Pianist, composer, arranger, teacher, producer—these are some of the faces Erik Deutsch has shown the world.  An intensely creative and talented player, he has the ability to lend his sound to an impressive array of musical endeavors. 

After a decade in Colorado, Erik is now a resident of Brooklyn, New York.  As a leader, his current projects include County Road X, Triangle, and the new Erik Deutsch Band. As a sideman: Charlie Hunter Trio, Ron Miles Band, Sonya Vallet and Los Profugos Galacticos, Jessica Lurie Ensemble, Monika H Band, and a partnership with house music guru Mr. V.

In August of 2006, Erik embarked on a new recording project.  Featuring Ron Miles, Jenny Scheinman, Allison Miller, Todd Sickafoose, Ross Martin, and Janet Feder, the session showcases nine of Deutsch’s new compositions.  Expect a release sometime in early 2007.

Erik’s group County Road X, formed in 2001, performs cinematic-Americana music (imagine a Stanley Kubrick/Sergio Leone double-feature with an electric Miles Davis soundtrack).  CRX was recently featured at the 2006 Green Apple Music Festival in NYC.

Triangle, a piano trio featuring Art Lande on drums, is another of Deutsch’s long-term projects.  The group focuses on an expansive repertoire while exploring modern rhythm and harmony.

The history…

Upon arriving at the university of Colorado in 1995, Erik began studies with pianists Art Lande, Greg Dyes, and Robert Spillman.  It wasn’t long before he formed Fat Mama. Fellow members Joe Russo (drums), Jonathan Goldberger (guitar), Kevin Kendrick (vibes/turntables), and Jonti Siman (bass) are current NYC residents.

After completing his degree from CU in piano performance, Erik stayed in Boulder, CO developing a busy career as a performer and teacher. He played frequently with Art Lande, Ron Miles, Devotchka, Liza, The Motet, and Casey Collins among others.

Erik also has had the pleasure of working with James Blood Ulmer, Scott Amendola, Skerik, Johannes Weidenmueller, Leni Stern, Will Bernard, and Derico Watson.  

The early years…

Erik Deutsch was born in Washington D.C. in 1976. When his family relocated to Nashville in 1982, Erik began Suzuki piano studies at Vanderbilt University.  Before long there were solo recitals, lead sheets, lengthy renditions of Louie Louie and a performance at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Returning to the Washington D.C. area in 1987, Erik discovered jam sessions at The One Step Down, Twins, and the HR57.  Pianist George Colligan was an inspiring instructor during this time.

In high school Erik performed with a number of talented musicians who have found success in their careers.  Percussionist Aaron Siegel performs internationally with Anthony Braxton, John Davis drums for Q But Not U, and guitarist Jason Simon leads Dead Meadow.