The Best Piano Players Ever

When it comes to piano greats, there are too many to choose from. Today, numerous talented artists continue the proud tradition of fantastic piano work. However, who are some of the individuals that revolutionized piano music for the better? This list is by no means exhaustive, but here are a few musicians who made their mark in the medium.

Jazz has had a profound influence on the sounds we hear today. From jazz emerged rock, soul, and the overall attitude towards music that characterizes our main music genres. One of the pioneers of piano jazz was Earl ‘Fatha’ Hines. His work paved the way for experimentation in piano jazz, making him the rightful inspiration for many contemporary pianists alive today. He led a colorful life, including close associations with Capone’s mafia and a career that spanned brothels and speakeasies, but his impact is immeasurable.

Another star of piano music was the genius Art Tatum. “Genius” is an overused term these days, so one might be forgiven for thinking it could be an exaggeration, but Tatum truly was a genius. He possessed a photographic memory that he primarily used for music and baseball facts. Moreover, he had natural perfect pitch and a passion for improvisation that propelled him to a level most people could only dream of reaching. From his humble beginnings as a visually impaired boy in a dreary town in Ohio, he grew into one of the greatest, if not the greatest, jazz pianists ever.

Beethoven is a well-known figure when it comes to influencing piano music, and it would be wrong to dismiss classical music as something of the past, even if it’s not your cup of tea. Beethoven’s innovation is something we haven’t moved on from; he still embodies everything that modern, inspiring music represents. Powerful, controlled, emotional, and above all, authentic.

Bach is another individual who shaped the music of his era. As a precursor to Beethoven, he was involved in organ work and church music, but he also ushered in a new era of passion for the piano and its applications in composition.

There are certainly too many talents to discuss, but these figures provide a glimpse into the transformative changes that have shaped piano music, and music as a whole, throughout history.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME