Biography + CV
Bio
Powers programmed his first drum machine at the age of 11, and began playing piano professionally at the age of 15. As a bioconstructivist composer and designer, his work integrates digital software, biomorphic patterns, found materials, obsolete machines, and traditional compositional methods, in order to produce images of an emancipated utopian future.
Powers studied composition under the late C. Curtis-Smith. He has performed with such jazz luminaries as Roscoe Mitchell, William Parker, Billy Hart, and John Patitucci. As a professional pianist, he has performed in a diverse range of settings, and previous employers include Seabourn Cruise Line, the Hyde Park School of Ballet, and the Columbia College School of Dance.
Alongside his involvement in classical and jazz, Powers has been active as a performer and DJ in the underground techno scene. In the year 1999, under the pseudonym Cyborg K, Powers began playing all hardware techno live PA's at underground parties in Kalamazoo and Detroit, alongside techno masters such as Jay Denham, Dan Bell, and Oliver Ho. Over the years, he refined his sound, branching into deep house and minimal, and producing tracks for labels such as Hej, Klectik, Akbal Music, Fresh Meat Records, and Cryovac.
Professional Experience
2018 - present
Record Label Owner — Santos y Diablos
Founded the underground record label Santos y Diablos to provide an outlet for visionary and unique musical projects outside the mainstream.
2004 - present
Freelance Pianist
Provided private piano instruction and performed at restaurants, concerts and private events in the Austin, Detroit, and Chicago metro areas; accompanied dance classes at the Columbia College School of Dance and the Hyde Park School of Ballet.
2000 - 2002
Show Band Pianist — Carnival Cruise Lines
Performed on piano multiple times per week aboard several Carnival cruise ships based in the Caribbean.
1999
Show Band Pianist — Seabourne Cruise Lines
Performed on piano multiple times per week aboard a Seabourne cruise ship based in the Caribbean.
1998 - present
Solo Performer, Producer & Recording Artist — Cyborg K / Dave Powers / PAD 9000
Performed electronic music live as a solo artist at events throughout the US, in both supporting and headlining roles. Produced and recorded vinyl and digital releases for multiple record labels (see discography).
1998 - 2005
Band Leader — Zaragoza Quartet
Performed original “world-jazz” compositions by David A. Powers in Kalamazoo, MI and Chicago, IL. Four piece quartet featured keyboards, saxophone, bass, and drums.
1996 - 2005
Band Leader — The Merry Dials
Performed indie rock compositions by David A. Powers in Kalamazoo, MI and Chicago, IL. Original line up included Laith Al-Saadi on guitar and vocals, Michael Caskey on drums, and Paul Hartsaw on tenor saxophone.
Awards
1993, 1994, 1995
All Star Jazz Combo Performances — Ocho Rios Jazz Festival
Performed in all star jazz combos on piano, at Ocho Rios Jazz Festival and throughout Jamaica; bands featured young players from across Michigan (Michigan Young Lions, 1993) and throughout the US (1994, 1995).
1993
Outstanding Performance — Western Invitation Jazz Festival
Won “Outstanding Performance” awards on both piano and tenor saxophone while performing with Alma High School jazz bands at Western Michigan University’s annual jazz festival.
1993
Outstanding Soloist — CMU Jazz Weekend
Won “Outstanding Soloist” award while performing with the Alma High School jazz band at Central Michigan University’s annual Jazz Weekend event.