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The John Pizzarelli Trio

The John Pizzarelli Trio.  Photo by WireImage: Michael Caulfield.
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The John Pizzarelli Trio, led by Patterson, New Jersey, native John Pizzarelli, is setting the standard for stylish modern jazz. Pizzarelli has been playing guitar since age 6, following in the tradition of his father, jazz guitar legend Bucky Pizzarelli. Hanging out with his dad, the young Pizzarelli was exposed to all the great jazz music of the era and at 20 years old, he began his professional career alongside his famous father.

He later ventured out on his own and in 1992, formed the John Pizzarelli Trio. The Trio was chosen to open tour dates for Frank Sinatra and appeared at the opening of the Bellagio in Las Vegas. The group's performances began to earn rave reviews, and the young John Pizzarelli was often compared to the jazz greats who inspired him. In 1999, fans voted John Pizzarelli "Jazz Vocalist of the Year" in a Swing Journal reader's poll.

Hailed by the critics as one of the most accomplished interpreters of the Great American Songbook, he is known for his brilliant guitar work and smooth vocals. In a career that has produced 18 records and gained international recognition, he has brought classic standards and late-night ballads to a new generation ready to swing and swoon. From Carnegie Hall to "Melrose Place," Pizzarelli has gained a wide following from his numerous stage, screen and television appearances. Inspired by greats like Nat "King" Cole and Frank Sinatra and using the songs of Sammy Cahn, George and Ira Gershwin and Jimmy Van Heusen as touchstones, Pizzarelli adds the cool jazz flavor of his guitar to the eloquent ideas of these masters.

Pianist Ray Kennedy has worked with jazz legends including Nat Adderly, James Moody and Sonny Sitt. He has also been featured on more than 20 CD's with numerous artists and has recorded music for the soundtracks of three motion pictures. He has performed on The Tonight Show, The Today Show, Late Night with Conan O'Brien and The Late Show with David Letterman. Kennedy has appeared in concerts and jazz festivals throughout the world.

Bassist Martin Pizzarelli has appeared with the John Pizzarelli Trio in major jazz festivals around the world, and on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Conan O'Brien and The Late Show with David Letterman. Through growing up with his father, Bucky Pizzarelli, he was influenced by Frank Sinatra, Benny Goodman and Milt Hinton. He has toured extensively with the John Pizzarelli Trio throughout the U.S. and Europe.

John Pizzarelli wears Brioni suits.