François-Joël Thiollier, born in 1943 in Paris, is an esteemed French-American classical pianist recognized for his profound impact on the world of classical music. He began his musical journey at the tender age of five with a concert in New York City. Thiollier's education in music was shaped by his studies at the Paris Conservatoire under Robert Casadesus and at the Juilliard School in New York with Sascha Gorodnitzki, where he earned both Bachelor's and Master's degrees by the age of nineteen.

Thiollier's career is decorated with numerous accolades from prestigious international competitions, including first prize at the 1965 Ettore Pozzoli Competition and notable placements in the Busoni, Tchaikovsky, and Queen Elisabeth Competitions. His extensive repertoire spans 80 concerti, and he has performed with leading orchestras in over 40 countries, captivating audiences with his technical prowess and musical sensitivity.

A prolific recording artist, Thiollier has released over 40 CDs featuring complete works of composers like Rachmaninoff, Debussy, Ravel, and Gershwin. His interpretations have been celebrated, earning him critical acclaim and awards such as the "Choc de la Musique." In recognition of his contributions to the arts, he was appointed an Officier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in 2003.

Thiollier has also served as a jury member for several international piano competitions and continues to influence the classical music scene from his residence in Italy.