Chris McCarthy

Chris McCarthy (keyboard) is known for his “high skill and sensitivity” (The New York Times) and is one of the most in-demand pianists in New York City. He has developed a reputation as “one of the most imaginative and impressive voices on the New York jazz scene” (Hot House Jazz ). McCarthy grew up in the thriving local music scene of Seattle. Early accolades included the 2012 Gerald Wilson Award for big band composition at the Monterey Jazz Festival. After playing with Jerry Bergonzi and Jason Palmer’s working bands in Boston for several years, he moved to New York in 2016 and has been collaborating there with artists from around the globe ever since. McCarthy released his debut for Ropeadope Records, Still Time to Quit, in 2020, featuring Takuya Kuroda on trumpet, Michael Blake on sax, Sam Minaie on bass, and JK Kim on drums. The album received widespread critical praise, including the number three slot in Paul Rauch’s “Best Local Jazz Albums of 2020” for the Seattle Times. McCarthy is known for his sensitive accompanying of vocalists, working with many of New York’s finest: Vanisha Gould, Lucy Yeghizarian, Aubrey Johnson, and Sami Stevens, to name a few. He is also active in the world music scene, touring with Carnatic vocalist Roopa Mahadevan and Gnawa musician Samir Langus. His playing is featured on albums by rising stars such as vibraphonist Sasha Berliner (Azalea, 2019) and saxophonist Eden Bareket (Day Dream, 2021). In 2021, McCarthy’s playing was featured on BBC Radio 1 and drummer Questlove’s social media. He also collaborates with R&B duo Lion Babe and is featured on their album Cosmic Wind. In January 2023, McCarthy was a featured artist in legendary pianist Johnny O’Neal’s show Tribute to the Crooners at Jazz at Lincoln Center. He currently plays in legendary tap dancer Dormeshia’s new show Rhythm is Life, a New York Times “Critic’s Pick.” May 2023 brought the release of Priorities (Fresh Sound Records), McCarthy’s new album of originals in the piano trio tradition featuring Chris Tordini on bass and Steven Crammer on drums. The international jazz scene will continue to hear from McCarthy for years to come.