Description
Jonathan has been performing as a jazz pianist and vocalist in Cleveland for nearly a decade, with a background of classical training from a young age. He began studying jazz independently through his experience as a resident pianist at a restaurant during college, and went on to study formally with NYC jazz piano giant Dave Frank. Jonathan has performed with numerous ensembles at Northeast Ohio’s jazz clubs and for various private events, and he can be heard playing solo piano at restaurants such as Hyde Park Steakhouse (Beachwood) and Pier W (Lakewood).
The style that Jonathan has developed is well-suited to cocktail events—tasteful and restrained as background music, but with a creative musicality that invites guests to stop and listen. He’s often likened to Chet Baker and Harry Connick Jr. both in terms of his singing and improvisational style. He draws piano inspiration from greats including Bill Evans, Oscar Peterson, Johnny Costa, Marian McPartland, Dave Brubeck, Lennie Tristano, Nat Cole, and Hank Jones.
Jonathan’s repertoire centers on the Great American Songbook and jazz standards. He also knows a wide selection of traditional and contemporary wedding music, and can learn specific pieces on request.