Fred Hersch

Fred Hersch (born October 21, 1955 in Cincinnati, Ohio) is a contemporary American jazz pianist who has become a consistent and highly demanded performer on the international jazz scene.

Related Topics:
October 21 - 1955 - Cincinnati, Ohio - American - Jazz - Pianist

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Hersch began playing piano at a very young age and graduated from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. He moved to New York City in the late 1970s where he soon found a place playing with notable artists such as Stan Getz, Joe Henderson, Lee Konitz, and Charlie Haden.

Related Topics:
New England Conservatory of Music - Boston - New York City - 1970s - Stan Getz - Joe Henderson - Lee Konitz - Charlie Haden

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Hersch soon began cutting his own records and became a noted composer. Like a number of jazz pianists who have come of age over the past 20 years, he is heavily influenced by the work of Bill Evans. Although Hersch has played in a number of different instrumental arrangements, his preference and ability for performing solo are well-known.

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In 1986 he was diagnosed with HIV. Since then, Hersch has campaigned and performed for several AIDS-related charities and causes.

Related Topics:
1986 - HIV - AIDS

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He is also a music educator, having taught at the New School University, Manhattan School of Music, Western Michigan University, and his alma mater, the New England Conservatory.

Related Topics:
New School University - Manhattan School of Music - Western Michigan University

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