“Peter Nero is, of course, known for his piano playing, covering a range from classical concert repertoire to straight-ahead jazz. He is also a fine co
His fingers stretch as far as Art Tatum’s, and he practically knows no limits on the Steinway. “If the perfect pops conductor could be conjured, … he might answer to this description,” wrote Philadelphia Inquirer music critic Peter Dobrin: “Huge talent with polymath abilities and catholic tastes. Musician who actually enjoys giving audiences what they want. Plays piano like a dream. … [H]e might l
ook something like Peter Nero.”
“Peter Nero is, of course, known for his piano playing, covering a range from classical concert repertoire to straight-ahead jazz. He is also a fine conductor… Philadelphia is lucky to have him and his, by now, trademark Philly Pops,” said All About Jazz’s Victor L. Schermer on May 8, 2009.
“Nero … plays with the energy of a 20-year-old rock and roll drummer,” noted the Palm Beach Daily News on March 26, 2008. “His Juilliard training shows in the cleanliness of his technique and in his control of the tone of the piano. His technical arsenal includes brilliant passage work, rapid bass lines, arpeggio-like figures ascending and descending, and subtle dynamic variations. His fast playing is thrilling, and his slow playing is marked by a beautiful lyricism.”
Two-time Grammy Award-winning pianist Peter Nero leads his unrivaled Pops orchestra blending classical, swing, Broadway, blues, and jazz—all performed with virtuosity, authenticity, and an inviting sense of humor. Philadelphia’s Evening Bulletin has written, “Nero’s own enthusiasm, humor, and creativity were the other major highlight of the show.” The Washington Post has called him “the epitome of the Pops Conductor/Performer,” while Mary Kunz, music critic for the Buffalo News, wrote, “The best aspect of Nero’s art could well be his crazy creativity. He has the gift of seeing a song as no one has seen it before.” For his ability to pick just the right material, Mr. Nero most recently was dubbed “Dr. Feelgood.”
One of Peter’s greatest achievements is being the founding Music Director of the world renowned Peter Nero and the Philly Pops. On January 27, 2007, Peter joined Rod Stewart from the piano for a performance of “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” at the Academy of Music 150th Anniversary Concert. Peter’s recent guest performances include engagements with the Toledo Symphony, the National Arts Centre Symphony in Ottawa, the Charlotte Symphony, the Buffalo Philharmonic, and the Baltimore Symphony, among others. His complete concert schedule can be found at www.peternero.com. For booking information see www.peternero.com/booking.html.
