Benny Green (pianist)
Hard bop pianist and former Jazz Messenger.
Benny Green is an American hard bop jazz pianist who gained prominence as a member of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. His playing style has drawn comparisons to Bud Powell and Oscar Peterson, both of whom he cites as influences.
Quick Facts
- Born
- 4 April 1963
- Birthplace
- New York City, New York, U.S.
- Genre
- Jazz
- Occupation
- Musician
- Instrument
- Piano
- Label
- Criss Cross
- Blue Note
- Telarc
- Sunnyside
- Associated acts
- Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers
- Spouse
- Sophy Anzueta Green (married 2023-present)
Facts from the source article.
Biography
Green was born in New York City and grew up in Berkeley, California, where he began studying classical piano at age seven. His father, a jazz tenor saxophone player, sparked his early interest in jazz. Discovered by Faye Carroll, Green worked in a quintet led by Eddie Henderson while still in his teens. He attended Berkeley High School and played in its jazz ensemble, later securing a weekly trio gig at Yoshi's that marked his entry into professional jazz.
After high school, he spent time in San Francisco before returning to New York, where his career advanced. Green joined Betty Carter's band in April 1983 and has led his own trio since 1991. He has recorded for Blue Note, Telarc, and Criss Cross. He frequently teaches workshops across the United States, including at Jazz Camp West and Centrum/Jazz Port Townsend, and served as guest artist for the Fine Art Center jazz program for the 2024-2025 school year.
He currently resides in the United States and tours globally with his trio. His studio album Then and Now was released in 2018 by Sunnyside Records.
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