Peter & the Master Keys’ music is the perfect blend of cool sophistication and rootsy soul. Specializing in American jazz and blues from the 40’s through 60’s (with a dash of rock n’ roll thrown into the mix), they pay homage to an earlier era of live music when real musicians played real instruments with finesse and feeling to connect to the audience.  Their fun and classic vibe is at once throwback and timely and has brought them to a range of venues from the chic downtown jazz cellar, The Django and edgy Sleep no More, to Sotheby's and Yale Club in the Upper East Side.  With three horns (trumpet, tenor sax, baritone sax) and a robust rhythm section (keys, guitar, upright bass, drums), you might even call them a “little” big band!

Whether you need music for a mellow cocktail hour or a high-energy dance party—or maybe even both—Peter & the Master Keys fits the bill. Throughout New York City and beyond, we’ve played countless weddings, events, private parties, and concerts at venues ranging from the prestigious to the informal. So if you’re looking to liven up your next party or event with the most swingin’ band around, look no further than Peter & the Master Keys.

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Peter Maness

New York City-based upright bassist, bandleader, & singer of jazz and blues

Peter grew up in North Carolina surrounded by great music: his father’s classical record collection, and the blues and bluegrass music that has always been a part of the Carolinas' cultural history. Peter received degrees in both music and Spanish, later teaching high school Spanish for two years. In 2006 he moved to New York City, where he has since played upright bass in various early jazz bands all across the city, and where he has also allowed himself to follow another one of his passions: singing and playing jazz, blues and rock n' roll.

Playing the triple role of bandleader, singer, and bassist, he channels and pays tribute to 1950's blues greats like Ray Charles, Johnny 'Guitar' Watson and others with an excitement and verve that is palpable. Now, with the creation of his own seven-piece mini big band Peter & the Master Keys, which performs Peter's original horn arrangements of 1950's jazz and blues songs, New York has taken notice. His band performs in distinguished venues around the city such as Sotheby's, the Manderley Bar at The McKittrick Hotel (home of 'Sleep No More') and others, and sells out shows at historic concert halls like the Coe House on Long Island. The Master keys have also become popular as a jazz band for wedding receptions and cocktail hours, having performed at New York's finest venues like the Yale Club and Harold Pratt House.

Contact us at petermaness@gmail.com or click below to book the band through Gigmasters.