Bio

Thomas Linger is a multi-award-winning pianist and composer, widely acclaimed for his formidable technique, emotionally resonant playing, and inventive compositions that leave a lasting impression. Raised in the small Appalachian town of Waynesville, North Carolina, he discovered a passion for improvisational music early on, captivated by its sense of freedom, immediacy, and personal expression. He went on to earn his degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Soon after, he burst onto the national scene by winning first place in the American Jazz Pianist Competition and relocating to New York City. There, he studied with jazz legends Barry Harris, George Coleman, and Fred Hersch—mentors who helped shape his voice and artistic depth. In 2023, he was named one of five laureates in the American Piano Awards, the most prestigious jazz piano competition of its kind, offering a grand prize valued at over $200,000.

Thomas is now one of the most sought-after performers, composers, and educators in jazz today. He has appeared at many of the music’s most iconic venues, including The Village Vanguard, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and Dizzy’s Club, and has toured internationally. He also holds longstanding residencies with his band at New York City institutions such as Smalls Jazz Club, Mezzrow, and Ornithology Jazz Club.

In addition to leading his own projects, Thomas is a consummate soloist and an in-demand sideman. A standout early highlight in his career was being featured as a special guest at The Village Vanguard with Peter Bernstein’s band, alongside Joe Farnsworth, Peter Washington, and Doug Weiss.

Thomas has performed and recorded with many leading figures in jazz, including Cécile McLorin Salvant, Yasushi Nakamura, Brandon Lee, Joe Magnarelli, David Williams, Tyler Mitchell, Francisco Mela, and Terell Stafford.

His debut album, Out In It, featuring eight original compositions and performances by Bernstein, Farnsworth, and Nakamura, received critical acclaim, reached the top of the JazzWeek charts, and earned high praise from All About Jazz.