The Piano Guys is a classical music ensemble that has gained worldwide recognition for their unique blend of classical music and pop culture. The group was founded in 2010 by pianist Jon Schmidt and cellist Steven Sharp Nelson, who were both based in Utah. The duo began creating music videos that featured their own arrangements of classical pieces, as well as covers of popular songs. The Piano Guys quickly gained a following on YouTube, where their videos went viral and garnered millions of views. Their first video, a mashup of "Love Story" by Taylor Swift and "Viva la Vida" by Coldplay, was released in 2010 and has since been viewed over 100 million times. The group's popularity continued to grow, and they eventually signed a record deal with Sony Masterworks. The Piano Guys consists of four main members: Jon Schmidt (piano), Steven Sharp Nelson (cello), Al van der Beek (percussion), and Paul Anderson (videographer). Schmidt and Nelson are the primary musicians, while van der Beek handles the group's production and Anderson creates their music videos. The group's performances are known for their elaborate staging and use of visual effects. They often perform in scenic locations, such as the Great Wall of China or the Swiss Alps, and incorporate elements of dance and acrobatics into their shows. The Piano Guys have also collaborated with other musicians, including Lindsey Stirling and Peter Hollens. One of the group's most notable performances was their rendition of "What Makes You Beautiful" by One Direction, which they performed on the USS Midway aircraft carrier in San Diego. The video has been viewed over 100 million times on YouTube and helped to solidify The Piano Guys' reputation as a unique and innovative musical act. In addition to their viral videos and live performances, The Piano Guys have also released several albums. Their debut album, "The Piano Guys," was released in 2012 and reached number one on the Billboard New Age chart. The group has since released several more albums, including "Wonders" and "Uncharted." The Piano Guys have received numerous awards and accolades for their music and performances. In 2014, they were named the Top Classical Artist of the Year by Billboard. They have also been nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best Classical Crossover Album for their album "Wonders." Despite their success, The Piano Guys remain committed to their mission of bringing classical music to a wider audience. They often perform in schools and other educational settings, and have created a foundation to support music education programs. In conclusion, The Piano Guys are a classical music ensemble that has gained worldwide recognition for their unique blend of classical music and pop culture. Founded in 2010 by Jon Schmidt and Steven Sharp Nelson, the group has become known for their viral videos, elaborate performances, and innovative approach to classical music. With several albums and numerous awards to their name, The Piano Guys continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.

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