Bill Mays Concerts

Experience Bill Mays

Bill Mays (1938-2024) was a highly respected American jazz pianist, composer, and arranger renowned for his lyrical improvisations and extensive work in both solo and collaborative settings. Beginning his career in the 1960s, Mays gained prominence accompanying singers like Peggy King, Mel Tormé, and especially Frank Sinatra for over two decades – notably as a key pianist on Sinatra’s final recordings.

His playing style blended influences from George Shearing and Nat King Cole, characterized by elegant harmonic sophistication and a warm, inviting tone. Beyond accompaniment, Mays led numerous trios and released over two dozen albums as a leader, showcasing original compositions and inventive arrangements of standards. He was particularly celebrated for his “Impressions” series of solo piano albums.

Mays’ compositions have been recorded by artists including Tony Bennett and Diana Krall. A prolific arranger, he created charts for countless vocalists and big bands. He received multiple Grammy nominations throughout his career and was a beloved figure within the jazz community, known for his musicianship and generosity. His discography remains a testament to a lifetime dedicated to jazz piano artistry.