Jeff Colella is an endlessly inventive, post-bop pianist, and one of Los Angeles’ busiest jazz musicians. Besides performing as a solo artist and with his trio, he maintains a very active schedule as an accompanist, recording artist, composer, arranger, producer, clinician, educator, and now author. His new book, “Love Music” is available online at mymusicMasterclass.com.
Jeff’s most recent recording is a critically acclaimed duo recording with legendary bassist Putter Smith entitled “Lotus Blossom” for the American Jazz Institute. He has two other releases as leader, “Alone Together” and “Letting Go,” both trio recordings and both on Sea Breeze Records.
His music has been recorded by several artists, most recently by the noted saxophonist Bob Sheppard, who recorded two of Jeff’s compositions on his latest CD “Close Your Eyes”, released on BFM Records. Jeff’s work as arranger/pianist can be heard on Judy Wexler’s “Back To The Garden” and on the Summit Records CD “Lost In The Stars” by vocalist Deborah Shulman and trombonist Larry Zalkind.
Jeff toured with the late, legendary Lou Rawls as his pianist and conductor for nearly sixteen years until his untimely passing in 2006. He appeared with Rawls at jazz festivals, clubs, and with orchestras throughout the U.S. and abroad. In addition to his work with Lou Rawls, the list of artists that Jeff has performed and recorded with over the years is extensive. Jeff toured worldwide for seven years with the Jazz Tap Ensemble, and also served as Musical Director for another of our legendary singers, Jack Jones. He has worked with Diane Schuur, Gregory Hines, Savion Glover, Morgana King, Sheila Jordan, Kenny Washington, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Peter Gallagher, the Bill Holman Big Band, Stacey Rowles, Larry Koonse, Bobby Shew, Bob Sheppard, Judy Wexler, Denise Donatelli, Julie Kelly, Catte Adams, the Mike Barrone Big Band, Janice Mann, Anita O’Day, Frank Potenza, Greg Poree, John Pagano, Paulette McWilliams and Miki Howard to name just a few.
In addition to his professional schedule, Jeff is currently on the faculty at the World Mission University in Los Angeles.