Kelli Scarr is an American singer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist based in New York's Hudson Valley. She is also the founder of Vera Jean Music, a pioneering record label dedicated to championing the talents of women artists over the age of 40.

On June 13, 2025, she unveils Greater Mysteries, an immersive album and performance experience that draws on timeless mythic journeys to the underworld. Born during an artist residency in Crete and recorded in Iceland, it serves as an invitation into the initiatory cycle of transformation—where endings become beginnings, and something new is ready to emerge. The spirit of improvisation animates a richly textured soundscape, featuring an all-star ensemble including Producer D. James Goodwin on bass (Norah Jones, Goose, The National), Sam Kassirer on piano (Josh Ritter), and Jeff Lipstein on drums (Mercury Rev), plus the spark of innovative guests including vocalist Odeya Nini, woodwind artist Stuart Bogie, trombonist Dave Nelson, cellist Clarice Jensen, and guitarists Scott Metzger and Will Graefe. Transcendent piano and airy woodwinds intertwine with otherworldly voices and the earthy pulse of the rhythm section to create a sonic journey steeped in myth and mystery. 

Raised in Northern California, Scarr’s musical journey began in church, eventually leading her to Berklee College of Music before settling in New York City. Over the years, she has woven her way through an eclectic range of projects, from fronting the bands Moonraker and Salt & Samovar to a significant collaboration writing, recording, and touring with Moby. Her artistry extends into film scoring, where her emotive and organic approach—favoring live musicians and improvisation—has set her apart. She earned an Emmy nomination for her score to the HBO documentary In A Dream (2008) and has composed music for dozens of films, TV shows, and commercials. Notable projects include the documentaries Advanced Style and Far Western, and the forthcoming After All (2025), for which she composed the score and contributed six original songs.

As a solo artist, Scarr has released three albums—Piece (2010), Dangling Teeth (2012), and No Rush (2021)—establishing herself as a singular voice in atmospheric, deeply emotive songwriting. Her forthcoming fourth album, Greater Mysteries, marks a new creative chapter, offering music as an initiatory experience. The project will unfold through intimate preview concerts in the Hudson Valley, culminating in immersive cave performances this fall.

Photo by Monik Geisel.