[2026] Jazz piano masterpieces: from standards to recent favorites
Jazz piano, where the piano takes center stage, has enjoyed enduring popularity in Japan for many years.
We often hear standard numbers performed in legendary recordings by classic jazz pianists, as well as their own original masterpieces, and many of us grow familiar with them naturally—even without consciously thinking of them as jazz.
This article shines a spotlight on jazz piano, presenting a curated selection that includes not only standards but also outstanding original compositions.
While topics like this tend to highlight the strength of classic tunes, this piece also features popular tracks by pianists and piano trios who debuted in the 2000s and beyond, making it enjoyable for both beginners and dedicated jazz fans.
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[2026] Jazz piano masterpieces: From standards to recent hits (71–80)
DPWKenny Barron Quintet
Kenny Barron is renowned as a powerhouse sideman, but this track is an up-tempo hard bop tune he composed in 2013 depicting Ditmas Park West in his Brooklyn neighborhood.
Despite being a seasoned veteran, he continues to work energetically, including releasing his first album on the Blue Note label in 2018.
The Pot’s OnKenny Drew
Kenny Drew, a hard-bop pianist born in 1928.
This track is included on his album “Undercurrent,” released by Blue Note Records in 1961.
It was his last album for the label recorded before he relocated to Copenhagen, Denmark.
He later gained popularity in Europe and Japan.
When You Wish Upon A StarKenny Drew
When You Wish Upon a Star from Pinocchio is one of the most famous songs from Disney films.
While preserving the original’s romantic charm—also known by the Japanese title “Hoshi ni Negai wo”—it’s arranged in modern jazz.
Supported by gently accompanying drums and bass, the piano dances lightly across the keys—doesn’t it evoke the sparkle of the stars?
[2026] Jazz Piano Masterpieces: From Standards to Recent Hits (81–90)
Club Français Blues (Instrumental)MARY LOU WILLIAMS
A classic by Mary Lou Williams.
It’s a stylish number where a charming, honky-tonk-like piano tone weaves in and out freely.
Rather than an urban image, it evokes a pleasantly rustic, Southern-tinged mood.
He hails from the state of Atlanta, and the piano jazz subtly hints at those roots.
Night TrainOscar Peterson Trio
Originally a track released by Jimmy Forrest in 1951.
It has been recorded by many artists, including James Brown.
This version by Canadian jazz pianist Oscar Peterson was released in 1963.
Makin’ WhoopeeEarl Hines
This standard number, often performed as a vocal tune as well, is Earl Hines’s lively, swinging rendition of “Makin’ Whoopee.” He is considered one of the pioneers who laid the foundation of modern jazz piano, and is said to have influenced Bud Powell and Herbie Hancock.
The song has a simple chord progression, and its lyrics humorously depict marriage and what follows.
It’s also frequently performed at a slower tempo.
Blue in GreenEliane Elias
Eliane, who hails from Brazil, was active in the 1980s jazz group Steps Ahead alongside Peter Erskine and Mike Mainieri.
Blue in Green is famously known for Bill Evans’s masterful performance on Miles Davis’s Kind of Blue.
Eliane’s rendition expands that world with a gentle touch.
Her husky-voiced vocal numbers are also truly wonderful.