Mid-Century Modern: American Made Music | Tyler Kivel

This upcoming piano recital project invites audiences to embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating realm of mid-century American music and design, thoughtfully curated by a passionate pianist dedicated to inspiring a new generation. This highly anticipated concert will feature a vibrant selection of iconic melodies that have gracefully withstood the test of time, spotlighting beloved classics such as “Tea for Two,” the ever popular “West Side Story,” and the beautifully lyrical “All the Things You Are.” 

Infused with the aesthetic allure of mid-century design and furniture—a style that has seen a resurgence in popularity among millennials—the recital is set to showcase the enduring charm and cultural significance of this dynamic era. To add an exciting contemporary twist, the program will include the relatively new “Millennial Suite,” a clever homage that harmoniously bridges the rich musical heritage of the past with today’s influences. 

With its delightful fusion of nostalgia and modernity, this project promises to engage and captivate audiences, celebrating the timeless and evocative melodies that define mid-century American music while inviting a fresh perspective that resonates with today’s listeners. 

PROGRAM

Cy Walter Tea for Two 

Jacob Koller Moon River 

Percy Grainger Spoon River 

Samuel Barber Excursions, Op. 20 

I. Un poco allegro

II. In slow blues tempo

III. Allegretto

IV. Allegro molto 

Stephen Prutsman All The Things You Are for the left-hand alone 

Margaret Bonds Troubled Water 

Stephen Limbaugh Millennial Suite 

I. Prelude

II. Transfiguration

III. Nocturne

IV. Melody

V. Ballade

VI. Rhapsody 

Natalie Tenenbaum West Side Story Suite

Tyler Kivel is a Chicago-based pianist and collaborative artist whose work spans classical performance, contemporary music, and interdisciplinary projects. With degrees in Piano Performance from Central Michigan University (BM) and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (MM), Tyler has performed across the country at venues including Carnegie Hall, Chicago Symphony Center, and PianoForte Studios. 

A deeply curious and ever-evolving musician, Tyler is committed to creating meaningful experiences for audiences. He is known for his expressive playing and thoughtful programming, often bridging the gap between tradition and innovation. His work in The Great God Pan, a contemporary opera featuring prepared piano, earned national recognition for its artistic boldness and originality.

Tyler’s passion for collaboration has led him to work with a wide range of ensembles, from symphony orchestras to experimental duos. He is one half of Dual-Art, a piano and organ duo that presents imaginative transcriptions and inventive programs around the world. Their projects have included a Beethoven anniversary celebration, a Bastille Day concert of French repertoire, and a lecture recital in Sweden exploring the unique combination of organ and piano music. 

He trained with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago under the mentorship of former CSO keyboardist Mary Sauer, and made his Chicago debut as music director of Thrones! The Musical Parody, which earned him a live feature on Fox-32 News. He has appeared as a soloist with the LakeShore Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Metropolitan Orchestra, and has collaborated with groups such as Fifthhouse Ensemble and the renowned Alash Ensemble of Tuvan throat singers. 

Tyler has always valued adaptability, moving fluidly across musical genres and settings. In recent years, he has turned toward recital programming that blends classical repertoire with elements of popular music, reimagining what solo performance can look and feel like. During his artist residency in Flint, Michigan, he created a concert series titled Mr. POP-ular, exploring the cultural overlap between pop and classical traditions. His most recent project celebrates mid-century American music, inspired by the artistic energy of that era’s design and architecture. These performances feature works such as a brilliant set of variations on My Favorite Things, a lyrical left-hand arrangement of All the Things You Are, and a dynamic suite drawn from West Side Story. 

Beyond the piano, Tyler continues to expand his creative expression through improvisation and theater. He has studied at The Second City in Chicago with David Montgomery, integrating the spontaneity and human connection of improv into his musical life. Whether performing in concert halls or creating something new on stage, Tyler remains devoted to bringing audiences into the heart of the artistic experience.