George Shearing Quotes

A collection of quotes by George Shearing.

George Shearing (1919-2011) was a highly acclaimed jazz pianist and composer known for his distinctive playing style and innovative arrangements. Born blind in Battersea, London, Shearing developed a deep passion for music from an early age. He began playing the piano at the age of three and quickly displayed prodigious talent.

In his early twenties, Shearing formed his own jazz group and garnered attention for his virtuosic piano skills and unique harmonic interpretations. His distinctive "Shearing Sound" was characterized by rhythmic block chords played with precise and delicate touch, combined with impressive improvisational skills. He drew inspiration from swing, bebop, and classical music, resulting in captivating performances that left audiences spellbound.

Shearing achieved international recognition in the late 1940s after successfully touring the United States. He became a prominent figure in the jazz scene and collaborated with renowned musicians such as Nat King Cole, Mel Tormé, and Peggy Lee. Shearing's elegant interpretations of standards like "Lullaby of Birdland" and "September in the Rain" became instant classics, further propelling his career.

Over the course of his prolific career, George Shearing recorded and released numerous albums, earning multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Jazz Instrumental Performance for his album "An Evening with George Shearing and Mel Tormé." He continued to perform and compose until the late years of his life. George Shearing's extraordinary talent and contributions to jazz have solidified his legacy as one of the genre's most influential and revered musicians.