Emile Pandolfi
The Performance
Concerts by pianist Emile Pandolfi feature lush arrangements of time-honored popular standards and Broadway hits, seasoned with a dash of well-known classical favorites and fresh, just-discovered gems. Whether it’s his year-round concert evening or his expertly crafted holiday show, the night is far from a straight-laced piano “recital.” Count on his trademark quips of humor & comedy to find their way into the musical mix, and lovely guest vocalist Dana Russell adds a delicious and impressive bonus to a truly magical recipe. It’s a perfect platter of musical entertainment and has made Pandolfi a favorite from coast to coast.
With a discography of 30+ recordings and album sales in the millions, the popular concert artist has a loyal and well-networked fan base who travel miles to enjoy his live performances. Sales of Pandolfi’s recording By Request alone have surpassed 600,000 copies.
A classical piano performance degree graduate who made his symphony debut at fourteen, Emile Pandolfi’s broader approach to the stage was shaped by several years working as the “piano guy” at major comedy clubs in L.A. where he was hired to interject musical interludes between sets by “up & coming” comedians including Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Robin Williams & others. He was one of four pianists selected to record Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” for the opening ceremony of the 1984 Olympics and was one of the 84 pianists playing live during the ceremony. Now in settings ranging from the posh Feinstein’s at the Regency in Manhattan to concert halls and university venues across the country, acclaimed Steinway Artist Emile Pandolfi brings smiles, comforting familiarity and engaging warmth to every stage he plays. Satisfied, applauding patrons and invitations to return have become a standard accompaniment. An Evening with Emile Pandolfi – at any time of year – is a guaranteed 88 keys of total joy.
In a Word…
“We've had pianists from all over and none, nobody, even came close to making that piano produce what Emile did. No contest. And this is what everybody is saying.” - Pete Berry, USC Union Auditorium, Union, SC
“...goes to the music’s very soul.” - Stereophile Magazine
“...sensitivity and delicious abandon...a consummate entertainer.” - News and Observer, Raleigh, NC
“Whether knocking out popular movie themes or masterworks of the great 19th century composers, pianist Emile Pandolfi has an amazing command of the instrument...(Pandolfi) will wow you with his tireless energy and musicianship.” - Peter Manzi - Sounds from the Ground Up
“Emile Pandolfi is easy on the ears – and the funny bone. He’s built a career out of mixing his classical training with Broadway and pop. Some of his comic bits between songs focus on ‘underscoring life’ – music that should accompany real life’s awkward moments, such as ominous strains that should warn husbands when their wives ask, ‘Does this dress make me look fat?’...” - Ocala (FL) Star Banner
A Presenter's Point of View
When presenters ask advice on the "surest bet" for their series, there's not a moment's hesitation in my replying "Emile Pandolfi." I've never seen an artist's performance history so filled with repeat engagements — not just once or twice every few years — but up to six or seven repeat visits to a single venue. Audiences devour Emile's music. His fan base is well-networked, so don't be surprised at the distances folks travel to hear him. Lobby CD sales set records, and you'll personally look back on his performance as truly one of your most gratifying events in years. Some people you just can't make mean. Emile Pandolfi makes your whole building feel good.