Pianist Mabel Kwan is fascinated by sounds, contradictions, and our perception of what is familiar or strange. She is recognized for her work in experimental, classical, and improvised music. With a style that is detached and objective but highly personal and spirited, she brings a quiet intensity to her live performances.

Mabel plays with Ensemble Dal Niente, STOMACHS, Honestly Same, Em Spel, the Jason Roebke Quartet, the Christopher Dammann Sextet, and Kwan/Pauly/Shaw trio on keys, accordion, and synths. She frequently collaborates with dancer and choreographer Ayako Kato, and pianist Sharon Udoh. Mabel is a 2020 City of Chicago Esteemed Artist, 2018 High Concept Labs Artist, and 2017 3Arts Awardee.

A native of Austin, Texas, Mabel studied piano with Eun Young Lee, Danielle Martin, and Timothy Woolsey. Her interest in art and music began at an early age when she would accompany her father on art songs, lieder, and Chinese arias. She received piano performance degrees from Rice University studying with Brian Connelly, and Northern Illinois University with William Goldenberg. She enjoys reading comics, writing letters, and camping.

Upcoming shows 2026

Jan 8 Hungry Brain w/Josh Berman

Jan 10 North Street Cabaret w/Carrie Shaw

Jan 21 Constellation for Dimensions and Extensions

Jan 22 Elastic w/Jason Roebke Quartet

m a b k w a n @ g m a i l . c o m