Cool jazz piano: from classic favorites to hidden gems.
Even within what we broadly call jazz, there are countless subgenres, and it’s fascinating how the sound itself changes depending on which instrument takes center stage.
As the name suggests, “jazz piano,” where the piano is the main focus, is an especially popular style of jazz in Japan.
There are many classic tunes that everyone has heard at least once, and I imagine quite a few jazz beginners start out by listening to a piano trio album.
In this article, we’ve gathered timeless tracks from across eras—including recent jazz—that feature up-tempo, cool, and stylish piano within the realm of jazz piano.
If you usually gravitate toward lyrical, slow jazz piano, this is a great chance to check out something different!
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Cool jazz piano: from classic favorites to hidden gems (1–10)
Peaceful WarriorAaron Parks
Aaron Parks, a genius pianist who debuted at 16.
His “Peaceful Warrior” is a fascinating piece that sounds cool despite using hardly any fast runs.
Its greatest appeal lies in its distinctive musicality.
The floating, tonally ambiguous phrasing evokes a refined atmosphere reminiscent of Debussy in classical music.
In Japan, fans of modern jazz artists like Hiromi Uehara will surely enjoy his music as well!
Get HappyFREDDIE REDD
Freddie Redd, an American pianist.
His “Get Happy” is the lead track on the self-titled album released in 1958.
The charm of this piece lies in how vividly the piano touch comes across.
Even when listening to the recorded track, it feels as if a live performance is happening right in front of you—the raw power of the piano is irresistible! His mastery of dynamics is excellent, and his performance keeps you fully engaged right to the end without ever getting boring.
Days Of Wine & RosesOscar Peterson
The original piece is the theme song for the film of the same name composed by Henry Mancini, a giant of film music, also known in Japan by the title “Sake to Bara no Hibi” (Days of Wine and Roses).
It received high acclaim, including a Grammy Award, and is also famous as a jazz standard.
Among the many versions, the performance by the Oscar Peterson Trio—led by the “Emperor of the Keyboard” himself—is legendary in jazz history.
Backed by his exceptional technique, Peterson’s dazzling playing and irresistibly dance-inducing groove embody the very essence of jazz—simply put, it’s just plain cool.
Why not listen with a wine glass in hand and a touch of swagger?
Cool jazz piano. From classic favorites to hidden gems (11–20)
RainRed Garland Trio
Rain, included on the 1958 album All Kinds of Weather, is a track where you can savor Red Garland’s flowing touch.
Performed by a trio with the light, walking bass of Paul Chambers and Art Taylor’s irresistibly swinging drums, it uses rapid passages without ever becoming grating—that’s part of its charm.
Along the way, there are solo spots not only for the piano but also for the bass and drums, making it a highly satisfying listen.
It’s a performance you’ll never tire of—be sure to check it out!
FiveBill Evans Trio
Bill Evans, whose 1971 album Waltz for Debby is highly renowned in Japan, is an artist many know well.
His Autumn Leaves from the 1959 album Portrait in Jazz is another tune you often hear.
Among his great performances, one you shouldn’t overlook is Five.
This piece, which makes extensive use of triplets, features distinctive phrases that evoke a polyrhythmic feel, with multiple rhythms interwoven.
Despite its complex rhythms, it’s full of memorable lines—so be sure to find your own favorites!
YesterdaysArt Tatum
Although American jazz pianist Art Tatum had a visual impairment, he captivated listeners with emotionally powerful performances that never let it hold him back.
In particular, his arrangement of Jerome Kern’s famous composition “Yesterdays,” featuring bold phrasing that makes expansive use of the keyboard, is a standout among Tatum’s works.
Be sure to listen to Art’s playing—hailed as “God” by Fats Waller, the great pianist who flourished in the first half of the 20th century!
Daylight saving timeGeorge Gershwin
How about a soothing lullaby that’s perfect for a languid summer afternoon? It’s a piece from George Gershwin’s opera Porgy and Bess, first introduced to the world in 1935.
This work blends the free-spirited feel of jazz with the beauty of classical music, gently embracing the listener’s heart.
Though the melody is simple, you can sense deep emotions drifting beneath the surface.
The lyrics portray a mother’s love as she soothes her child and a quiet hope for the future, imbued with the spiritual worldview of African Americans.
It’s also known for its effective use in the 1959 film adaptation of Porgy and Bess.
Tenderly accompanying hearts weary from the heat and offering a peaceful moment, this piece is recommended for anyone who wants to relax and savor music at an unhurried pace.