David Kikoski

David Kikoski is an American jazz pianist and keyboardist, born on September 29, 1961, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He began learning piano from his father and played in bars as a teenager. Kikoski studied at the Berklee College of Music in the early 1980s before moving to New York City in 1985. He has collaborated with numerous notable jazz musicians, including Roy Haynes, Randy Brecker, Bob Berg, and Billy Hart. Kikoski won a Grammy Award in 2011 with the Mingus Big Band for "Live at the Jazz Standard" and received a Grammy nomination with Roy Haynes for "Birds of a Feather." His discography includes albums like "Phoenix Rising," "Kayemode," and "Sure Thing," showcasing his versatility and skill in jazz.

Kikoski's career spans decades, with a wide range of collaborations and solo projects. He has been a resident of Jersey City, New Jersey, and continues to contribute to the jazz scene with his dynamic performances and recordings. His work often features complex arrangements and improvisations, reflecting his deep understanding of jazz traditions and his ability to innovate within them.