Chris Simonini

Inspired by the feeling and soulfulness of jazz greats such as Jimmy Smith, Bill Evans, and Cedar Walton he decided to devote his time to the tradition of Jazz. He first sought out his formal training during his first year in college with jazz and classical piano lessons. Soon after, Chris had become immensely interested in the art of jazz organ. He began taking lessons on Hammond B3 organ and currently continues to gig on the B3 organ. Chris then went on to complete a degree in jazz studies at Rowan University in 2013. This was under the direction of teachers Denis Di Blasio, Dean Schneider, and Dr. Lydia Boguslavsky. During this time he also studied classical piano and jazz composition and arranging. At Rowan University Chris has performed as a sideman in master-classes under the direction of Ronald Kerber, Larry Mckenna, Michael Davis and many others.

Chris is a New Jersey Native and has many performance opportunities in New Jersey, Philadelphia, Delaware and New York City. He has been working as a freelance pianist/organist for the last four years. Among these opportunities included are performances at Chris's Jazz Café (Philadelphia) closing for artists such as James Carter and Pat Martino. Chris holds a long standing steady Wednesday night jazz gig at The Historic Smithville Inn (Galloway NJ). During his time there he has had guest performers such as, Eric Alexander, Joe Magnarelli, Ken Fowser, Behn Gillece, Michael Pedicin, as well as many others. Chris has had the privilege to work with some of today's well respected jazz musicians. Some of which include, Javon Jackson, Grant Stewart, Steve Giordano, Mike Boone, Justin Faulkner, Lee Smith, Vince Cherico, George Rabbi, Denis Di Blasio, Dan Monaghan and many more.

In 2010 Chris received The Bill Walters Scholarship through the New Jersey Jazz Society and was invited to perform at the annual Pee Wee Russell Stomp. Chris Simonini has also performed at the 2013 NJMEA Convention with The New Jersey Intercollegiate Jazz Band.

Currently Chris is recording his first piano trio album, which is soon to be released. Simonini's love for Jazz and The Great American Songbook is what inspires him to grow musically and personally as much as possible with every

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