The piano continues to mesmerize audiences worldwide through the hands of today’s most talented musicians. From concert halls to streaming platforms, piano players of the 21st century shape our musical landscape with their unique styles and approaches.
Their technical skill combines with personal expression to move audiences across cultural boundaries. This guide highlights notable keyboard artists who have made significant contributions to piano music in recent years.
Famous Piano Players of The 21st Century
The 21st century has given rise to remarkable pianists who combine technical mastery with unique artistic voices, reshaping how we experience piano music today.
Here is the list of the notable albums, awards, and date of birth of these pianists:
1. Lang Lang
Lang Lang is a well-known Chinese classical pianist celebrated for his dynamic and expressive performances. Born in Shenyang, China, he began playing piano at age three and quickly rose to fame, winning the International Tchaikovsky Competition for Young Musicians at 13.
He has performed with top orchestras worldwide and is known for making classical music accessible to a broader audience.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 14, 1982 |
| Notable Albums | Lang Lang: Dragon Songs, Lang Lang: Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No. 2, Lang Lang: Chopin Piano Concertos |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy nominations, numerous classical music awards |
2. Yiruma
Yiruma is a South Korean pianist and composer known for his emotional and soothing piano music. His compositions often spark a sense of calm and serenity, connecting deeply with listeners worldwide.
His albums have been widely acclaimed, and he continues to inspire fans with his heartfelt performances. Yiruma’s music transcends cultural boundaries, appealing to audiences globally.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 15, 1978 |
| Notable Albums | First Love, From the Yellow Room, P.N.O.N.I. |
| Awards | NA |
3. Chick Corea
Chick Corea was a legendary American jazz pianist and composer celebrated for his versatility and creative style. Throughout his career, Corea combined various genres, from jazz to classical, and was a key figure in the development of jazz fusion.
Corea’s legacy continues to impact contemporary jazz musicians, and his compositions remain timeless classics in the genre.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 12, 1941 |
| Notable Albums | Now He Sings, Now He Sobs, Light As a Feather, Romantic Warrior |
| Awards | 23 Grammy Awards |
4. Jacob Collier
Jacob Collier is a British multi-instrumentalist and pianist celebrated for his unique harmonies and genre-crossing compositions. He gained international recognition with his viral YouTube videos featuring multi-instrumental arrangements of popular songs.
Collier’s live performances are highly acclaimed for their creative use of technology and audience participation.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 2, 1994 |
| Notable Albums | In My Room (2016), Djesse Vol. 1 (2018), Djesse Vol. 2 (2019), Djesse Vol. 3 (2020), Djesse Vol. 4 (2024) |
| Awards | Six Grammy Awards (with 15 nominations), including Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella for “Bridge over Troubled Water” from Djesse Vol. 4; Gold Derby Music Awards nominations for contributions to Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres |
5. Ludovico Einaudi
Ludovico Einaudi is an Italian pianist and composer celebrated for his minimalist style, which give a sense of simplicity and beauty. His music is featured in numerous films and television shows, making him a household name.
Einaudi’s compositions are characterized by their emotional depth and soothing melodies, appealing to a wide audience beyond traditional classical music fans.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 23, 1955 |
| Notable Albums | Nuvole Bianche, Nightbook, In a Time Lapse |
| Awards | Multiple awards for film scores and classical music |
6. Martha Argerich
Martha Argerich is an Argentine classical pianist widely regarded as one of the most acclaimed musicians of the 21st century. Known for her technical brilliance and emotional depth, she has performed with leading orchestras worldwide.
She is particularly celebrated for her interpretations of Chopin and Liszt, showing her mastery of classical collections.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 5, 1941 |
| Notable Albums | Chopin Piano Concertos, Rachmaninov Piano Concertos |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, numerous classical music awards |
7. Keith Jarrett
Keith Jarrett is a jazz pianist famous for his solo improvisations, which have charmed audiences worldwide. His performances are known for their spontaneity and emotional intensity, often creating a deep connection with listeners.
Jarrett’s music covers multiple genres, from jazz to classical, and he has released numerous critically acclaimed albums.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 8, 1945 |
| Notable Albums | The Köln Concert, Facing You, My Song |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, numerous jazz awards |
8. Bruce Hornsby
Bruce Hornsby is a pianist known for blending jazz, rock, and bluegrass styles in his music. He has had a successful career both as a solo artist and as a member of the Grateful Dead.
Hornsby’s versatility as a musician has led to collaborations with a wide range of artists, from jazz legends to pop stars. His music often features complex piano work and thoughtful lyrics, appealing to a diverse audience.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 23, 1954 |
| Notable Albums | The Way It Is, Scenes from the Southside, Spirit Trail |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, numerous music awards |
9. Herbie Hancock
Herbie Hancock is an impactful American jazz pianist and composer celebrated for his creative style and contributions to jazz fusion. Over the course of his career, Hancock has combined various genres, from jazz to funk and electronic music.
His legacy extends beyond his music and continues to inspire new generations of musicians with his creativity and adaptability.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 12, 1940 |
| Notable Albums | Maiden Voyage, Head Hunters, River: The Joni Letters |
| Awards | 14 Grammy Awards, numerous jazz awards |
10. Tori Amos
Tori Amos is an American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist known for her emotionally charged music. Her compositions often discuss themes of personal struggle and strength, connecting deeply with listeners.
She has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and continues to inspire fans with her powerful performances and touching lyrics.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 22, 1963 |
| Notable Albums | Little Earthquakes, Under the Pink, Boys for Pele |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy nominations, numerous music awards |
11. Hiromi Uehara
Known professionally as Hiromi, she is a Japanese jazz composer and pianist celebrated for her virtuosic technique and energetic live performances.
She has collaborated with renowned musicians like Chick Corea and Stanley Clarke, and her albums have received numerous awards, including a Grammy Award with The Stanley Clarke Band.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 26, 1979 |
| Notable Albums | Another Mind (2003), Brain (2004), Spiral (2006), Voice (2011), Move (2012), Alive (2014), Spark (2016), Spectrum (2019) |
| Awards | Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Jazz Album, Rising Star: Piano award in DownBeat’s Critics Poll, Best Jazz Act at the Boston Music Awards, Horizon Award at the 2004 Surround Music Awards |
12. Richard Clayderman
Richard Clayderman is a French pianist well-known for his romantic and contemporary music. Known as the Prince of Romance, he has sold millions of records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling pianists of all time.
Clayderman’s music often features beautiful melodies and arrangements, appealing to a broad audience. With a career covering decades, Clayderman continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 28, 1953 |
| Notable Albums | Ballade pour Adeline (1977), A Comme Amour (1978), Träumerei (1979) |
| Awards | NA |
13. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist known for his pop hits, such as “Piano Man” and “Uptown Girl.” With a career spanning over five decades, Joel has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards.
Joel is known for his storytelling ability through music, often conveying life experiences and social issues. His live performances are highly acclaimed, and he has been introduced into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 9, 1949 |
| Notable Albums | Piano Man (1973), The Stranger (1977), 52nd Street (1978), Glass Houses (1980) |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy Awards, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame |
14. John Legend
John Legend is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist celebrated for blending R&B and soul music. Known for his smooth vocals and emotive piano playing, Legend has won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards.
He is also recognized for his philanthropic work and advocacy for social justice. His music often shows themes of love and social awareness, connecting deeply with listeners worldwide.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 28, 1978 |
| Notable Albums | Get Lifted (2004), Once Again (2006), Evolver (2008), Love in the Future (2013) |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy Awards |
15. Vladimir Ashkenazy
Vladimir Ashkenazy is a famous Russian-born classical pianist and conductor. Born in Moscow, he began his career as a pianist, winning the International Chopin Piano Competition in 1955.
He has also had a distinguished career as a conductor, leading orchestras such as the Royal Philharmonic and the Berlin Philharmonic. Ashkenazy’s contributions to classical music are deep, and he continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 6, 1937 |
| Notable Albums | Rachmaninoff Piano Concertos (1973), Chopin Piano Concertos (1984) |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, numerous classical music awards |
16. Michel Petrucciani
Michel Petrucciani was a French jazz pianist known for his expertise despite being born with a rare genetic disorder that affected his physical stature. He began playing piano at age four and quickly gained recognition for his technical mastery and emotional depth.
His music often featured complex harmonies and improvisations, showing his unique style. Despite his untimely death, Petrucciani’s legacy continues to impact contemporary jazz.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 28, 1962 |
| Notable Albums | 100 Hearts (1984), Note n’ Notes (1984), Pianism (1985) |
| Awards | NA |
17. George Winston
George Winston is an American pianist famous for his solo piano albums, particularly those in the new-age music genre. His compositions often evoke a sense of calm and peace, making him a beloved figure in contemporary instrumental music.
Winston’s music is characterized by its simplicity and emotional depth, appealing to a wide audience.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 11, 1949 |
| Notable Albums | December (1982), Autumn (1980), Winter into Spring (1982) |
| Awards | NA |
18. Art Tatum
Despite being visually impaired from childhood, Art Tatum was a legendary American jazz pianist who became one of the greatest technical virtuosos in jazz.
He is known for his extraordinary improvisational skills and creative use of reharmonization and bitonality. He began performing professionally at a young age and gained fame in the 1930s and ’40s for his stride-style piano playing.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 13, 1909 |
| Notable Albums | The Genius of Art Tatum (1953), The Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces, Vol. 1 (1992), Jewels in the Treasure Box: The 1953 Chicago Blue Note Jazz Club Recordings (2024), Piano Starts Here (2008) |
| Awards |
Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (1989) , Grammy Award for Best Jazz Performance by a Soloist (1974), Grammy Nomination for Best Jazz Performance by a Soloist (1977) |
19. Brad Mehldau
Brad Mehldau is well well-praised American jazz pianist known for blending classical and jazz elements in his music. He is celebrated for his soul-searching and emotionally charged performances, often incorporating complex harmonies and improvisations.
His music often shows themes of love and thoughtfulness, connecting deeply with listeners. Mehldau’s unique style has made him a respected figure in contemporary jazz.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 23, 1970 |
| Notable Albums | The Art of the Trio (1997), Largo (2002), Highway Rider (2010) |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy nominations |
20. Diana Krall
Diana Krall is a Canadian jazz pianist and singer known for her smooth vocals and grace of piano playing. She has released numerous bestselling albums, often featuring standards from the Great American Songbook.
Krall’s music is characterized by its grace and emotional depth, appealing to a wide audience.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 16, 1964 |
| Notable Albums | Stepping Out (1993), When I Look in Your Eyes (1999), The Look of Love (2001) |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy Awards |
21.Dmitri Shostakovich
Dmitri Shostakovich was a famous Russian composer and pianist celebrated for his 15 symphonies and numerous chamber works. He studied at the Petrograd Conservatory and gained international recognition after the premiere of his First Symphony in 1926.
Shostakovich’s music often reflected his complex relationship with the Soviet government, incorporating elements of neo-classicism and post-Romanticism.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 25, 1906 (Old Style: September 12) |
| Notable Works | Symphony No. 5, Symphony No. 7, Symphony No. 10, String Quartet No. 8 |
| Awards | Order of Lenin, Lenin Prize, Stalin Prize, numerous Soviet awards |
22. Yuja Wang
Yuja Wang is a Chinese classical pianist known for her expertise and expressive playing. Born in Beijing, she began piano lessons at age six and later studied at the Curtis Institute of Music.
Wang’s performances are marked by their technical mastery and emotional depth, making her a favorite among audiences worldwide. She has collaborated with top orchestras and has released several critically acclaimed albums.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 10, 1987 |
| Notable Albums | Sonatas & Etudes (2009), Transformation (2010), Rachmaninov (2011) |
| Awards | Grammy nominations, numerous classical music awards |
23. The Piano Guys
The Piano Guys are a popular American piano and cello duo known for blending classical and pop music. Formed in 2011, they gained fame through their YouTube videos featuring creative arrangements of popular songs.
The Piano Guys have released several bestselling albums and have performed globally, inspiring new generations of musicians with their unique blend of genres.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Formation | 2011 |
| Notable Albums | The Piano Guys (2012), The Piano Guys 2 (2013), A Family Christmas (2013) |
| Awards | NA |
24. Steinway Artist Evgeny Kissin
Evgeny Kissin is a Russian-born pianist celebrated for his incredible technique and interpretations of classical music. Born in Moscow, he began piano lessons at age six and quickly gained international recognition for his performances.
He has collaborated with leading orchestras and has released numerous acclaimed recordings. Kissin’s performances are highly regarded for their technical precision and emotional depth.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 10, 1971 |
| Notable Albums | Chopin Piano Concertos (1990), Rachmaninoff Piano Concertos (1993) |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, numerous classical music awards |
25. Lars Vogt
Lars Vogt was a German classical pianist and conductor known for his expressive performances and interpretations of classical music. Born in Düren, Germany, he began piano lessons at age six and later studied at the Hochschule für Musik in Hanover.
He was also a respected conductor, leading several orchestras throughout his career. Vogt’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 8, 1970 |
| Notable Albums | Mozart Piano Concertos (2013), Schubert Piano Sonatas (2014) |
| Awards | NA |
26. Frédéric Chopin
Frédéric Chopin was a Polish composer and pianist famous for his works written for the piano. Chopin’s music is characterized by its technical complexity and emotional depth, making him one of the most respected composers in history.
Chopin’s legacy extends beyond his compositions and his music has shaped the development of piano technique and collections.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 1, 1810 |
| Notable Works | Nocturnes, Waltzes, Preludes |
| Awards | Not applicable |
27. Joanna Newsom
Joanna Newsom is an American singer-songwriter and harpist and is also recognized for her piano playing. Born in California, she began her career in the early 2000s and is known for her unique voice and poetic lyrics.
Newsom’s music often incorporates elements of folk, chamber music, and avant-garde styles, making her a distinctive figure in contemporary music.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 18, 1982 |
| Notable Albums | The Milk-Eyed Mender (2004), Ys (2006), Have One on Me (2010) |
| Awards | NA |
28. Paul Lewis
Paul Lewis is a well-known British classical pianist celebrated for his interpretations of Beethoven and Schubert. He studied at Chetham’s School of Music and later with Alfred Brendel, who significantly impacted his career.
Lewis is known for his comprehensive performances of Beethoven’s piano sonatas and concertos. In 2010, he was the first pianist to perform all five Beethoven concertos in a single season at the BBC Proms.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 20, 1972 |
| Notable Albums | Schubert: Piano Sonata No. 19 in C minor, D. 958, Piano Sonata No. 14 in A minor (“Grande Sonate”), D. 784 (2002), Schubert: Last Sonatas D.959 & D.960 (2003), Liszt: Sonata in B minor (2004), Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas |
| Awards | Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to music, BBC Music Magazine Recording of the Month for his performance of Beethoven’s Diabelli Variations |
29. Béla Fleck
Béla Fleck is a famous American banjo player known for his unique contributions to bluegrass and jazz piano music. Born in New York, He began playing the banjo at age 15 and later combined piano as a secondary instrument.
Fleck’s creative approach to music has earned him numerous awards and recognition across different genres.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 10, 1958 |
| Notable Albums | Drive (1988), Tales from the Acoustic Planet (1995), Perpetual Motion (2001) |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy Awards |
30. Ryuichi Sakamoto
Ryuichi Sakamoto is a Japanese composer known for his creative music in classical and electronic genres. Born in Tokyo, Sakamoto began playing piano at age six and later studied at the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music.
He is celebrated for his work in film scores, particularly for The Last Emperor, and his collaborations with artists like David Bowie and Iggy Pop.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 17, 1952 |
| Notable Albums | Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence (1983), The Last Emperor (1987), Async (2017) |
| Awards | Academy Awards, Grammy Awards |
31. Earl Fatha Hines
Earl Fatha Hines was an iconic American jazz pianist and bandleader. He was known for his impactful style, which blended stride piano with swing and bebop.
His creative approach to piano playing, which emphasized individuality and improvisation, has made him a legendary figure in jazz history.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 28, 1903 |
| Notable Albums | Earl Hines Plays Fats Waller (1956), Earl Hines Plays Duke Ellington (1956) |
| Awards | NA |
32. Fazıl Say
Fazıl Say is a Turkish pianist and composer famous for his interpretation of classical and contemporary music. Born in Ankara, Turkey, Say began piano lessons at age four and later studied at the Berlin Academy of Arts.
He is celebrated for his performances of Mozart and Beethoven, as well as his own compositions, which blend classical with Turkish folk elements.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 14, 1970 |
| Notable Albums | Black Earth (2003), Paganini Jazz (2008) |
| Awards |
International Beethoven Prize for Human Rights, Peace, Freedom, Poverty Reduction and Inclusion (2016), ECHO Klassik Awards (2001, 2009, 2013),Bremer Musikfest-Preis (2008), Rheingau Musikpreis (2013) |
33. Nina Simone
Nina Simone was an American singer, pianist, and civil rights activist born Eunice Kathleen Waymon Tryon, North Carolina. She began her career as a classical pianist but shifted to jazz and popular music after facing racial barriers.
Her activism was deeply combined with her music, making her a leading voice in the Civil Rights Movement.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 21, 1933 |
| Notable Albums | Little Girl Blue (1959), Nina Simone at Town Hall (1959), Nina Simone at Newport (1960), I Put a Spell on You (1965), |
| Awards | Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2018), Grammy Hall of Fame Award for “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” (2000), National Medal of Arts posthumously awarded (2017) |
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, today’s piano world offers an amazing mix of talent from many backgrounds and styles. Each artist brings their touch to the keys, making the instrument speak in ways both new and familiar.
The piano remains a bridge between musical eras, cultures, and feelings – with these artists serving as guides across that bridge.
Whether you prefer the bold performance of Lang Lang, the calm notes of Yiruma, or the genre-crossing work of Herbie Hancock, there’s a pianist whose music will touch you.
