Meet the Musicians Behind the Magic

California Keys was born from a simple observation: Central California deserved world-class interactive entertainment without having to import it from Los Angeles or route through national booking networks.

Co-founded by Karey Nickel and Dave Coldren, full-time professional musicians and entertainers based in California, California Keys brings together a carefully curated network of talented entertainers who share a commitment to excellence and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences.

We're not weekend warriors or hobbyists. We're career musicians who have honed our craft on cruise ships, in piano bars around the world, and through hundreds of performances each year. When you book California Keys, you're getting professionals who live and breathe live entertainment.

Unforgettable night, so fun!

J. Sanders

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The Players

Dave Coldren

Dave Coldren is a fun and exciting singing piano player who lives in the SF Bay Area. He has been a full-time musician since 2005 and has been playing Dueling Piano shows since 2020.

Among the dueling piano clubs he has played are Johnny Foley’s in San Francisco, Faith and Spirits in San Carlos, Moofish in Ventura, and Harvey’s in Stateline, Nevada.

From The Rolling Stones to Chappell Roan, Queen to Lady Gaga, Country, Rock, Hip-Hop, Soul, Boybands, Girlbands, Dave’s repertoire is huge and ever expanding.

Karey Nickel

Karey Nickel's performances today, which seamlessly blend piano skills, powerful vocals, and fantastic stage presence, and consist of amazing renditions of pop, rock, Broadway, jazz, and country tunes from many decades are renowned for vibrant and dynamic energy. But beyond the powerful music renditions, Karey has the ability to create genuine connections with his audiences, making each performance an unforgettable and special experience.

From recent cruise ship contracts to residencies in piano bar rooms around the world to the cozy corners of local bars and wineries, Karey's music has found its way into the hearts of people from all walks of life. In the Dueling Pianos world, Karey has performed shows in San Francisco clubs and up and down the Pacific Coast.

A lively crowd gathered around a grand piano as two entertainers engage in a spirited dueling pianos performance at a cozy Central Valley bar.
A lively crowd gathered around a grand piano as two entertainers engage in a spirited dueling pianos performance at a cozy Central Valley bar.

Moments

Snapshots from our unforgettable dueling piano shows across California's Central Valley.

Karey Nickel and Dave Coldren sharing a laugh mid-performance, their hands flying over the piano keys under warm stage lights.
Karey Nickel and Dave Coldren sharing a laugh mid-performance, their hands flying over the piano keys under warm stage lights.
Guests at a wedding reception clapping and singing along as the piano bar entertainers create a joyful atmosphere.
Guests at a wedding reception clapping and singing along as the piano bar entertainers create a joyful atmosphere.
A close-up of two microphones and piano keys ready for an interactive, high-energy show in a vibrant venue.
A close-up of two microphones and piano keys ready for an interactive, high-energy show in a vibrant venue.

Weddings

Creating unforgettable moments with lively piano duels.

A joyful bride and groom laughing as pianists play an energetic duet at their reception.
A joyful bride and groom laughing as pianists play an energetic duet at their reception.
Corporate Events

Engaging your team with spirited dueling piano performances that spark connection and fun, perfect for Central Valley businesses.

Two pianists entertaining a crowd of professionals at a corporate holiday party with vibrant lighting.
Two pianists entertaining a crowd of professionals at a corporate holiday party with vibrant lighting.
Private Parties

Bringing energy and interactive music to your intimate gatherings, making every celebration in the Central Valley memorable.