Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

October 10, 1960

Genre

:

Film

 

 

Vocal

 

John Beasley is a renowned jazz pianist, composer, and arranger who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on December 26, 1960, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Beasley grew up in a musical family. His father was a saxophonist, and his mother was a singer, which exposed him to music at an early age. Beasley started playing the piano when he was three years old and showed a natural talent for the instrument. Beasley's family moved to Texas when he was a child, and he continued to develop his musical skills. He attended the University of North Texas, where he studied jazz piano and composition. During his time at the university, Beasley played with the One O'Clock Lab Band, the school's premier jazz ensemble. He also had the opportunity to study with renowned jazz pianist and composer, Thad Jones. After graduating from the University of North Texas, Beasley moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music. He quickly established himself as a talented pianist and composer and began working with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Beasley has worked with artists such as Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, Dianne Reeves, and Steely Dan, among others. One of Beasley's most significant achievements was his work as the musical director for the International Jazz Day concerts. In 2012, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated April 30th as International Jazz Day, and Beasley was chosen to be the musical director for the inaugural concert. The concert was held in New York City and featured performances by Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Esperanza Spalding, among others. Beasley continued to serve as the musical director for the International Jazz Day concerts for several years, and the concerts have become a significant event in the world of jazz. Beasley has also released several albums as a solo artist and bandleader. His debut album, "Cauldron," was released in 1991 and featured his original compositions. He has since released several other albums, including "Letter to Herbie," which was a tribute to Herbie Hancock, and "Positootly!," which was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2011. In addition to his work as a pianist and composer, Beasley is also an accomplished arranger. He has arranged music for films such as "The Color Purple" and "Finding Nemo" and has worked on television shows such as "American Idol" and "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." Beasley's arrangements are known for their creativity and innovation, and he has been praised for his ability to bring new life to classic songs. Beasley has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 2018, he was awarded the Jazz Education Network's LeJENd of Jazz Education Award, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to jazz education. He has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best Jazz Instrumental Album for "Positootly!" and Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella for his arrangement of "Asas Fechadas" by Ivan Lins. In addition to his work as a musician, Beasley is also a dedicated educator. He has taught at the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of the Arts. Beasley is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of musicians and has been praised for his ability to inspire and motivate his students.

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