custom pop symphonic scores for iconic musicians like Doc Severinsen and Peter Nero.

He has also had the privilege of having his arrangements performed by prestigious symphony orchestras including those in Houston, Dallas, Detroit, Cincinnati, and North Carolina.

Currently residing in Bellingham WA, Phil remains active in the music scene by composing jazz and pop orchestra arrangements for publication and commissions, while also conducting college clinics focusing on film scoring and media music.

His contributions extend to the realm of big band music with Grammy-nominated albums like "Convergence Zone" and notable releases such as "My Museum" and "Ballet of the Bouncing Beagles."

Recently, Phil Kelly has completed projects with artists like Primo Kim and Stix Hooper, showcasing his versatility in genres ranging from jazz to R&B.

In his music career, Phil specializes in orchestral sweetening for pop and R&B recordings, as well as offers expertise in recording and mixing supervision for jazz and pop music projects.

His educational background includes studies at the Cincinnati Conservatory, Timken HS, and a BFA with a music minor in graphic arts from Miami University.

Phil Kelly has been associated with prominent organizations like Phil Kelly Music as a composer, arranger, orchestrator, and music producer, reflecting his multifaceted talents and contributions to the music industry.