Biography Richard Twardzik

Richard Twardzik (April 30, 1931 in Danvers, Massachusetts – October 21, 1955 in Paris) was a jazz pianist known for bebop who worked for the bulk of his career in Boston.

He trained in classical piano as a child and made his professional debut at 14. He was taught by prominent Boston piano teacher Margaret Chaloff, mother of the baritone player Serge Chaloff, in whose group Twardzik recorded in addition to one led by Charlie Mariano. He also worked with Charlie Parker on several occasions towards the end of the altoists life when Parker was performing locally.

Twardzik became addicted to heroin as a teenager. He died from a heroin overdose while on a European tour with Chet Baker.

Creative Commons By-SA License