15 Best Pianists Alive Today That Are Amazing
We all know that some of the most amazing musicians of all time were piano players. But what about modern day pianists? Wh are some of the best pianists alive today, making music we enjoy immensely? Well, in this article, I’m going to share with you my top picks of the best pianists working today!
15 Best Pianists Alive Today (TLDR)
15. Ben Folds
14. Martha Argerich
13. Lang Lang
12. Joey Alexander
11. Sara Bareilles
10. Herbie Hancock
9. Alicia Keys
8. Jamie Cullum
7. Yuja Wang
6. Igor Levit
5. Brad Mehldau
4. Billy Joel
3. Lady Gaga
2. John Legend
1. Elton John
Today’s list of best pianists features a diverse mix of talent across various genres. From the classical world, Martha Argerich, Lang Lang, Yuja Wang, and Igor Levit are renowned for their virtuosic performances and depth of interpretation.
On the jazz side, we have Herbie Hancock, Joey Alexander, Brad Mehladu, and Jamie Cullum, all of whom are celebrated for their improvisational abilities and unique styles.
As for the pop and rock genres, we have legendary figures such as Elton John, Billy Joey, and Ben Folds, along with contemporary stars like John Legend, Lady Gaga, and Sara Bareilles.
Alicia Keys bridges the gap between pop and R&B with her soulful piano-driven songs. Each of these pianists has made significant contributions to their respective genres, showcasing the versatility and expressive power of the piano.
15. Ben Folds
Ben Folds is more than someone who wrote his own score for a Charlie Brown special; he is a talented pianist. His piano playing is extraordinary, and he has become a true master of the instrument. Folds’ piano playing is characterized by complexity, precision, and emotion. He has a unique ability to blend classical and contemporary music styles and has created a signature sound that is instantly recognizable.
Folds’ piano playing is characterized by its technical precision and virtuosity. He has an incredible ability to play complex and intricate piano pieces easily. Folds’ technical knowledge is matched only by his creativity and originality. He constantly experiments with new sounds and techniques; his music is always fresh and exciting.
One of the most impressive aspects of Folds’ piano playing is his ability to capture the essence of a song and bring it to life through his playing. His music is filled with passion, energy, and emotion; his piano playing is often the centerpiece of his compositions. Folds is a master of dynamics, and he knows how to use volume and intensity to create powerful emotional moments in his music.
Favorite song: “Zac and Sara” by Ben Folds, is a fantastic song that never ceases to amaze me. The way Folds plays the piano is simply breathtaking and captivating. I love how he brings out the emotions in the song through his piano playing, making it more than just another pop song.
Folds’ talent on the piano is truly remarkable, and “Zac and Sara” showcase it perfectly. It’s no wonder why this song is my favorite from him. The piano playing alone makes my heart beat every time I hear it.
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14. Martha Argerich
Martha Argerich is widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of all time and for good reason. Her piano playing is exceptional, showcasing extraordinary skill, technical mastery, and emotional depth. She has an innate ability to bring out the nuances and subtleties of every piece she plays, infusing her performances with a sense of passion and intensity that is truly breathtaking.
Argerich’s technique is also something to behold. She has an incredible command of the keyboard, effortlessly navigating even the most complex and challenging pieces with ease. Her playing is marked by astonishing speed, precision, and accuracy, and she can produce a range of tones and colors that is truly inspiring.
Favorite song: When it comes to Martha Argerich’s music, “Romeo and Juliet, Op. 64” is one of my favorite songs from her. Her piano playing is simply breathtaking. The way she effortlessly moves her fingers across the keys, creating a beautiful and emotional melody, is truly mesmerizing. It’s as if she’s telling a story through her music.
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13. Lang Lang
Lang Lang is undoubtedly one of the most talented and captivating pianists of our time, captivating audiences across the globe with his stunning performances. His technical prowess is evident in all of his performances, whether he is playing a classical masterpiece or a contemporary piece. His piano playing is a true delight to experience.
When he sits down at the piano, he becomes completely immersed in the music, and his passion and energy are palpable. He has a unique ability to create a powerful and unforgettable experience for all who listen. Another key element of Lang Lang’s piano playing is his incredible sense of musicality.
He has a natural instinct for phrasing and interpretation and can bring out the subtleties and nuances of each piece he plays. His performances are always rich with musical expression and depth, and his ability to communicate the essence of the music is truly remarkable.
Favorite song: The way Lang Lang plays the piano in his cover of “When You Wish Upon a Star” is truly remarkable. The notes he brings to life with his skillful fingers are like a delicate dance. The song’s melody is already beautiful, but Lang Lang’s interpretation adds an extra layer of emotion and depth that I can’t help but be moved by. His playing is so expressive and powerful, yet incredibly gentle and graceful.
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12. Joey Alexander
Joey Alexander is a great pianist whose talent and passion for music are evident in every note that he plays. His ability to effortlessly blend genres and styles sets him apart as one of the greatest musicians. One of the most impressive things about Joey’s piano playing is his technical proficiency.
His ability to tackle the piano while creating an emotional experience is a challenging thing to do. He also has an incredible sense of musicality and a deep understanding of the expressive power of music. When he plays, he doesn’t just hit the right notes – he infuses each piece with his own unique style, creating a refreshing listening experience.
Favorite song: “City Lights” by Joey Alexander, is an incredible song. The way he plays the piano on this track is just mesmerizing. He infuses so much emotion and soul into every single note, making it impossible not to get lost in the music. The way he effortlessly transitions between different tempos and moods is truly impressive.
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11. Sara Bareilles
Sara Bareilles is a phenomenal pianist who has captivated audiences with her exceptional playing abilities. She has a unique style that blends classical and pop music. Bareilles’s ability to express herself through her music is truly moving and sparks emotion within the listening experience.
Her piano skill is incredible because she can ignite emotions regardless of playing a ballad or an upbeat song. Lastly, Bareilles’s technical abilities make her a great pianist. It is evident that she has mastered the piano because she can create complex melodies and harmonies that are nonetheless beautiful and captivating.
Favorite song: “City” by Sara Bareilles, is undoubtedly one of her best songs. What sets this song apart is the mesmerizing piano playing that accompanies her soulful voice. The piano melody perfectly captures the feeling of longing for something more, something better. For me, it is such an emotional song that I can’t help but get lost in her gentle piano playing in this song.
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10. Herbie Hancock
When it comes to piano playing, Herbie Hancock is undoubtedly one of the greatest pianists of our time. One of the things that makes Hancock such a great pianist is his ability to use the entire keyboard to create a wide range of sounds and textures. He is equally comfortable playing delicate, intricate melodies as he is playing bold, powerful chords.
He also has an incredible sense of rhythm and can effortlessly weave complex rhythms into his playing. Another reason why Hancock is so highly regarded as a pianist is his ability to improvise. He is a master of jazz improvisation and can take a simple melody and turn it into a complex and beautiful piece of music. His improvisations are always tasteful and never feel forced or contrived.
Favorite song: “Riot” by Herbie Hancock, is an incredible piece of music that showcases his masterful piano playing. From the song’s start, you’re immediately drawn in by the frantic, almost chaotic energy Hancock brings to the piano. The way he effortlessly moves his fingers across the keys, creating a flurry of notes that somehow manage to synchronize perfectly, is truly mesmerizing.
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9. Alicia Keys
Aside from holding and breaking records, Alicia Keys is one of the best pianists around. Her piano playing is absolutely captivating, and she has the ability to captivate audiences with her skills. She can incorporate jazz, blues, and R&B and hip hop elements into her piano playing, creating a unique and all her own sound.
Her music is not only beautiful, but it also has a raw, emotional quality that is hard to match. She often produces intricate melodies and harmonies that are truly breathtaking. However, she never sacrifices emotion for technicality. Her playing is always grounded in soulful expression, which is what makes it so powerful.
Favorite song: “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys, is my absolute favorite song from her. The way she plays the piano is just beautiful! The piano is the perfect instrument for this song, showcasing Alicia’s incredible talent and the emotion behind her lyrics. This song is so powerful and emotional that I can’t help but get emotional each time I listen to it.
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8. Jamie Cullum
Jamie Cullum is an incredible pianist, and his piano playing is something to behold. He has a unique, energetic, and soulful style, and he always manages to captivate his audience with his performances. Regardless of what genre of music he is performing, he always manages to infuse his unique sound into the music.
This is especially evident in his live performances, where he often improvises and takes the music in unexpected directions. As for his technical approach, he does a great job approaching complex yet delicate numbers with such ease. As a result, he never lets his technical abilities overshadow his passion for the music itself.
Favorite song: “Don’t Give Up On Me” by Jamie Cullum, is a compelling and emotional song that always manages to move me. What really sets it apart, though, is Jamie’s incredible piano playing. He is a true virtuoso on the keys, effortlessly weaving together intricate melodies and harmonies that never fail to impress. The way he plays with such passion and intensity is genuinely beautiful, and it’s a joy to hear him bring this song to life.
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7. Yuja Wang
Yuja Wang is undeniably one of the most talented pianists of our time. Her skill, passion, and dedication to music have earned her a well-deserved reputation as one of the greatest living pianists. Yuja Wang is known never to be afraid to explore new musical territory and push the boundaries of what is possible on the piano.
This fearlessness and creativity are heavily evident in her music. Yuja Wang is also a pianist renowned for her impeccable technique and ability to bring out the soul of her music. Her performances are full of passion, energy, and emotion that captivate audiences worldwide. Her interpretations of classical works are fresh, innovative, and full of surprises.
Favorite song: “You Come Here Often?” by Yuja Wang, is a great song. The way the piano notes dance around each other captures the excitement and anticipation of meeting someone new. It’s a beautiful, complex piece that never fails to move anyone who listens to it.
6. Igor Levit
When he plays, it’s as if Igor Levit is pouring his entire soul into the music, and you can feel the intensity of his emotions through every note. His performances are not just about hitting the right notes or following the sheet music; they are about conveying a sense of emotion and feeling that resonates with his listeners. Levit has a way of infusing his music with a sense of drama and intensity.
He draws out every emotion from the music, creating a truly immersive experience for his listeners. He also can connect with his audience and create a shared experience. When you listen to Levit play, it’s as if he’s inviting you into his world, sharing his emotions and experiences with you through the music.
Favorite song: “Peace Piece” by Igor Levit, is my all-time favorite song because it can soothe my soul and transport me to a place of calm and serenity. The song’s simplicity is its strength, as it allows me to focus on the beauty of each note and truly appreciate the musician’s artistry. The gentle piano melody is very ethereal, and it feels like a warm embrace that envelops me in a blanket of peace.
5. Brad Mehldau
Brad Mehldau is widely regarded as one of his generation’s most talented and innovative jazz pianists. His virtuosic playing style is characterized by remarkable technical proficiency, an unparalleled sense of melody and harmony, and an unyielding commitment to experimentation and improvisation.
He has a unique approach to jazz piano that is always a refreshing experience for any listener. Also, his emotional range matches his technical proficiency, with performances ranging from tender and introspective to explosive and intense. His music is both challenging and accessible, making him a true master of the piano.
Favorite song: I absolutely love “Blackbird” by Brad Mehldau. The way he interprets this classic Beatles tune is simply breathtaking. The gentle, flowing melody of the piano is so soothing to the ears, and the way he plays with the tempo and dynamics adds so much depth and emotion to the song. Plus, the improvisational sections are just incredible – it’s like he’s telling a story with his music.
4. Billy Joel
Billy Joel has his own unique style that is both technically proficient and emotionally resonant. His playing is a perfect blend of technical precision and musical expression, with each note played with a sense of purpose and passion. When it comes to piano playing, Billy Joel is simply in a class of his own.
He has an undeniable talent for crafting unforgettable melodies that stay with you long after the music has stopped. Billy Joel’s piano playing is technically impressive and deeply personal. He has a way of making his music feel like a conversation like he is speaking directly to you through his piano.
Favorite song: “We Didn’t Start the Fire” by Billy Joel is one of my all-time favorite songs for many reasons, but what stands out to me is his incredible piano playing. From the driving rhythm of the opening chords to the delicate, haunting melody of the final notes, Billy Joel’s piano playing is a tour de force of musical expression, and it’s no wonder this song remains a classic.
3. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga is incredible for her raw and emotional singing performances, but her piano playing makes her even better. Her piano skills are nothing short of amazing, and she has repeatedly proven that she is a force to be reckoned with. She has a knack for infusing classical pieces with modern pop beats, creating a unique and unforgettable sound.
Her piano playing has a flair for the dramatic, and her performances are nothing short of breathtaking. Her ability to command the stage and engage the audience is a testament to her innate talent and passion for music. Overall, Lady Gaga’s piano playing is an actual work of art.
Favorite song: “Million Reasons” by Lady Gaga, is a masterpiece that never fails to tug at my heartstrings. The song’s emotional depth is unmatched, and the piano playing is the cherry on top. Lady Gaga’s skillful fingers glide over the keys, producing a haunting melody long after the song ends.
Her voice is raw and honest, conveying her pain and vulnerability. It’s as if she’s baring her soul to the world through her music. “Million Reasons” is a testament to Lady Gaga’s talent as a pianist and songwriter, and it’s no wonder it’s my favorite song from her.
2. John Legend
John Legend is a musical genius, and his piano playing is nothing short of extraordinary. His unique style is instantly recognizable, and his playing perfectly blends technical prowess and emotional depth. His soulful melodies and intricate harmonies reveal a deep understanding of the piano and its capabilities.
Legend approaches each piece with a unique perspective and infuses it with his style, creating a sound that is uniquely his own. His ability to effortlessly combine soulful melodies with complex harmonies is a testament to his exceptional musicianship.
His performances are a true expression of his passion for music and his dedication to his craft. When it comes to the art of piano playing, John Legend is a true master.
Favorite song: “All of Me” by John Legend, is one of my all-time favorite songs. Not only does the song have a beautiful melody and soulful lyrics, but it’s also the perfect showcase for John Legend’s incredible piano playing. The way he uses the piano to convey the emotion and depth of the song is absolutely beautiful to the ears and soul.
1. Elton John
Elton John, hands down, is the most outstanding pianist alive of all time! This man has got some great skills when it comes to tickling those ivories. From his early days in the 70s to his recent performances, Elton’s piano playing has always been a standout feature of his concerts. His playing is smooth and effortless; it’s like he was born to do it. And let’s remember his showmanship.
Elton knows how to put on a show, and his piano playing is always at the center. But it’s not just his technical skills that make Elton the greatest pianist alive. It’s also his creativity and passion. This is why Elton John Is the best of the best pianists alive today.
Favorite song: There’s something about Elton John’s “Crocodile Rock” that gets me every time. I’m unsure if it’s the catchy tune or the upbeat rhythm, but it’s mostly his piano playing. Elton John is a master of the piano, and “Crocodile Rock” shows off his skills. The way he plays those fast-paced, intricate notes is just incredible.
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This article was written by Amanda and edited by Michael.
