BIO
A graduate of the Bologna conservatory with a degree in contemporary music, German born Italian pianist Antonio Ciacca has played with jazz legends Steve Grossman, James Carter, Marcus Belgrave, Larry Smith, Roy Brooks, Lee Konitz Art Farmer, Mark Murphy, Johnny Griffen, James Moody and Dave Liebman. Antonio was the pianist for Steve Lacy for his seven years before and has toured extensively throughout the world with jazz legend Benny Golson. With performances in venues such as Pizza express and Ronnie Scott’s in London, the Blue Note in Milan, Alexander Platz in Rome, London Jazz Festival, Pori Jazz festival, Stockholm Jazz Festival and the Village Vanguard (with Wess Anderson and Wynton Marsalis), Antonio has proven himself on the world stage.
Ciacca’s bebop influenced style coupled with his deep rooted love for gospel music has helped to shape his sound and has given birth to a refreshing new voice in jazz. “Lush Life” is his fourth outing as a leader features Antonio’s New York City based quintet: Antonio Ciacca (p); Kengo Nakumura (bass); Rodney Green (drums); Stacy Dillard (sax); Joe Magnerlli (trumpet). The record is produced by Grammy® award winning producer Todd Barkan at New York’s legendary jazz recording spot, THE STUDIO. In addition to working as a pianist and composer, Mr. Ciacca is also renowned as an expert on the history and business of jazz and he currently collaborates works as the Director of Programming for Jazz at Lincoln Center, Artistic Director, Wynton Marsalis.