Hal Weary is an American pianist and composer who was immersed in a musical family, which cultivated his passion for music. Owen Cordle, music critic for the New York News Observer writes, “Like Ray Charles, Horace Silver, Richard Tee, James Williams and Cyrus Chestnut, Hal Weary has the gospel sound in his piano playing and writing.” Weary began formal lessons at the age of 10, but gained his earliest professional experience playing gospel in his hometown at the age of 5. Weary recieved a B.A. in Music degree from San Jose State University and Master of Music degree from William Paterson University where he studied with jazz legends Harold Mabern, James Willisms, and Dr. Billy Tylor, among other great jazz innovators. He also won numerous awards and high recognition at festivals and competitions around the world. Currently, Weary is performing with world-class musicians from around the globe. Possessing a strong foundation in stride, bebop, hard-bop, and post-bop he has also explored Afro-Cuban rhythms, World music, and other directions with various ensembles. Hal Weary brings a distinctly artistic touch to his jazz compositions and piano playing. His feathery keyboard touch is coupled with a lot of content at any time to rest on his laurels, Weary has been involved in quite a few important musical projects, and his musical curiosity has never dimmed. Despite his peripatetic activities all around the musical map, his piano style is ever evolving into tougher, even-more-complex forms.