Piano players are the maestros of the ivory keys, wielding their instrument with finesse, precision, and boundless creativity. They hold the power to evoke a vast range of emotions, from the melancholic strains of a minor chord to the triumphant crescendo of a grand finale. The piano’s versatility allows these musicians to traverse genres, from classical to jazz, rock to pop, and beyond.
What sets piano players apart is their ability to command an entire orchestra of sounds from a single instrument. Their nimble fingers dance across the keys, producing melodies, harmonies, and rhythms that captivate audiences. Through a delicate touch or a thunderous strike, they breathe life into compositions, infusing them with their unique interpretation and artistry.
Piano players are the virtuosos who bridge musical traditions, from the timeless sonatas of Beethoven to the syncopated rhythms of jazz legends like Thelonious Monk. They possess a deep understanding of music theory, allowing them to compose, arrange, and interpret music with a level of sophistication that is unmatched.
These artists often become cultural icons, their performances leaving indelible marks on the memories of those who are fortunate enough to witness them. From the classical mastery of Chopin to the experimental genius of John Cage, piano players shape the course of music history, leaving a legacy that resonates across generations.
1. Elton John
Elton John's musical journey is one of greatness and impact. With over 300 million records sold, he's made an indelible mark on the industry. He's a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, a five-time Grammy Award winner, and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his music services.
Elton John's skill and talent have earned him acclaim from peers and fans alike. His technical genius on the piano, combined with his charismatic stage presence, keep generations of musicians inspired.
Don't miss out on experiencing Elton John's enchantment. Feel his music captivate your soul and transport you to a world of imagination. Move over Mozart, Elton John's sassy melodies will have you wishing you could play the piano just as effortlessly as he can pick up another bad habit.
2. Billy Joel
William Martin Joel, more famously known as Billy Joel, is a legendary pianist and singer-songwriter. His raw talent, soulful melodies, and profound lyrics have won him fans worldwide for decades. He plays piano and keyboards and is not only a master of the instrument but also an incredible vocalist.
Billy has collaborated with various renowned musicians throughout his career. His hits, like "Piano Man," "Uptown Girl," and "Just the Way You Are," continue to resonate with fans of all ages. His deep emotional connection and relatable storytelling make him an icon in the music industry.
If you haven't experienced Billy Joel's mesmerizing talent on the piano yet, don't miss out! Dive into his discography and prepare to be swept away by his melodic virtuosity. Find out why millions consider Billy Joel one of the best piano players of all time – even greater than Jerry Lee Lewis, who plays like a man possessed…by the spirit of rock 'n' roll, we hope!
3. Jerry Lee Lewis
Legendary pianist Jerry Lee Lewis stands at number 3 on the list of greatest piano players ever. Let's explore his remarkable career!
Jerry Lee Lewis:
| Career Highlights |
|---|
| Rock 'n' Roll Innovator |
| Chart-Topping Hits |
| Electrifying Stage Presence |
Jerry Lee Lewis is renowned for his unique style and energetic performances. He revolutionized rock 'n' roll, making him a music history icon.
Jerry Lee Lewis has an incredible catalog of chart-topping songs. His timeless classics like "Great Balls of Fire" and "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" still resonate with listeners.
Jerry Lee Lewis is an electrifying stage presence. His wild antics and piano playing mesmerize crowds. This makes him one of the most captivating live performers ever.
Jerry Lee Lewis has had a colorful life filled with highs and lows. Despite controversies, he kept creating impactful music.
Jerry Lee Lewis's undeniable talent and passion for music continues to inspire all generations. His incredible skills on the piano and unforgettable stage persona ensure his spot as one of the greatest piano players in history.
4. Liberace
Liberace, the iconic pianist, entranced spectators with his dazzling performances and flashy stage presence. His over-the-top costumes and masterful piano playing made him famous in the music industry.
To shed light on Liberace's skills and successes, let's look at a table featuring some of the essential aspects that characterized his career:
| Date of Birth | May 16, 1919 |
| Nationality | American |
| Genres | Classical, Pop, Jazz |
| Main Instruments | Piano, Candelabra |
| Awards | 2 Emmy Awards, Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame |
| Notable Performances | The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (25 times) Madison Square Garden concerts (1974) Las Vegas residencies at the Riviera Hotel and Casino |
-Pro tip- Liberace's flamboyant style went beyond piano playing; incorporating bright outfits and jewelry can add pizzazz to your show!
Liberace was well-known for his allure and showmanship. Also, he was an excellent pianist who skillfully combined classical music with aspects of pop and jazz. His special knack for connecting with crowds surpassed boundaries and left a permanent impression on the music world.
Stevie Wonder may be sightless, yet his piano abilities gleam so brilliantly, you'll need sunglasses to listen.
5. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder – a musical genius! An intriguing peek into his life and talent.
Let's take a closer look:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth | May 13, 1950 |
| Place | Saginaw, Michigan |
| Notable | "Songs in the Key of Life" |
| Awards | 25 Grammy Awards |
| Blindness | Born blind |
Though Stevie Wonder was born blind, he has mastered not only the piano but also many other instruments. His music defies genres and has moved people around the world.
Ray Charles: the blind man who could see what most pianists couldn't!
6. Ray Charles
Ray Charles, a legendary piano player, was known for his soulful and groundbreaking style. His jazz, blues, and gospel infusion made him a major influence on music. He was also an outstanding singer, composer, and songwriter. His unique fusion of genres broke down barriers, inspiring future artists.
To mimic Ray's piano sound, add bluesy licks and express emotion with dynamic playing. Step aside, Thin Domino, Fats Domino is here to dominate the keys!
7. Fats Domino
Fats Domino is renowned for his piano prowess, and holds a special place among the greatest pianists of all time. Let's take a look at the remarkable talents and accomplishments of this musical legend.
Birth Name: Antoine Dominique Domino Jr.
Birth Date: February 26, 1928
Nationality: American
Genre: Rhythm and blues, rock and roll, boogie-woogie
Awards: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1986), Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (1987)
Fats Domino confronted numerous difficulties during racial segregation, yet still managed to break down barriers with his touching songs that resonated around the world.
Pro Tip: To get the full experience of Fats Domino's genius, listen to his chart-topping hits like "Blueberry Hill" and "Ain't That a Shame." Little Richard might be known as the "Father of Rock and Roll," but when it comes to playing the piano, he's more of an "Interior Decorator"!
8. Little Richard
Little Richard: Known for his crazy piano playing and larger-than-life stage persona. His mark on the music industry is undeniable. Let's explore his amazing career!
His attributes:
- Birth Name: Richard Wayne Penniman
- DOB: December 5, 1932
- Place of Birth: Macon, Georgia, U.S.
- Genre: Rock and Roll
- Instrument: Piano
- Notable Hits: "Tutti Frutti," "Long Tall Sally," "Good Golly Miss Molly"
Little Richard was unique – his voice and style set him apart from others. His fusion of rhythm and blues and gospel created a new sound. He faced many challenges as an African-American artist in a segregated U.S. His determination to succeed is an inspiration.
One story reflects his passion for perfection. During a recording session for one of his hits, he stopped and exclaimed something was missing. He then removed his false eyelashes and threw them into the control room to add the extra spark!
9. Nat King Cole
Behold the legend that is Nat King Cole! He's at number 9 on the list of best piano players of all time. Let's explore his amazing musical journey.
Birth Name: Nathaniel Adams Coles.
Birth Date: March 17, 1919.
Birth Place: Montgomery, Alabama.
Nationality: American.
Musical Style: Jazz, Pop.
Nat King Cole was not just a great pianist, he was also an incredible singer with his velvety voice enchanting people everywhere. His remarkable success as an African-American artist during a time of racial tension makes his legacy even more special.
Pro Tip: To really appreciate Nat King Cole, check out his discography with songs like "Unforgettable" and "L-O-V-E." Allow his piano playing to inspire your own music!
10. Oscar Peterson
Oscar Peterson is renowned as the tenth greatest piano player of all time. His extraordinary musical gifts and contributions to jazz have cemented his place in history. To grasp Peterson's importance, let's consider some key elements of his career:
- Early Life and Skills: Oscar Peterson was born on August 15, 1925 in Montreal, Canada. He was a gifted pianist from an early age, mastering styles such as stride and boogie-woogie. His masterful technique and improvisations were unrivaled.
- Jazz Trio: In the 1950s, he formed the Oscar Peterson Trio with Ray Brown on bass and Barney Kessel on guitar. Later, Herb Ellis replaced Kessel. This trio was highly influential, known for their tight playing and virtuosity.
- Collaborators: Throughout his career, Peterson worked with Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie. These collaborations displayed his skill in adapting to varied musical contexts while maintaining his unique sound.
- Legacy: Peterson's mark on jazz is immense. He combined technical brilliance with emotional depth, enthralling listeners everywhere. He put out 200+ albums, earning numerous honors for his musical work.
To appreciate Oscar Peterson's artistry, here are a few tips:
- Listen to His Recordings: Listen to albums such as "Night Train" or "We Get Requests" to experience Peterson's skill. Appreciate his timing, harmonic sophistication, and improvisations.
- Study His Technique: Study Peterson's technique to get better as a pianist. Notice his phrasing, dynamic control, and chord voicings.
- Attend Live Performances: Even though Peterson passed away in 2007, his music is still celebrated by others. Hear live performances from musicians influenced by Peterson's style.
- Embrace Improvisation: Peterson was a master of improvisation, pushing the boundaries of jazz piano. Learn his solos and use elements in your own playing.
By exploring Oscar Peterson's life and music, we can fully admire his remarkable accomplishments. He will remain one of the greatest pianists ever and continue to influence generations to come.
11. Chick Corea
Chick Corea is renowned for his outstanding piano skills, securing 11th place on our list of the best piano players of all time. Let's learn more about this talented musician.
Birth Name: Armando Anthony Corea.
Birth Date: June 12, 1941.
Nationality: American.
Main Genres: Jazz, fusion, classical.
Main Instruments: Piano, keyboards.
Chick Corea stands out with his distinct improvisational style and flexibility in various genres. His ability to combine jazz, fusion, and classical music makes him special. Prepare to be spellbound by his amazing musical journey.
Don't miss out on Chick Corea's enchanting tunes and remarkable performances. Indulge in his discography and witness the artistry he creates on the keys. Discover his wide range of compositions and let your soul be enraptured by the beauty of his music.
Herbie Hancock may have the fingers of a pianist, but his style is so smooth it could mend a broken heart…or two.
12. Herbie Hancock
Herbie Hancock's musical genius has earned him a place among the world's best! His distinctive style and innovative approach have kept audiences captivated for decades.
Aside from his Grammy Awards, Hancock has also composed remarkable film scores. Notable films with his musical expertise include 'Round Midnight' (1986), 'Bird' (1990), and 'The Grand Budapest Hotel' (2014).
His career extends beyond awards. He collaborated with legendary artists such as Miles Davis and Wayne Shorter, experimenting with genres like jazz-funk fusion and electronic music.
If you're looking to level-up your piano playing skills, here's what you can learn from Herbie Hancock:
- Embrace innovation – push boundaries and explore new horizons.
- Study other musicians – take inspiration from different artists and learn from their unique approaches to the piano.
- Master improvisation – practice creating melodies on the spot.
- Collaborate with fellow musicians – broaden your musical perspective with collaborative settings.
By learning from Herbie Hancock and incorporating his strategies into your practice routine, you too can become a captivating pianist! Vladimir Horowitz's finesse even impressed the ghosts of composers past.
13. Vladimir Horowitz
Vladimir Horowitz was a legendary pianist, renowned for his skill and virtuosity. He wowed audiences with his technique and expressiveness, cementing his revered status among the greatest piano players ever.
To explore Horowitz's contribution to music, let's take a look at some of his achievements and milestones:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth | October 1, 1903 |
| Nationality | Russian-American |
| Genre | Classical |
| Notable Works | Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3 |
| Liszt's Transcendental Études | |
| Awards | Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award |
| Kennedy Center Honor |
Horowitz's performances were known for their emotional intensity and technical brilliance. His ability to bring out the nuances of each piece was breathtaking.
One remarkable event in his career was a self-imposed break from performing in the 1950s, lasting over a decade. During this time, he devoted himself to perfecting his technique and expanding his repertoire.
Another noteworthy anecdote is Horowitz's escape from Russia during the Russian Revolution. Taking only a few items, including his beloved piano scores, he went on a journey that eventually led him to international fame.
Vladimir Horowitz left an unforgettable mark on classical music. His legacy as one of the greatest piano players ever continues to motivate musicians, ensuring his gift to the world will be cherished for years.
14. Art Tatum
Art Tatum was an extraordinary pianist, renowned for his skillful technique and improvisational prowess. His exceptional talent mesmerized audiences, leaving a lasting mark on jazz music.
Tatum was born in Toledo, Ohio on October 13th, 1909. His style consisted of jazz, swing and boogie woogie, with influences from Fats Waller and Earl Hines. Notable works include "Tiger Rag" and "Tea for Two".
In addition to his technical expertise and virtuosity, Tatum had a deep knowledge of harmonies and complex chord progressions. He blended melodic patterns with intricate passages, truly setting himself apart from other pianists of the time.
To truly understand Tatum's genius, one must listen to recordings of his performances. His improvisations were astonishing, showcasing his ability to create intricate melodies in the moment. By studying his recordings, aspiring pianists can gain new insights into improvisation and discover fresh possibilities in their own playing.
For those aiming to add Tatum's style to their repertoire, here are some tips:
- Analyze his harmonic understanding. Pay close attention to how he navigates complex chords with ease. By studying and examining his harmonic choices, you can build a stronger knowledge of harmony and enhance your improvisational abilities.
- Practice finger dexterity exercises. Tatum possessed unmatched finger dexterity and speed. Incorporating exercises that develop finger independence and agility will help improve your technical skills on the piano.
- Embrace experimentation. Don't be afraid to stray from your comfort zone and try new musical ideas. Like Tatum, have fun with improvisation and try incorporating unexpected harmonies or rhythms into your playing.
By studying Tatum's technique and implementing his unique take on improvisation, aspiring pianists can broaden their musical horizons. As an iconic jazz pianist, Art Tatum continues to inspire future generations.
15. Dave Brubeck
Dave Brubeck, a world-renowned pianist and composer, is considered one of the greatest piano players in history. His unique style and innovative approach to jazz have mesmerized audiences around the globe.
His birth name is David Warren Brubeck, he was born on December 6th, 1920 and is American by nationality. His main genre is jazz and his instrument is the piano.
However, Brubeck's music extended beyond traditional jazz boundaries; it included classical and world music elements. He also experimented with different time signatures, including odd meters such as 5/4 and 9/8, which contributed to the freshness of his compositions.
Moreover, Brubeck's iconic album "Time Out," released in 1959, showcased his mastery of unusual time signatures. It is known for its hit "Take Five" which is still one of the most popular jazz pieces till this day.
It is worth noting that Dave Brubeck has been honored with numerous awards, including the National Medal of Arts in 1994 presented to him by former President Bill Clinton.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
