RANDY WESTON (pianist, composer) was born April 6, 1926 in Brooklyn, NY. Weston, known for his percussive technique, studied classical music as a child and counted his influences as Count Basie, Art Tatum, Duke Ellington and most of all Thelonius Monk. After his service in World War II he played with a number of variety of R and B influenced bands including Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson’s before forming his own groups in the 1950s. The highly respected and innovative musician, who has produced standards such as “Hi-Fly” was most profoundly inspired by a series of visits to Africa, and incorporated elements of African - particularly Moroccan music into his numerous albums and compositions.