Ralph Sharon

Ralph Sharon was a British jazz pianist and arranger best known for his long collaboration with iconic jazz vocalist Tony Bennett. Here are some facts about him:

1. Early Life and Career Beginnings: Ralph Sharon was born on September 17, 1923, in London, England. He began playing the piano at a young age and showed early talent as a musician. Sharon's interest in jazz developed during his teenage years, and he quickly became immersed in the vibrant jazz scene in London. He honed his skills as a pianist and arranger, drawing inspiration from jazz legends such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Art Tatum.

2. Collaboration with Tony Bennett: Ralph Sharon's most significant musical partnership was with jazz vocalist Tony Bennett. The two first met in 1957 when Bennett was looking for a pianist for his upcoming engagement at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco. Impressed by Sharon's musicality and sensitivity, Bennett asked him to join his quartet as pianist and musical director. This collaboration marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership that lasted over five decades.

3. Musical Contributions: As Tony Bennett's musical director, Ralph Sharon played a crucial role in shaping the vocalist's sound and style. He arranged many of Bennett's most beloved recordings, including hits like "I Left My Heart in San Francisco", "The Good Life", and "The Shadow of Your Smile". Sharon's elegant and tasteful arrangements provided the perfect backdrop for Bennett's rich and emotive vocals, helping to define the singer's signature sound.

4. Recording Career: In addition to his work with Tony Bennett, Ralph Sharon also had a successful recording career as a bandleader and solo artist. He released numerous albums under his own name, showcasing his skills as a pianist and arranger. His recordings often featured a mix of jazz standards, original compositions, and inventive arrangements, highlighting Sharon's versatility and creativity as a musician.

5. Legacy and Influence: Ralph Sharon's contributions to the jazz world are widely recognized and celebrated. His elegant piano playing, sophisticated arrangements, and impeccable musical taste left an indelible mark on the music industry. Sharon's collaboration with Tony Bennett produced some of the most memorable recordings in jazz history, earning him a place among the most respected and influential musicians of his generation. Even after his passing in 2015, Ralph Sharon's music continues to be treasured by jazz enthusiasts and revered by fellow musicians for its timeless beauty and enduring impact.