Karyn Quinn is a sought-after bassist in the Midwest, known for her ability to provide the perfect "bottom line" across various musical genres. Masterful on both electric and double bass, she effortlessly transitions between jazz, pop, and classical music.

Karyn regularly performs with the La Crosse Jazz Orchestra, Safe Passage Jazz Quartet.  Beyond ensemble performances, Karyn is a top freelance artist, having worked with notables like Kurt Elling, Wycliffe Gordon, Byron Stripling, Delfeayo Marsalis, Eric Alexander, and Tom Wopat. 

Based in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Karyn is also a respected educator. She holds emeritus status from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse, where she led jazz ensembles, taught bass, and developed courses in jazz history, improvisation, and music theory. She actively serves as a clinician at school programs and festivals throughout the mid-west. Her recent workshops and residencies include the Shell Lake Arts Center Summer Jazz Band Camps, South Dakota All-State Jazz Combo, the University of Kansas Summer Jazz Camps, and the Shanghai Jazz Education Festival and Competition.

A member of the International Society of Bassists, Karyn holds a Master of Music in Bass Performance and Jazz Pedagogy from the University of Northern Colorado and a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse. She received a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship to study with bassist Rufus Reid and has attended master classes with Gary Karr.

Discography

Karyn's recordings include her trio album “Great Days” (2012), the Jazz MN Orchestra's "The Commission Project" (2018), and Jon Ailabouni's "You Are Not Alone" (2023).  Her work on these projects highlights her talent and creativity.

Karyn continues to inspire with her exceptional skills and passion for music.