JIM BEARD
Genres: Classic Fusion, Post-Fusion Contemporary, Progressive Big Band • United States

James Arthur Beard (August 26, 1960 – March 2, 2024) was an American jazz pianist and keyboardist, composer, arranger and producer who worked with Wayne Shorter, John McLaughlin, Pat Metheny, John Scofield, Mike Stern, Dennis Chambers and Bob Berg, among others. Beard was born in Philadelphia and developed a keen interest in music from an early age. He first wanted to play tuba (at age 5), then drums and saxophone. His parents decided that he should start with the piano and move to the other instruments later. He began with piano at age seven and his classical teacher for almost twelve years was Mary Anne Rietz. As a teenager, he studied arranging with Don Sebesky, jazz piano with Roland Hanna, and studied privately with George Shearing for several years. He credits as strong influences during his teens: Oscar Peterson, George Shearing, Erroll Garner and The Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra as well read more...