Accomplished and versatile, Gaea Schell- as drummer Tootie Heath has said, "plays the heck out of the piano with them small hands". Known among her peers for swinging 8th notes, subtle phrasing and contemplative writing, this SF Bay area based pianist, composer, flutist (and vocalist) is originally from Alberta, Canada, where she grew up playing music from an early age. Pursuit of a classical harp degree led to checking out Oscar Peterson and Bill Evans records in the school library, inspiring a move East and subsequent graduation with distinction from the jazz program at acclaimed McGill University. A Canada Council for the Arts grant took Gaea to New York City where she studied with internationally known pianist/composer Richie Beirach. Other awards include grants through Chamber Music America, South Arts Jazz Road, Intermusic SF, and VCFA Composer's Fellowship. She has shared the stage with Nancy King, John Stowell, Tootie Heath, Clare Fischer, Bobbie Watson, Richie Cole, etc.