Erroll Garner (1921 - 1977) was a sophisticated jazz pianist referred to as .".. a brilliant virtuoso who sounded unlike anyone else..." . His approach to music was in the style of "Swing Music" as well as "Bop", but he still had a very unique, individual style that was heavily influenced by his lack of training (he wasn't taught how to read music), as well as many composers and particular playing styles. Over time, garner developed his own style and has been referred to as a pioneer of the "hard swinging jazz style."

The distinctiveness of Garner's individuality has often been discussed and many people believe he was ."..ultimately a very idiosyncratic player, and he didn't fit well into any of the standard piano style groupings of 40's and 50's jazz." However, it was the rare uniqueness that people admired and appreaciated that brought the chic American jazz pianist to fame.

Garner...