To most, playing the piano serves as an introduction to the world of music. However, there are those whose lives and fame revolve around making great music on the keys. That’s the main reason why the piano has become an enduring piece of musical history. While many masters have come and gone, the instrument never fails to produce new talents that have forged success in the modern world.

New composers and performers continue to shine as they cultivate followers both young and old. In this article, we look at a few iconic pianists of our time who will surely carve a lasting legacy and define the future of music for the years to come.

1. Jacob Collier

Having won two Grammys for Best Arrangement, this Millennial musician started out making musical content on YouTube with his renditions of “Pure Imagination” from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory as well as Stevie Wonder’s “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout  a Thing.” Having enjoyed continued successes collaborating with the likes of Dr. Dre, SZA, and Pentatonix, Collier has made a name for himself as one of the most prolific artists of his generation. While a multi-instrumentalist, Collier is more well-known for his solo piano work. One can only listen to Piano Ballads to understand the depth of his artistry and why deserves a spot on this list.

2. Larry Goldings

When it comes to producing musical talents, the state of Massachusetts doesn’t fail to deliver considering that it’s a place rich in cultural history and music training centers like South Shore Piano School. We can think of acts like New Kids on the Block and James Taylor as the best New England has brought to the world of entertainment.

When it comes to pianists, the name Larry Goldings instantly comes to mind. Performing at times in his comedic alter-ego Hans Groiner, Goldings is adept in playing the organ but is better known for his skills as a jazz pianist whose style mimics that of legends like Larry Young and Dave McKenna whom he met during his early years. Forming an organ trio composed of fellow musicians Peter Bernstein and Bill Stewart, Goldings has been nominated time and again for a Grammy for his outstanding musical contributions. 

3. Roberto Fonseca

Cuba has long been a hotbed for cultural innovations, mixing Spanish, African, and indigenous influences to create great products such as the Rumba and the Danzón. In recent years, Cuban artists are bringing these to the mainstream with their take on the Afro-Cuban genre. One standout is Roberto Fonseca.

An alumnus of Instituto Superior de Arte, Fonseca started performing at major musical festivals when he was 15. His biggest break came after recording En El Comienzo which won him an award for Best Jazz Album. This was followed by Yo which was nominated for a Grammy in 2013. He is actively performing in Havana’s most well-known nightclubs and hotels such as the Meliá Cohiba. 

4. Hiromi Uehara

Not to be outdone, the Far East has also contributed its roster of accomplished pianists. Coming from Japan, Hiromi Uehara has gained worldwide recognition as a jazz pianist, earning her celebrity status for her skills as a virtuoso and her ability to cross genres, from jazz to classical and progressive rock.

Her experience on the keys speaks volumes, having performed alongside the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and received formal musical training at the Berkeley College of Music. Apart from her musical prowess, Uehara is also known for giving high-energy performances in places fortunate enough to be on her tour list. Perhaps her biggest accomplishment was her performance during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics which cemented her place as one of the world’s greatest living piano players.

Endnote

Many more people deserve to be on this list but it’s better if you’re able to discover new pianists as you go along. Consider this as an introduction to a list that will keep on growing as the years go by.

Feature Photo by Jamille Queiroz on Unsplash