College of Charleston Alum Is All Jazzed Up

Kevin Patton ’14 always believed a degree in computer science would pave the way to a secure future, but his time at the College of Charleston opened the door to a career rooted in his passion for music. 

From middle school on, Patton immersed himself in music. He strived to learn everything from saxophone to piano. He always saw music as a hobby, a creative outlet to balance what he assumed would be a more conventional career in technology.  

When the North Charleston native searched for the perfect university, he felt called to the College. He knew the campus and individualized attention would help him be successful. 

“The College is the city, and the city is the College,” says Patton. “I knew CofC would give me an invaluable education, and the city’s vibrant scene would open up a wealth of networking opportunities.” 

Double-majoring in computer science and music, Patton felt computer science would be his career to start, but the personal attention and encouragement he received from the Department of Music sparked a realization that music was more than just a pastime – it could be a career.

All That Jazz

Patton credits his professors and the College community for showing him that a career as a jazz musician was possible with a strong work ethic. 

Over the years Patton’s relationship with one of his professors, Robert Lewis, visiting professor of music and director of jazz studies, has grown into a strong friendship.  

“Kevin was a wonderful student,” says Lewis. “He came in as one of the most talented kids we’ve had in the program and always had a great work ethic. I actually learned a lot teaching him, because his natural gifts are very different from mine, so we had to figure out a way to communicate concepts that made sense to both of us.” 

Recalling his time as a student under Lewis, Patton says, “He was one of the hardest professors I had during my time at the College. He saw my potential and knew what I was capable of. He pushed me beyond my limits, and for that I am forever grateful. He is now a colleague of mine at the Charleston Jazz Orchestra. I have enjoyed seeing how our relationship has grown from when I was a student to a professional musician. 

“Some of my favorite moments at the College were spent in the practice rooms,” he adds as he walks the halls of Simons Center for the Arts. “That’s where I composed much of my first album. Even now, walking through a renovated Simons brings back memories. I imagine where I was then to where I am now in my music career; seeing my growth and improvement over time has been inspiring.” 

The Next Stage

Patton is now a saxophonist and composer, performing his work at events such as Piccolo Spoleto, the Savannah Black Heritage Festival and the Atlanta Heritage Music Festival, where he received a Maestro Award. In addition to performing, Patton teaches at Allegro Charter School of Music.  

Today, Patton has two jazz albums to his name. His debut album, Full Authority, which he started as a CofC student, laid the foundation for his career. His second project, It All Works Out, followed soon after graduation, and he’s currently working on a third with no plans of slowing down. 

“If you plan to have a fruitful career, you need to know what it is you want and be fluid when it comes to obstacles,” Patton advises anyone thinking about making a career of their passion. “No road is smooth, but if you are persistent in your trials, you can pursue anything you want.”  

His journey serves as a testament that passion and profession don’t have to be separate and that sometimes the most fulfilling path is the one you didn’t expect to take.