menu Home Page Music Biography Events Contact Biography Page
Bryant

"True art is characterized by an irresistible urge in the creative artist."
-- Albert Einstein

 

gerry bryantThe Musician In His Own Words:

"My musical influences range from classical masters Chopin, Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff, to jazz legends Nat King Cole and Duke Ellington, to contemporary artists Keith Jarrett and Ramsey Lewis. I've had extensive classical training since childhood, first in my home town of Cleveland, Ohio -- where I was by far the only person in my poor, inner-city neighborhood with a passion for classical music -- from noted music teacher Ethel Morton, and continuing at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts (where one of my classmates was prize-winning jazz pianist Bill Cunliffe) with the acclaimed German concert pianist and teacher, Albion Metcalf.

"I had initially planned on becoming a concert pianist, but that dream evolved when I went to Harvard (where one of my classmates was nonpareil cellist Yo Yo Ma). When I wasn't partying or just having a good time (and studying, of course), I was broadening my musical vocabulary by immersing myselfgerry bryant in many other musical genres and performing with professional musicians in bands unaffiliated with Harvard. Since then, I have performed in jazz, R&B and rock groups on the east and west coasts, I've been tutored by and performed with jazz greats and I've accompanied Broadway musical stars. Those experiences have been phenomenal.

"I had the privilege and pleasure of giving a private, impromptu (unauthorized and rogue!) recital at the truly magnificent Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles shortly after it opened. It was heaven. Very inspiring. I’ve also had the privilege of composing, arranging and performing music for a documentary by an Academy Award winning filmmaker.

Knowing since I was a child that I would be a musician as my profession, I decided to earn a law degree and an MBA primarily for the purpose of becoming my own attorney so that I could handle my own contracts and understand the business of music and the arts. But alas, despite the best laid plans, life still seems to take you wherever it decides. Contrary to my original plans, I have provided legal assistance along the way to many other creative individuals, arts organizations and entertainment corporations. I am not complaining about the direction my life has taken. Far from it. I’ve been very fortunate to have met, worked with, and assisted many amazing and immensely talented artists – well known as well as those deserving much wider recognition. For that, I am very grateful and truly blessed.

"Meanwhile, through my music, I hope to spread my positive approach to life, and to touch a chord with as many people as possible."

gerry bryant
Excerpt From UCLA Medical Center Auxiliary and Volunteer News, "Musicians With A Caring Heart":


"If you have ever wandered the hallways of the 200 Medical Plaza Building on a Monday or Tuesday afternoon, more than likely you were treated to the lovely music of volunteer . . . Gerry Bryant . . . [an] exceptional volunteer who donate[s his] time and talent to the patients of the 200 Medical Plaza. It is [his] hope that [his] music will brighten the days of the people visiting the building, while also teaching an appreciation for fine music. . . .

"Gerry Bryant, more commonly known as the "Piano Man," exudes a special warmth and exuberance while playing the piano for the patients at the 200 Medical Plaza. Each [Monday] and Wednesday, Gerry plays an arrangement of music including jazz, classical, and even popular tunes for the many passersby and regulars that come to hear him. . . .

"Above all, music is what is important to Gerry and being able to share his talent and ability with others is a true gift. Often times Gerry will be accompanied at the piano by an impromptu vocalist who becomes inspired by his music. Other times, Gerry will play special children's songs to a young audience. Most of all, he creates many smiles on the faces of people as they enjoy his music."

gerry bryantThe Attorney Curriculum Vitae:

Education:

         UCLA School of Law, JD
         UCLA Anderson Graduate School of Management, MBA
         Harvard University, AB cum laude
         Phillips Andover Academy, cum laude

Sampling of Past and Present Clients:

         KCET, the largest independent public television station in the U.S.
         Luna Ray Films, a Peabody Award winning film and TV production company
         The Mirisch Agency, a leading film and television talent agency
         Nissan Corp., a car manufacturer and sponsor of major cultural and sporting events
         Numerous other artists, musicians, writers and creative people of all stripes.

Publications:

         Arts & Entertainment,
         a weekly newspaper column published by the Daily Journal Corp.

Board of Directors Memberships:

         California Lawyers for the Arts (Past Co-President of the Board)
         Harvardwood
         Create Now

Affiliations, Past and Present:

         American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP)
         Black Entertainment and Sports Lawyers Association
         Black Filmmakers Foundation
         Chamber Music America
         Musicians Union Local 47
         National Association of Recording Industry Professionals
         Screen Actors Guild
         State Bar of California

gerry bryant hands

Music Playing in the Background: “Valerie's Song”, composed by Gerry.
Painting behind Gerry in the photo: Psychopomp l 46 x 70 by Suzan Woodruff.

HOME | MUSIC | BIOGRAPHY| EVENTS | CONTACT | PocketWatch

Gerry Bryant FaceBook PageGerry Bryant YouTube Channel

© 2011 Gerry Bryant, all rights reserved.
Webmaster Slick+Slicker Designs Design Josie Porter