Pianist Richard Glazier is one of today's foremost interpreters of the American Popular Songbook and a leading exponent of the music of George and Ira Gershwin. Trained in the classics, Glazier earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in piano performance from Indiana University School of Music and a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the Cleveland Institute of Music. In 2007 he was awarded the Alumni Achievement Award from the Cleveland Institute of Music for his contributions to the American Popular Song. He won several major international piano competitions including the Pro Musicis International Award and National Federation of Music Clubs Grand Prize, and made formal classical debuts in New York, Boston, Los Angeles and Rome.
Of him, the Los Angeles Times has said, “The playing was exceptional. Meticulous with detailing and touch, free and easy with pulse...” The NY Times said, “Mr. Glazier gave a risk-taking and vivid performance…”, and Clavier magazine said, “Gershwin's piano music has found an exquisite voice in Richard Glazier.”
Since he began touring in 1996, Glazier has performed
in nearly every state of the union, bringing audiences not only the music of the Golden Age, but fascinating commentary about the composers and stars of the era as well. The Carnegie Hall veteran offers audiences a seamless blend of stories, film clips and piano performances. His programs are at once entertaining, educational and inspiring. For some of his audiences, Glazier brings back fond memories, for others, he gives an exciting glimpse of our musical heritage.
In 2010, Glazier's television program, “From Gershwin to Garland – A Musical Journey with Richard Glazier” began showing on PBS stations around the country. In the hour-long show, he tells about his friendships with three legendary figures in American Popular Song, Ira Gershwin, Johnny Green and Hugh Martin, as well as opera star Camilla Williams (“Porgy & Bess”) and the great Judy Garland, whose artistry introduced a 9-year old Glazier to this music.
Richard Glazier is a Steinway artist.
