The Phil Hey Quartet was originally assembled around the year 2000 when Artists' Quarter owner (and fellow drummer) Kenny Horst suggested to Hey that the four jazz veterans perform a "one off" gig.  Needing to print the AQ's monthly calendar, Horst listed the band as the Phil Hey Quartet.  Finding that they shared a chemistry and love for the hard bop material, the PHQ dug in with monthly AQ gigs and regular rehearsals to hone their unique sound.  Performing a songbook usually driven by a horn player, the PHQ features piano (Aaron) and vibes (Hagedorn) on the lead lines with the equally expressive rhythm section of Tom Lewis (bass) and Phil Hey (drums).  Whether by virtue of the band's "assigned" name or otherwise, Hey took on the role of leader.  Phil is quick to point out, however, that "this is a real band.  Everyone in the group is a band leader in his own right and we have really come together as an ensemble."  

Now the Phil Hey Quartet has been an Artists' Quarter favorite for the past 8 years. No surprise really.  This is a no-nonsense, uncompromising band of local jazz greats regularly performing the tunes of Kenny Wheeler, Bobby Hutcherson, John Coltrane, and Wayne Shorter and others.  Over the years they have attracted a loyal following of hardcore jazz fans and students who show up on the monthly Thursday night when they perform.
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