jazz piano

Jazz piano is the use of an acoustic piano or electric piano as an improvising instrument in a jazz group or jazz fusion ensemble. The piano has been an integral part of the jazz idiom since its inception, in both solo and ensemble settings. The instrument is also an important tool in the understanding of jazz theory and arranging for jazz musicians and composers because of its combined melodic and harmonic nature. Along with jazz guitar, and Hammond organ, the piano is one of the few instruments in a jazz combo which can play chords, rather than single notes only, as with the saxophone or trumpet.