About the Artist

Richard Glazier

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Richard Glazier began studying piano when he was six years old. When he was nine years old he saw the 1943 film “Girl Crazy” on television. It starred Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney and had a score by George & Ira Gershwin. He was so excited by the music he was inspired to write a fan letter to the lyricist Ira Gershwin. After corresponding with each other for three years, Gershwin invited his young friend, then 12, to meet him in Beverly Hills. During their visit, Ira asked Glazier to play a Gershwin tune on the piano that once belonged to his brother, legendary composer George Gershwin. Fueled by Ira’s encouragement and interest, Glazier dedicated himself to the Gershwin repertoire and the American Popular Songbook.

Glazier’s passion for the Great American Popular Song has led him to create special programs celebrating both the golden age of Broadway and Hollywood. He plays incredible piano arrangements, then tells the history behind the songs, sharing fascinating stories about the composers, the shows, the films and the stars. His programs often include vintage images and rare film clips.

Glazier has played in concert halls across the country including Carnegie Hall, the Smithsonian, the National Portrait Gallery, the Library of Congress, and internationally including the Salle Cortot in Paris.

Glazier earned his Bachelor and Master degrees in Piano Performance from Indiana University School of Music and a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the Cleveland Institute of Music. In 2007, CIM awarded him its prestigious Alumni Achievement Award for his contributions to American Popular Song. He has also won several major international piano competitions including the Pro Musicis International Award and the National Federation of Music Clubs Young Artist Competition.