MICHEL PETRUCCIANI
Michel Petrucciani was a celebrated jazz pianist who was born on December 28, 1962, in Orange, France. Petrucciani was born with osteogenesis imperfecta or brittle bone disease which caused him to be only about three feet tall. Despite his physical challenges, Petrucciani was an incredibly talented musician who began playing piano at a very young age. He was influenced by American jazz artists like Thelonious Monk and Bill Evans, and he had an innovative and unique style that fused elements of jazz, blues, and classical music.
Throughout his career, Petrucciani collaborated with some of the biggest names in jazz music, including Charles Lloyd, Wayne Shorter, and Roy Haynes. He released more than 20 albums and received numerous awards and accolades, including the French Order of Arts and Letters.
Petrucciani passed away in 1999 at the age of 36 due to complications from a pulmonary infection. Despite his short life, his profound impact on the jazz world and music lovers worldwide has made him a legendary figure. His music continues to inspire new generations of jazz musicians and continues to be celebrated through ongoing re-releases of his recordings.