Claes Crona

Jazz Pianist and Composer: Claes Crona is a Swedish jazz pianist and composer known for his distinctive style and virtuosic performances. Born in 1951 in Gothenburg, Sweden, Crona began playing piano at a young age and quickly developed a passion for jazz music. Over the course of his career, he has become a respected figure in the Swedish jazz scene, known for his technical proficiency, improvisational skills, and expressive playing.

Versatile Musician: Claes Crona is a versatile musician who is comfortable performing in a variety of jazz styles, including bebop, modal jazz, fusion, and contemporary jazz. His repertoire encompasses both original compositions and interpretations of jazz standards, showcasing his ability to adapt to different musical contexts while maintaining his distinctive voice as a pianist. Crona's versatility has allowed him to collaborate with a wide range of musicians and explore diverse musical landscapes throughout his career.

Recording Career: Throughout his career, Claes Crona has released numerous albums as a bandleader and sideman, showcasing his talents as both a performer and composer. His discography includes acclaimed albums such as "In the Spirit of Oscar" (1999), a tribute to jazz piano legend Oscar Peterson, and "Jazz at the Pawnshop Revisited" (2006), a live recording that pays homage to the iconic "Jazz at the Pawnshop" album. Crona's recordings have received praise from critics and jazz enthusiasts alike, earning him recognition as one of Sweden's foremost jazz artists.

Educator and Mentor: In addition to his work as a performer and recording artist, Claes Crona is also an experienced educator and mentor in the field of jazz music. He has served as a professor of jazz piano at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm and has conducted workshops and masterclasses for aspiring jazz musicians throughout Sweden and beyond. Crona's dedication to jazz education has helped nurture the next generation of jazz talent and foster a vibrant jazz community in Sweden.

International Recognition: While Claes Crona is primarily known for his contributions to the Swedish jazz scene, he has also gained recognition on the international stage. He has performed at jazz festivals and concert venues around the world, sharing his music with audiences in Europe, Asia, and beyond. Crona's international presence has helped raise the profile of Swedish jazz on the global stage, showcasing the richness and diversity of the country's jazz tradition.