[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)
Senor BluesHorace Silver Quintet
One of Horace Silver’s signature funky tunes, this is a minor blues with a strong Latin flavor in 12/8.
The original quintet version was recorded in 1956.
With its exotic mood, it’s a piece that many Japanese listeners are likely to love.
The front line solos by Hank Mobley and Donald Byrd—both emblematic figures of the bop era—are also must-hears.
Hi-FlyJaki Byard
This piece was written by Randy Weston in the 1950s.
It may be more widely known through the version Art Blakey played with his band than through Weston’s own.
It’s said that he wrote it based on his experience of being very tall.
With a slightly playful rhythm, the theme makes it a fun and enjoyable tune to listen to.
Sharon’s WaltzJoe Zawinul
Famous as a member of Weather Report, he is a jazz-fusion piano and synthesizer player born in Vienna, Austria.
While his poppy, funky playing often gets the spotlight, this waltz seems to reveal his delicate and orthodox side as a jazz pianist.
It is included on the 1966 album “Money In The Pocket.”
[2026] Jazz Piano Masterpieces: From Standards to Recent Hits (81–90)
Delaunay’s DilemmaJohn Lewis
John Lewis, known as the de facto leader of The Modern Jazz Quartet, was influenced by bebop yet developed a refined and distinctive musical style within it.
You can hear the band version of this piece on the famed album “DJANGO,” but the piano trio version is also chic and delightful.
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?
