Bernard Melvin Senensky (born December 31, 1944) is a Canadian jazz pianist, organist, and composer.

Life and career

Senensky was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on December 31, 1944. ^{[1] [2]} He had classical piano lessons from the age of nine and became interested in jazz at about 15. ^{[2] [3]} He had one jazz teacher, and thereafter was self-taught. ^[3]

He moved permanently to Toronto in 1968. ^[2] He played briefly with high-profile visiting musicians, including Chet Baker, Art Blakey, Art Farmer, and Art Pepper. ^[3] Senensky played with Moe Koffman between 1980 and 2000; they toured internationally for several years. ^[3] Senensky has recorded several small group albums since 1975. ^[4]

Playing style and influences

Senensky described himself as "essentially a bebop player, and beyond. My heroes are anyone from Bud Powell to McCoy Tyner to Keith Jarrett and Herbie Hancock". ^[3] Senensky was influenced on organ by Larry Goldings, Mike LeDonne, and Larry Young. ^[3] The New Grove Dictionary of Jazz states that "His playing is characterized by his obvious comfort in a wide range of styles, from swing to the assertive post-bop of his own groups." ^[4]

Discography

An asterisk (*) indicates that the year is that of release.

As leader/co-leader

Main source: ^[5]

References