David Kikoski is a Grammy-nominated jazz pianist known for his virtuosic technique, deep swing, and inventive improvisation. Born in Milltown, New Jersey, he began studying piano at age six with his father and later attended Berklee College of Music before establishing himself on the New York jazz scene in the mid-1980s.

 

Over the past four decades, Kikoski has become one of the most respected pianists in modern straight-ahead jazz, performing and recording with many of the music’s leading artists, including Roy Haynes, Randy and Michael Brecker, Pat Metheny, Christian McBride, Chris Potter, and numerous others. He has appeared on more than 100 recordings and has released numerous albums as a leader. Kikoski has also been a longtime member of the Mingus Big Band and Mingus Dynasty, performing the music of Charles Mingus on stages around the world.

 

A longtime resident of Jersey City, Kikoski remains an active presence in the New York area jazz community while continuing to perform internationally. His trio with bassist Joe Martin and legendary drummer Billy Hart has developed a strong musical rapport through touring and performances, including appearances at Shanghai’s JZ Jazz Club and the New York Piano Jazz Festival. The trio recorded a live album at Smalls in New York with special guest Randy Brecker, which was released in 2025.

 

Celebrated for his dynamic touch, harmonic imagination, and deeply swinging feel, Kikoski continues to inspire audiences worldwide with performances rooted in the tradition yet constantly evolving through spontaneous interaction and creativity.