Don Grolnick
Don Grolnick (September 23, 1947 – June 1, 1996) was an influential American jazz pianist, composer, and record producer. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Levittown, New York, Grolnick was the only child of Muriel and Lester Grolnick. He began his musical journey on the accordion before transitioning to the piano. His passion for jazz was sparked at a young age after attending a Count Basie concert with his father, followed by an Erroll Garner performance at Carnegie Hall. Grolnick pursued philosophy at Tufts University, where he also formed the jazz-rock band Fire & Ice, opening for acts like B.B. King and The Velvet Underground.
After moving back to New York in 1969, Grolnick joined the jazz fusion band "D" and later became a key member of the groups Steps Ahead and Dreams, collaborating frequently with Michael Brecker and the Brecker Brothers. As a session musician, his versatile keyboard skills were sought after by a wide array of artists, including John Scofield, Roberta Flack, Dave Holland, Bette Midler, and Steely Dan, among others. His work with Steely Dan was notably praised by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker for its precision.
Grolnick's discography as a leader includes albums like "Hearts and Numbers," "Weaver of Dreams," and "Nighttown," showcasing collaborations with prominent musicians such as Michael Brecker, Randy Brecker, and Dave Holland. He also toured with Linda Ronstadt in the late 1970s and mid-1980s.
Don Grolnick's life was tragically cut short when he died from Non-Hodgkin lymphoma at the age of 48. His contributions to jazz and popular music continue to be celebrated, and his remains are interred at Fort Hill Cemetery in Montauk, New York.