Ralph Sharon

Ralph Sharon launched his professional career through an appearance alongside Ted Heath in 1946, after which he performed in Frank Weir’s orchestra and subsequently formed his own sextet. Relocating to the United States in 1953, he began by serving as accompanist for Chris Connor. By 1957 he had taken on the dual position of musical director and pianist for Tony Bennett, and he obtained American citizenship the following year. Although the association with Bennett concluded in 1965, the pair resumed working together in 1979 and maintained their collaboration over the ensuing period. Sharon continued to direct assorted ensembles and issued numerous recordings under his own name. He passed away in March 2015 at his Boulder, Colorado residence at the age of 91.