T h o m a s L i n g e r

Thomas Linger is a jazz pianist and composer whose music explores the expressive possibilities of improvisation. Blending lyricism, rhythmic freedom, and a deeply personal harmonic language, his performances move fluidly between composition and spontaneous creation.

A laureate of the American Piano Awards and winner of the American Jazz Pianist Competition, he has appeared at leading venues including The Village Vanguard and Jazz at Lincoln Center, performing internationally as both a solo pianist and ensemble leader.

Projects

Solo Piano: Improvisations & Originals
A concert program of original compositions, standards, and spontaneous improvisations.

Thomas Linger Trio
The Thomas Linger Trio is a composition-driven ensemble centered on rhythmic depth and long-form narrative. The group’s music unfolds through extended forms and fluid interaction, balancing structural clarity with a highly responsive, improvisational approach.

Thomas Linger Quartet
The Thomas Linger Quartet, featuring Peter Bernstein, Joe Farnsworth, and Yasushi Nakamura, presents music from Linger’s debut album Out In It. The group explores the space between swing tradition and contemporary improvisation, driven by strong rhythmic interplay, melodic clarity, and a highly responsive ensemble dynamic.

Debut Album: Out In It

Upcoming Performances / Tour Dates

4/17 Drais Jazz and Supper Club NYC

5/11 Ornithology Jazz Club NYC

7/5 Smalls Jazz Club NYC

Press Quotes

“An impressive debut.”
— All About Jazz

“Linger solos splendidly on every number.”
— All About Jazz

“Earnestly contemporary but never heedless of the tradition.”
— All About Jazz