John Colianni

John Colianni (born in Paterson, New Jersey) is an American jazz pianist, soloist, band leader, recording artist and accompanist. He recorded John Colianni, his debut album, Blues-O-Matic and Live at the Maybeck for Concord Records. Other records followed, the latest being Johnny Chops, recorded with his quintet. At nineteen, John toured the world as Lionel Hampton's pianist. Was Mel Tormé's pianist for six years. Has recorded with Mel Tormé, Lionel Hampton, Cleo Laine, Emily Remler and many others. Currently serves as pianist for the Les Paul quartet. Original name: John Colaianni, dropped one 'a' in last name. Son of author/activist, James F. Colaianni.

John grew up in the Washington, D.C. metro area and first heard Jazz on swing-era LP re-issues (Ellington, Goodman, Jimmie Lunceford, Count Basie, Armstrong, etc.) in his parents' home. A performance by Teddy Wilson in Washington attended by John when he was about 12 years old also left a strong impression, as did a Duke Ellington performance.

In 2006, looking for an outlet for his high velocity piano improvisations, John formed the John Colianni Quintet. In July 2007, the group recorded its first CD, "Johnny Chops" (Patuxent Records), which was released in May 2008.

Les Paul offered the piano spot in his group to John in August 2003. Les had not used a pianist in his combo since the 1950s and, in looking for suitable candidates, sought the advice of guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli, who recommended John. In Les Paul's recent autobiography, "Les Paul: In His Own Words," Les writes an appreciative description of John's playing style and musical contributions to the re-vamped Les Paul Quartet. John is also seen and heard on the PBS documentary, "Les Paul: Chasing Sound."

Showing keyboard aptitude, a suitable teacher for John was sought by his parents. Local musicians recommended Les Karr, who, in addition to teaching, was well known as an outstanding pianist. Weekly lessons began in the eighth grade, when John was 14. Les Karr himself studied under Teddy Wilson at Juilliard in New York. Les was also the first cousin of pianist Dick Hyman. For John's lessons, Les emphasized technique and introduced studies of the Mathe' System, a method that advances digital dexterity and maximizes the capacity for speedy, high-velocity piano playing. John, noted for fleet "chops," often cites the important role these exercises play.

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