Joel Zelnik is an accomplished jazz pianist and bandleader who has made significant contributions to the jazz scene since 1962. He first gained recognition with the release of his debut album, “MOVE,” which received airtime from the jazz legend Dr. Billy Taylor and was reissued in Japan. A contemporary of celebrated pianist Bill Evans, Joel has a rich performance history, having entertained five Presidents and performed at renowned venues across New York, Atlantic City, Las Vegas, Japan, and Greece. His New York City performances have included prestigious spots like Windows On The World and The Rainbow Room.

Academically, Joel earned a B.A. from New Jersey City University and an M.A. from Rutgers University. He has recorded four CDs, with his latest release, “Live At Steinway Piano Gallery,” available in both Japan and the U.S.

Beyond his music career, Joel has also been active in his community. He served as a Councilman in Closter, NJ, where he helped incorporate a concert/meeting room into a library renovation and assisted in establishing the Closter Hall of Fame, now permanently displayed at the Closter Public Library. Additionally, Joel has contributed to historical preservation efforts in the town. He served on the Closter Historic Preservation Commission which has taken his original proposal to save one of the few surviving Lustron Homes in the U.S. into a living museum highlighting mid 20th Century America. Joel is also a substitute teacher in the South and is a substitute teacher in the South Orangetown NY Central School District.

**The Joel Zelnik Trio:**

Joel leads the Joel Zelnik Trio, known for engaging performances that highlight the musical legacy of Bill Evans, an artist with deep ties to New Jersey. The trio’s programs often feature personal stories and insights drawn from Joel’s experiences with Evans, creating a rich connection with the audience.

**Featured Programs:**

1. **MY BILL EVANS – A Personal Conversation:**
This program offers a unique perspective based on Joel’s dialogues with Bill Evans at the Village Gate during the mid-1960s. The trio performs signature works by Evans while providing informative commentary about the iconic jazz musician.

2. **TONY BENNETT & BILL EVANS – The Legendary Recordings:**
Focusing on the 50th anniversary of the collaboration between Bill Evans and Tony Bennett from the mid-1970s, this program includes performances of classic recordings, with vocalist Tony Corrao lending his voice to the beloved songs.

**Recent Performances:**

Joel’s recent engagements have taken him to numerous venues and events, including:

– Trumpets Jazz Club, Montclair, NJ
– Public Libraries in Old Bridge, Bernardsville, Watchung, Burlington County, Ft. Lee, Closter, Princeton (NJ), Pearl River, Spring Lake (NJ), Greenburgh (NY) Roslyn, Syosset, Huntington (NY) , Meriden (CT) to name a few!
– The Hill – Closter, NJ
– Americano Restaurant, Bayonne, NJ
– 1776 Restaurant, Morristown, NJ
– Salt Creek Grille, Princeton, NJ
– 76 House, Tappan, NY
-Otto’s Full Service Restaurant, Piermont NY
– Steakhouse 85, New Brunswick, NJ
– The Puffin Forum, Teaneck, NJ
– Edgewater Art & Music Festival
– Free First Thursday Series at Montclair Art Museum
– Jazz Lounge Series at Roost Restaurant, Sparkill, NY

**College Appearances:**
Joel has also performed at several educational institutions, including:

– Sarah Lawrence College
– New Jersey City University
– Bergen Community College
– Bucks County Community College
– Ocean County College Grunin Center

Through his music and community involvement, Joel Zelnik continues to inspire audiences and preserve the legacy of jazz.