Re-arranging classics by Mozart, Chopin, Bach and beyond...
John Stetch - Pianist, Improviser, Composer and Educator
Putting his own personal stamp on each of his distinctive renditions, fearless and out-of-the-box pianist John Stetch pushes the boundaries of his jazz and classical training to incorporate melodies from all around the world and across American culture; from Mozart to Ukrainian folk music to the theme from The Love Boat. Since his late start on the piano at 19 years of age, John graduated from McGill University and has played on many continents - performing and collaborating with classical and world musicians and contemporary jazz greats such as Rufus Reid, Seamus Blake, and Mark Turner. John has released 14 albums under his own name, 6 of which were Juno-Award nominated, and won the Prix du Jazz at the Montreal Jazz Festival. Steinway Artist Stetch is currently based in Harlem, New York City, and recently played at the top jazz clubs – Mezzrow, Smoke and Smalls.
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Testimonials for Off With The Cuffs ( re-arrangements of classics by Mozart, Chopin, Bach, Shostakovich):
"Stetch has the musical gravitas to pull off what some could see as mere musical jokes; in his hands, though, these tunes have become more contemporary songs, to be taken no less seriously than the originals." - DownBeat Magazine, 4 stars
“John's vibrant and whimsical piano-playing is totally engaging - "Off With The Cuffs" highlights his witty and clever sense of improvisation, and is great fun to listen to." - Lisa Kaplan of Eighth Blackbird, a 3-time Grammy winning group
"Imaginative, rigorous, and truly personal takes on the classics!"- Joseph Lin, The Julliard String Quartet
Video: Mozart Sonata in B-flat major, No. 13 - arranged by John Stetch
Video: J.S. Bach Italian Concerto, BWV 971 - arranged by John Stetch
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Chairs are available to the first 20 people only. For those who do not get a chair, pillows will be provided for sitting on the floor. First come first sit!
About Piano on Park:
Piano on Park offers an intimate and refreshing way to experience live music. The house concert series was launched when pianist Cyrus von Hochstetter opened his doors to host regular performances by soloists, chamber ensembles and small bands of all musical styles and colors. The venue enables a direct and unhindered exchange between performers and public, resulting in a unique and impactful musical experience.