Keith Jarrett is a legendary jazz pianist who has been performing for over five decades. He has won numerous awards, including the Polar Music Prize, and has released over 80 albums, many of which have become classics. Jarrett’s unique style and innovative approach to jazz piano have made him one of the most important and influential musicians of his time.

Jarrett was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania in 1945. He began playing piano at a young age and was soon recognized as a prodigy. In his early career, he played with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Art Blakey, Charles Lloyd, and Miles Davis. However, it was his solo work that truly established him as a jazz icon.

Jarrett’s solo piano concerts are legendary. He improvises entire concerts on the spot, creating complex and beautiful pieces that have stunned audiences around the world. He has recorded many of these concerts, and they have become some of the most popular jazz recordings ever made.

So why does Keith Jarrett matter? There are many reasons, but perhaps the most important is his ability to connect with audiences on a deep and emotional level. Jarrett’s music is not just technically impressive; it is also deeply expressive and personal. He has a unique ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his playing, from joy and excitement to melancholy and introspection. His music speaks to the human experience in a way that few other musicians can match.

Another reason Jarrett is so important is his innovative approach to jazz piano. He has a unique style that blends elements of classical music, gospel, and blues with traditional jazz. He has also developed a distinctive way of improvising that involves building complex structures out of simple motifs. This approach has had a profound influence on jazz musicians around the world, and has helped to push the boundaries of what is possible in jazz.

Now let’s take a look at five essential Keith Jarrett albums that showcase his incredible talent and range.

1. The Köln Concert (1975) This album is perhaps the most famous of Jarrett’s solo piano concerts. Recorded live in Cologne, Germany, in 1975, it is a masterful display of improvisation and emotion. The concert was almost canceled due to a problem with the piano, but Jarrett managed to work around the issues and deliver an unforgettable performance. The album has sold millions of copies and is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz recordings of all time.
2. Facing You (1972) This was Jarrett’s first solo piano album, and it immediately established him as a major force in jazz. The album features a mix of original compositions and improvisations, showcasing Jarrett’s unique approach to piano playing. The music is intimate and introspective, with a focus on melody and mood. It is a classic album that every jazz fan should own.
3. My Song (1978) This album features Jarrett’s “European Quartet,” which included Jan Garbarek on saxophone, Palle Danielsson on bass, and Jon Christensen on drums. The album features a mix of original compositions and jazz standards, all played with Jarrett’s trademark sensitivity and flair. The standout track is the title track, “My Song,” which has become a jazz standard in its own right.
4. Standards, Vol. 1 & 2 (1983) These albums feature Jarrett’s “Standards Trio,” which included Gary Peacock on bass and Jack DeJohnette on drums. The trio played a mix of jazz standards and original compositions, reinterpreting them in a fresh and innovative way. The albums are a testament to Jarrett’s ability to play with others and create music that is both challenging and accessible.
5. The Melody At Night, With You (1999) This album is unique in Jarrett’s discography as it features him playing standards and popular songs in a very stripped-down and intimate setting. Recorded in his home studio, the album has a warm and intimate feel that is rare in jazz recordings. Jarrett plays with a gentle touch, emphasizing melody and emotion over technical virtuosity. The album is a testament to Jarrett’s versatility and ability to connect with audiences personally.

In conclusion, Keith Jarrett is a musician of extraordinary talent and significance. His unique approach to jazz piano, his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, and his influence on jazz musicians around the world make him one of the most important figures in jazz history. His five essential albums showcase the range and depth of his talent, from his legendary solo concerts to his collaborations with other musicians. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz fan or a newcomer to the genre, exploring Jarrett’s music is an essential part of the jazz experience.