John Lewis (pianist)

John Lewis
Lewis in 1977
Lewis in 1977
Background information
Birth nameJohn Aaron Lewis
Born(1920-05-03)May 3, 1920
La Grange, Illinois, U.S.
DiedMarch 29, 2001(2001-03-29) (aged 80)
New York City, U.S.
GenresJazz
Occupations
  • Musician
  • composer
  • arranger
InstrumentPiano
Years active1940s–1990s
Formerly ofThe Modern Jazz Quartet

John Aaron Lewis (May 3, 1920 – March 29, 2001) was an American jazz pianist, composer and arranger, best known as the founder and musical director of the Modern Jazz Quartet.