A superb pianist, Johnny O'Neal began his career playing gospel piano in church while a teenager. Inspired by Oscar Peterson, Art Tatum, and Bud Powell, O'Neal started exploring jazz in 1976. His appearance in the 2004 blockbuster film "Ray" as legendary Toledo jazz pianist Art Tatum (where he played live) brought his talent into the mainstream for jazz enthusiasts. While every great jazz musician knows the value of spontaneity, few understand the true value of being in the moment quite like Johnny O’Neal.  O’Neal is outstanding in his ability to interpret a wide range of material with ease and sensitivity. His playing evokes the influences imbued in him by his idols Oscar Peterson and Art Tatum, and he has reshaped these elements into his own very swinging and melodic approach. In live performances, he is apt to catch his audience off-guard with his soulfully rendered yet unpretentious vocalizations.

The hottest little jazz club around is GPAC’s Jazz in the Box! Featuring both new and well-established artists, Jazz in the Box gives you an opportunity to get up close and personal with live jazz. Cabaret seating and drinks for purchase make this a perfect way to kick off your weekend.

Each Jazz in the Box has two performances at 7:00PM and 8:30PM unless otherwise noted.

Jazz in the Box sponsored by Amro Music