Hi everyone — I just launched my fundraiser to create a new album, the first in two decades, and I’d love for you to be part of it. Making this record involves recording original songs and some meaningful covers, with talented musicians I respect. We’re aiming to raise $15,000 to cover studio time, musicians, mixing, artwork, and more.
Your support means a lot — every contribution helps bring this project to life. If you’re able, please consider donating or sharing this with others who might enjoy being part of this musical journey. Thanks so much for helping me make this happen!
https://gofund.me/368633518
Tanner Taylor is a jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and educator with deep ties to both Iowa and Minnesota. He is recognized throughout the Midwest for his straight-ahead jazz style, technical command, and versatility as both a bandleader and sideman.
Some highlights of his career include:
Swing-era and bebop repertoire
Tanner Taylor is a jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and educator with deep ties to both Iowa and Minnesota. He is recognized throughout the Midwest for his straight-ahead jazz style, technical command, and versatility as both a bandleader and sideman.
Some highlights of his career include:
- Iowa roots: Taylor grew up in Jefferson, Iowa, where he began studying classical piano as a child. As a teenager he became a protégé of noted Iowa saxophonist and educator Jack Oatts, who helped connect him with renowned jazz pianist Garry Dial of the Manhattan School of Music for advanced study. Taylor was performing professionally by his mid-teens.
- Education and influences: His studies included work with Jack Oatts, Garry Dial, and classical teachers Chuck and Virginia Radke. He also studied composition at the University of Northern Iowa. Taylor has cited Oscar Peterson as one of his greatest musical influences.
- Minnesota career: After moving to the Twin Cities, Taylor became one of the area's busiest jazz pianists. He regularly led his own trio at clubs such as the Dakota and Artists Quarter, accompanied vocalists including Connie Evingson, and performed with many leading Minnesota jazz musicians. He also co-founded the community performance space Jazz Central Studios in Minneapolis.
- Performing with jazz greats: Throughout his career he has shared the stage with artists including Clark Terry, Slide Hampton, Lew Tabackin, Randy Brecker, Wycliffe Gordon, Barbara Morrison, and many others.
- Return to Iowa: Around 2015 he relocated back to central Iowa while continuing to perform regularly in Minnesota. Today he remains active across Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri, leading his own trio and appearing as a guest artist throughout the Midwest.
- Honors: In 2022, Taylor was inducted into the Iowa Jazz Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to jazz performance and education in the region.
Swing-era and bebop repertoire
- The Oscar Peterson tradition of piano playing
- Creative jazz arrangements of popular music, including themed concerts devoted to artists such as The Beatles and composer Vince Guaraldi
- Collaborative performances with vocalists and horn players across the Midwest.
Tanner Taylor is a jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and educator with deep ties to both Iowa and Minnesota. He is recognized throughout the Midwest for his straight-ahead jazz style, technical command, and versatility as both a bandleader and sideman.
