Brian Charette is a renowned jazz organist and pianist who masterfully blends traditional jazz with modern electronic influences, creating a unique sound that captivates audiences. With over 20 albums to his name and collaborations with music legends, Charette’s innovative approach continues to push the boundaries of jazz while also sharing his expertise as an educator and author.
Brian Charette is a celebrated jazz organist and pianist known for his dynamic playing style that fuses traditional jazz with modern electronic elements. Born in 1972 in Meriden, Connecticut, Charette’s early exposure to music came from his mother, Catherine, a pianist, which laid the foundation for his illustrious musical career.
Charette grew up surrounded by the natural beauty of a retired dairy farm, which fostered a deep introspection, particularly following his childhood hearing challenges. These experiences contributed to shaping his quiet demeanor as he underwent medical procedures for his hearing issues. Despite his introverted nature, Charette’s passion for music flourished in his early years. He began playing the piano as a child, captivated by its classical and ragtime styles. By the age of 12, his dedication to mastering the instrument propelled him into competitive playing, guided by his teacher, George McKinstry.
Charette's musical journey took a transformative turn in high school when he joined the jazz band, leading to his deep connection with jazz. His commitment was unwavering, and by 1994, at 21, he moved to New York City, a hub for aspiring musicians, to pursue music professionally. In New York, he enriched his skills under the guidance of renowned jazz educators Kenny Werner and Charlie Banacos, which honed his craft and prepared him for a successful career.
Throughout his career, Brian Charette has become a dominant force in the jazz world:
His influential presence extends beyond performance as he is endorsed by notable brands like Hammond, IK Multimedia, and Casio.
Charette’s primary focus is the Hammond organ and piano, where he uniquely bridges the gap between the past and the future of jazz. His innovative approach to music incorporates synthesizers, samplers, and drum machines. Charette describes his style as rock-influenced, blending angular and aggressive techniques while maintaining a balanced use of space. He cites influences like Keith Emerson, Jimmy Smith, and Kraftwerk as catalysts for his experimentation and drive to continuously push the boundaries of organ music.
Brian Charette has produced a rich discography over the years. Some of the standout albums include:
In addition to his musical endeavors, Brian Charette is a dedicated educator, sharing his expertise through masterclasses around the world. He contributes to publications such as Keyboard Magazine, DownBeat, and Jazz Times and has authored the instructional book "101 Hammond B3 Tips." Away from music, Charette is a passionate chess player and holds a black sash in White Crane kung fu.
Brian Charette continues to inspire with his innovative explorations in jazz, balancing a rich tradition with a modern, experimental flair.
