A sophisticated jazz pianist, Christian Sands emerged in the 2000s displaying his deep understanding of the post-bop and swing traditions. A protégé of the late Dr. Billy Taylor, Sands drew early accolades for his performances at the 2006 and 2007 Grammy Awards, as well as appearances alongside Taylor at the Kennedy Center. Following early solo albums and work as a member of Christian McBride's band, the pianist came into his own with his 2017 Mack Avenue debut, Reach, and its 2018 follow-up, Facing Dragons. Following a two-year residency in Shanghai, Sands released Be Water, that found him drawing inspiration from martial arts icon Bruce Lee. In 2023, Sands, globally renowned for his concert performances of holiday songs, released Christmas Stories for Mack Avenue, accompanied by an all-star session group that included vibraphonist Stefon Harris and saxophonist Jimmy Greene.
Hometown
New Haven, CT, United States
Genre
Jazz
Christian Sands: Member of
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