Larry Fuller Mainstream Jazz Pianist

Written By Sonny Akbar Sembada

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Mainstream jazz pianist Larry Fuller, the Yamaha-endorsed maestro and one of the leading figures in mainstream jazz piano today.

Hailing from Toledo, Ohio, he delved into the world of music at the tender age of 11, showcasing his aptitude for jazz early on.

Larry Fuller Mainstream Jazz Pianist

By the age of 13, he found mentorship under Floyd “Candy” Johnson, a seasoned member of the Count Basie and Duke Ellington Orchestras. Fuller commenced regular appearances on jazz stages across the Midwest, particularly in Detroit and Ann Arbor.

Collaborations with Ernestine Anderson and Seattle Sojourn

Transitioning into the late 1980s to early 1990s, Fuller collaborated with vocalist Ernestine Anderson and relocated to Seattle as her pianist and musical director. Their joint efforts resulted in recordings, including the Grammy-nominated album “Now and Then.”

Drumming Duets with Jeff Hamilton and Ray Brown

In 1994, mainstream jazz pianist Fuller joined forces with renowned drummer Jeff Hamilton, notable for his collaborations with the Ray Brown Trio, Gene Harris, and Oscar Peterson. He participated in the recording and performance of several classic albums with the Jeff Hamilton Trio.

Drumming Duets with Jeff Hamilton and Ray Brown
image source: larryfuller.com

By the turn of the millennium, Fuller became a member of the Ray Brown Trio, marking him as the final pianist to collaborate with Ray Brown, a significant figure in jazz history.

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Harmonizing with John Pizzarelli and Launching the Larry Fuller Trio

From 2005 to 2013, Fuller partnered with guitarist and vocalist John Pizzarelli, embarking on tours and recording as part of the John Pizzarelli Quartet. Together, they produced notable albums such as “With a Song in My Heart” and “Double Exposure.”

Since 2013, mainstream jazz pianist Fuller has led the Larry Fuller Trio, gracing prestigious venues and international jazz festivals. His emotionally charged style, technical prowess, and diverse repertoire have garnered consistent acclaim.

Solo Ventures and Yamaha Allegiance

In 2014, Fuller released a successful self-titled album, followed by the highly anticipated “OVERJOYED” in 2019. Fuller expresses his admiration for Yamaha pianos, attributing it to their unwavering quality, power, and durability.

Legendary Jam Sessions and Global Stage Presence

Beyond his collaborations with renowned musicians, Fuller has shared the stage with jazz legends, including Harry “Sweets” Edison, Stanley Turrentine, Phil Woods, Clark Terry, and many others. His performances have graced renowned venues worldwide, from Carnegie Hall to the Hollywood Bowl, the Kennedy Center, and various major jazz festivals.

Mainstream jazz pianist Larry Fuller continues to captivate audiences with his extraordinary musical journey and mastery of jazz piano.

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