An underground jazz artist.
Pianist, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Ben Clifton hails from Pittsburgh, PA. Immersed in the city’s rich jazz scene and shaped by formative experiences in the church, he developed a strong musical voice rooted in jazz and expressive storytelling. Clifton earned a degree in Jazz Studies from the University of Pittsburgh, studying under mentors like Frank Cunimundo and the late Geri Allen. While there, he performed with Joe Lovano, Bobby Watson, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Larry Coryell—encounters that deeply influenced his artistic development. Now based in Houston, Clifton has become a sought-after pianist in the city’s vibrant jazz community. Known for his expressive touch and collaborative spirit, he’s performed with artists such as Jalen Baker, Shelley Carrol, and Andre Hayward, and worked on genre-crossing projects with DJ Sun and the Aperio Orchestra. Festival appearances include the Houston Jazz Festival and Texas Jazz Festival, reflecting his growing profile in the national scene. Influenced by both traditional and contemporary piano lineages, Clifton continues to craft a unique and evolving sound. His debut album, Overlook—featuring a set of original compositions—is set for release in July 2025.
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Ben Clifton plays contemporary jazz centered around expressive piano compositions and rich instrumental arrangements.
Ben Clifton hails from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and is currently based in Houston, Texas.
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