A lifelong New Yorker, pianist Ray Gallon has been a mainstay on the jazz scene for over three decades, with a resume that includes touring and recording with many legendary jazz masters, including Ron Carter, Art Farmer, Lionel Hampton/Dizzy Gillespie, Jon Hendricks, and Sheila Jordan. Rooted in bebop and blues, Ray’s expressive, swingin’ playing melds old and new into a fresh, original style.
Ray’s 2023 trio album “Grand Company” features the illustrious rhythm section of Maestro Ron Carter and Lewis Nash. Recorded at the iconic Van Gelder Studio, the album showcases a mix of Ray's distinctive original compositions along with his fresh perspectives on several classic standards. Bill Charlap, in his liner notes, calls the album “a milestone”.
Ray’s 2021 trio album, “Make Your Move”, was greeted with unanimous critical acclaim and features the stellar rhythm section of David Wong and Kenny Washington.
Both of these albums are available through Cellar Live via Bandcamp and are also available for streaming on all platforms.
Ray lives in Hell's Kitchen Manhattan. He teaches jazz at City College of New York in Harlem, performs frequently in New York City, and tours internationally several times a year.
“Gallon is a brilliant pianist deeply rooted in the tradition.” - The New York City Jazz Record
“WOW!!! . . . Love your work. . . Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to listen to your art!!! ” - Ahmad Jamal
“Ray Gallon, Ron Carter and Lewis Nash are supreme musicians and 'Grand Company' is a prize!” - Bill Charlap
“Ray Gallon…extraordinary pianist…talented composer and arranger…” - Ron Carter
“Ray Gallon’s Grand Company demonstrates that, when it comes to piano trios, cream always rises above the din. Gallon is commanding, poised and witty; comes together with luminous energy and three-way telepathy.” - Downbeat Magazine