Earl Hines (1903-1983) was a pianist and bandleader whose innovative stride technique and harmonic sophistication fundamentally shaped jazz piano. His left-hand independence and right-hand fluidity became touchstones for generations of jazz pianists, influencing everyone from Art Tatum to Thelonious Monk. Hines led his own big band for over a decade and remained a vital force in jazz until his death, recording prolifically and mentoring younger musicians throughout his career.
For educators, Hines matters because his playing demonstrates how classical training (he studied formally as a child) can merge seamlessly with jazz vocabulary. His interpretations reward close listening and analysis; students can hear exactly how a master musician phrases, voices chords, and reimagines a tune.
