Tim Chernikoff

Born: April 29, 1988

Tim Chernikoff is making a significant impact on the New York jazz scene with his unique style that blends the traditions of bebop and swing with personal exploration. His commitment to discovering his musical identity through both composition and improvisation sets him apart, earning him praise from fellow musicians like Dan Haerle for his inventiveness.

Chernikoff's journey has taken him across the U.S., performing with top-tier musicians in diverse locales such as the Bay Area, Dallas Fort Worth, and New York City. His education spans renowned institutions, including the Stanford Jazz Workshop, North Texas, and the Manhattan School of Music, enriching his artistic perspective.

Drawing from a wide range of influences—from Maurice Ravel and Thelonious Monk to Cecil Taylor and Frank Zappa—Chernikoff's compositions evoke a spectrum of emotions, offering listeners a mix of elegance and raw intensity. He describes his creative process as a response to the dualities of life, stating, “If I didn’t appeal to the quiet serenity and bombastic crassness that I observed in my daily life, then I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night.”

Following the release of his debut album, Pieces of Sanity, in 2021, Chernikoff is gearing up for a new album set to drop in late 2025, showcasing works in progress during his performances next year. His adventurous trio work promises to deliver an engaging musical experience, filled with catharsis and introspection.

Awards

2006 Louis Armstrong Jazz Award, Palo Alto High School

Best Jazz Albums of 2021, An Earful Jazz Blog

Gear

Yamaha C3 Grand Piano

Roland A-88 MkII

Yamaha YC-88

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