Looking for the perfect piano performance to elevate your next event in New Orleans, Louisiana? From elegant wedding ceremonies to lively dueling piano shows, the city is home to a diverse group of pianists whose artistry and professionalism make every occasion unforgettable. Whether you want soulful classical music, jazzy cocktail tunes, or high-energy entertainment, these New Orleans-based pianists are sure to impress.
Here are Seven of the most talented pianists you can book in New Orleans today:
Sullivan Fortner
Sullivan Fortner has been stretching deep-rooted talents as a pianist, composer, band leader and uncompromising individualist. The GRAMMY Award-winning artist and educator out of New Orleans received international praise as both key player and producer for his collaborative work on The Window, alongside Cecile McLorin Salvant, and earned a 2023 GRAMMY nomination for his provocative arrangement of “Optimistic Voices/No Love Dying” from her 2022 release Ghost Song.
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Kyle Roussel
Kyle Roussel is a modern voice for New Orleans music and is aiming to put the unique musical texture of the city he loves on the map in a big way as both an artist and producer.
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Nicoli Hutchison
My name is Nicoli Hutchison and I have been performing music since the age of five, when I began piano lessons. I participated in recitals and lessons for the next 17 years. Once I entered college, I began exploring other musical opportunities such as playing for weddings and singing at various events. I played talent shows, charities for nursing homes, Christmas concerts and many other events.
Jon Cleary
After thirty-five years of being at the forefront of the ever-evolving musical landscape of New Orleans, Grammy Award winner Jon Cleary decided to bring that sound back home, both figuratively and literally. He assembled his Absolute Monster Gentlemen (his acclaimed all-star big band) in his home studio in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, drew up a setlist of some of his most beloved songs– and some new favorites– and rolled tape.
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Joe Krown
Joe Krown is a resident and is based out of the city of New Orleans. He is a New Orleans styled piano and Hammond B-3 player. He is a Hammond endorsed artist and is part of the Hammond artist family. Joe’s played the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival every year since 2001 and the French Quarter Festival every year since 1998. He has been nominated twice and won a 2000 New Orleans Big Easy Award in the Blues category. His trio with Johnny Sansone & John Fohl won a 2004 New Orleans Big Easy Award in the Blues category. His Hammond organ trio featuring legendary Louisiana guitarist Walter Wolfman Washington won a 2009 New Orleans Big Easy Award in the Blues Category and a 2009 Offbeat Award for Best R&B/Funk Album.
Joshua Davis
Hello! My name is Joshua Davis and I am a jazz pianist based in Baton Rouge. I can improvise in multiple styles including jazz, pop, gospel, country, and blues. I don’t know every song but I can learn them quickly so let me know if you have specific requests!
Luciano Leães
In nearly 30 years of career, pianist Luciano Leães has built an impressive artistic journey. The Brazilian musician and composer has shared the stage with names like Carey Bell, Hubert Sumlin, Tony Coleman, James “Boogaloo” Bolden, and Annika Chambers. He has performed at renowned festivals such as the Montreal Jazz Festival (Canada), New Orleans Jazz Fest (New Orleans), and Lucerne Blues Fest (Switzerland). He was also invited to open for Elton John at Estádio do São José in Porto Alegre, Brazil, in 2013, in a solo performance. Alongside his original work, Leães has maintained an international career with a steady presence in the southern United States, where he has performed regularly for nearly a decade. His music has been played on stations like New Orleans’ WWOZ, with albums and singles released at iconic venues such as the renowned Maple Leaf.
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Final Thoughts
From elegant cocktail music to high-energy dueling pianos, New Orleans’s pianists offer something for every kind of celebration. Whether you want classical refinement, jazz ambiance, or crowd-pleasing entertainment, these Seven talented performers bring the perfect soundtrack to your event.
📩 Need help finding the right pianist for your New Orleans event? Reach out anytime at dreamteam@booklive.com — we’ll help match you with the perfect performer.