Richie Beirach


Richard Alan Beirach is an American jazz pianist and composer.

Early life

Beirach was born in New York City. He initially studied both classical music and jazz. While still at high school, he took lessons from pianist Lennie Tristano. Beirach later entered the Berklee College of Music. After one year, he left Berklee and began attending the Manhattan School of Music. While there, he studied with Ludmilla Ulehla. In 1972, he graduated from the Manhattan School of Music with a Master's Degree in Music Theory and Composition.

Career

In 1972 Beirach began working with Stan Getz. He also worked with Chet Baker. Beirach has maintained an ongoing musical partnership with David Liebman from the late-1960s to the present in the groups Lookout Farm and Quest. In addition, Liebman and Beirach have frequently performed and recorded as a duo.
Several of Beirach's compositions – "Leaving" and "Elm", for instance – have found their way into the jazz standard repertoire.

Playing style

Beirach's style is influenced by Art Tatum, Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, Chick Corea and his earlier classical training. It is also individualistic with many touches all its own.

Discography

As leader/co-leader

As sideman

With George Adams
With John Abercrombie
With John Scofield
  • John Scofield Live
With Chet Baker
With Dave Liebman
With Jeremy Steig
With Steve Davis
With Laurie Antonioli
With Ron McClure Trio