David Benoit

Jazz Pianist and Composer

David Benoit is an American jazz pianist, composer, and conductor who has been a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene since the late 1970s. Born on August 18, 1953, in Bakersfield, California, Benoit's music encompasses a broad range of styles including straight-ahead jazz, smooth jazz, and classical music. Over the course of his career, he has released numerous albums that have showcased his melodic and accessible piano style. Benoit has been nominated for three Grammy Awards and has worked with an array of talented musicians. He is also known for his contributions to film and television scores and for being a longtime musical interpreter of the Peanuts comic strip by Charles Schulz. David Benoit's influence extends beyond his recordings as he has also made significant contributions to music education, often advocating for music programs in schools.