krzysztof pabian
basist
improviser
composer
about krzysztof pabian
Based in Chicago, Krzysztof Pabian is an accomplished acoustic and electric bass player, renowned for his improvisational skills, and a respected producer and composer.
Originating from Poland, where he received classical training, Krzysztof has since honed his craft in the United States under the tutelage of esteemed musicians from the Chicago Symphony—Joe Guastafeste, Stephen Lester, and Michael Hovnanian—and jazz legends such as Larry Grey. His exceptional technical and improvisational skills are a testament to this diverse and rigorous training.
While studying at Roosevelt University and later at renowned Northwestern University, where he graduated with two Masters degrees in classical and jazz music, he participated in several major music festivals such as Spoleto USA and Spoleto Italy, where he performed and recorded for various musical groups.
He has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and for several years was a member of Civic Orchestra of Chicago and an array of new music ensembles working with such conductors as Pierre Boulez, Daniel Barenboim, Christoph Eschenbach, Lawrence Foster, Zubin Mehta, Sir Georg Solti, Robert Spano, Christopher Wilkins, Pinchas Zukerman.
While at Northwestern he had a chance to study and play with visiting artists such as Max Roach, Danilo Perez, Peter Erskine, Judy Roberts, Ron Blake and Lincoln Center Jazz Sextet.
He shared the stage in various groups and settings with artists such as Eddie Henderson, Hamid Drake, Mars Williams, Jeb Bishop, Michael Zerang, Dave Rempis, Jason Stein, KT Sullivan, Jon Weber, Mark Walker, Dan Phillips, Ernie Adams, Howard Levy, Rusty Jones, Jarek Smietana, Adam Czerwinski, Jim Baker, Avreeayl Ra, Tim Daisy and Tim Mulvenna among others.
While focusing on improvisational approach, he navigates seamlessly between jazz and classical techniques that contributes for his unique sound and approach.
Krzysztof also produces, mixes and writes for other artists out of his Oknomedia recording studio.