Claude Bolling (10 April 1930 – 29 December 2020) was a celebrated French jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and occasional actor. Born in Cannes, France, Bolling was a child prodigy who began playing jazz piano professionally by the age of 14, performing with renowned musicians such as Lionel Hampton, Roy Eldridge, and Kenny Clarke. He studied at the Nice Conservatory and later in Paris.

Bolling was a pivotal figure in the traditional jazz revival of the late 1960s and formed a friendship with the legendary Oscar Peterson. He was known for his extensive work in film music, composing scores for over one hundred films, including notable titles such as "The Hands of Orlac" (1960), "Borsalino" (1970), and "California Suite" (1978).

His "Suite for Flute and Jazz Piano Trio," created in collaboration with flutist Jean-Pierre Rampal, became a significant success, blending Baroque and jazz elements and achieving prolonged popularity in the United States. Bolling continued to explore crossover collaborations with other classical musicians, including guitarist Alexandre Lagoya, violinist Pinchas Zukerman, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma.

In addition to his film and crossover work, Bolling contributed to animated features, composing for the "Lucky Luke" series. His discography includes albums like "French Jazz" (1956), "Rolling with Bolling" (1957), and "Suite for Flute and Jazz Piano Trio" (1975), among others. Bolling's influence and contributions to jazz and film music remain significant, marking him as a versatile and innovative artist in the music world.