Biography
Born on 29 May 1957 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, Lynne Arriale began studying and performing piano in childhood before earning a master’s degree in classical music from the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music. Although she initially concentrated on the classical repertoire, jazz soon captured her interest, particularly the work of Keith Jarrett and Herbie Hancock. National and international touring helped establish her reputation, and her standing among fellow pianists was confirmed by her selection for the 1991 100 Golden Fingers tour of Japan alongside Hank Jones, Tommy Flanagan, Cedar Walton, Kenny Barron and Monty Alexander. Further recognition came in 1993 when she captured first place in the International Great American Jazz Piano Competition.
During the 1990s she maintained a busy international touring schedule, released several highly acclaimed albums and devoted considerable energy to teaching through master classes, clinics and a faculty appointment at the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Workshops. Her playing is distinguished by its fusion of jazz feeling with exceptional technical command, preserving the emotional core of the former while never permitting virtuosity to diminish the depth or intensity of her improvisational imagination. These qualities are evident throughout her recorded work, much of which features drummer Steve Davis as a regular partner.
During the 1990s she maintained a busy international touring schedule, released several highly acclaimed albums and devoted considerable energy to teaching through master classes, clinics and a faculty appointment at the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Workshops. Her playing is distinguished by its fusion of jazz feeling with exceptional technical command, preserving the emotional core of the former while never permitting virtuosity to diminish the depth or intensity of her improvisational imagination. These qualities are evident throughout her recorded work, much of which features drummer Steve Davis as a regular partner.