Photo by Neil SchlonerCross-genre cellist Aaron Kerr has been performing for over forty years. His electric and acoustic cello performances feature on over fifty albums nationally and internationally, and he's received some of the highest honors in music-making, including awards and nominations from the McKnight Foundation and The Independent Music Awards. His playing and compositions comprise a unique amalgam of styles: “a cross between the dissonance of modern classical music with the driving intensity of heavy metal and the thin line between genius and madness of free form jazz.” - Tyson Allison, Emperor Penguin Records.

Aaron immersed himself in rock, classical and jazz at an early age. Trained by symphonic cellists and mentored by jazz greats, he has performed in bands constantly ever since. After composition training in college, Aaron combined all these styles and made them his own. In 2006, he wrote and recorded his first solo album, Arco 71, and was honored by The McKnight Foundation for this effort.

Since then, Aaron has written and recorded more albums, all exploring the intersection of his playing and distinctive composition with other styles of music. With each solo project, Aaron refines his approach. His compositions are sharp and direct, his playing unexpected and intense. His newest album, Scorpio Rising, will be released in 2025, followed by a multi-state tour.

Aaron is constantly involved in side projects with members of the music community of the upper Midwest, especially players from Minnesota and Wisconsin. He will take on any musical challenge and perform in any style. He will perfect any piece of music set in front of him. He will immerse himself in any recording and make it explosive. He will elevate any composition. It is Aaron’s constant goal to celebrate art and create a world of amazing music.