Francis Lockwood , a French pianist and composer born in Calais in 1952, is a unique figure in French jazz. The older brother of violinist Didier Lockwood , he has distinguished himself with a free, audacious, and profoundly hybrid style.
Jazz, rock and freedom
Trained in classical violin, Francis Lockwood won an award at 17 before turning to jazz, drawn to its freedom of expression. Influenced by Oscar Peterson , Bill Evans , and Jimi Hendrix , he developed a personal approach to the piano. His tribute to Hendrix, Jimi's Colors , appeals to both jazz and rock fans.
An unclassifiable musical explorer
Ranked among the top five European pianists by Jazz Hot in 1987, Francis Lockwood has never stopped exploring new musical territories. He navigates between jazz, rock, world music, and classical music, as evidenced by his album Round About Bach (2012). His latest project, NEW SURYA (2024), in collaboration with Johan Renard , confirms this inexhaustible sonic quest.
Still active on stage and in the studio, he remains an essential voice in contemporary French jazz.
