John Beasley
From pianist to composer/recording artist and producer 

There are a few words that aptly describe keyboard virtuoso and composer John Beasley and the music he lovingly conceives and plays.
One would be Passion. Another would be intelligence. Still another would be individualism. Indeed, John’s music moves passionately from whisper to roar, always reaching into the heart of the moment; his approach to composing and playing is intelligently and exquisitely realized, always acknowledging the past while relentlessly exploring the present and future of not only jazz, but blues, classical, and world musics as well. In short, John’s music has evolved and fused somehow into a musical individualism that is comprised of not one thing but many - a ubiquitous style that speaks to all of us on many different levels. Jazz icons Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard and pop composers/performers Walter Becker & Donald Fagen of Steely Dan , and film composer Thomas Newman to name only a few, were quick to enlist John’s talents in their respective aggregations.

John’s music is always personal, artistic, and highly individualistic. It avoids cliche` and seems to continually expand as his improvised lines unfold, sprinkled liberally with harmonies that are fresh and spontaneous. His musical voice reveals much care and creative integrity. “I try to put an ‘organic’ feel and soul to my music”, he says, ”using blues and rhythms from all aver the world...in other words, make new music that evolves from firm roots and tradition.”

Cellist Pablo Casals, arguably one of the greatest musicians of all time, once said, “the greatest respect an artist can pay to music is to give it life.” Miles Davis personified that wonderful statement and spent his own lifetime passing such timeless wisdom along to those who were fortunate enough to have played with him. John Beasley is a member of that gifted inner circle, always probing, growing, and learning as his artistic path unfolds.
And how fortunate we listeners are to be along for the ride...


All of these influences are evident in his recordings with Windham Hill's Jazz label: Cauldron and A Change of Heart. 

Courtesy from
John Beasley

http://www.beasleymusic.com