Guest Book

I went to my first Peter Nero Trio concert in Chicago at Orchestra Hall circa' 1967. I think it was that concert plus his records that inspired me to play piano for hobby/fun for my entire life thru this day. Thanks, Peter. Also, you had so memorable concerts at the London House and Ravinia in my hometown of Chicago. RIP Dear Mr Pianist!!!!

My first exposure to Peter Nero was in the mid-1960s, when on Christmas my parents gave me a Peter Nero record album as a present. They also gave my older brother a Peter Nero record. Mine was "Peter Nero In Person." As a young teenager I was impressed by his finesse on the piano, and I was also tickled by the witticisms and asides he included in the recording. Almost 60 years later, I still listen to Peter's recordings. Just a few days ago, in fact, I dug out a cassette tape(!) of a recording Peter made with the Rochester Philharmonic. It was issued by Pro-Arte in 1991. Rochester happens to be my hometown, and I was a scholarship recipient in the Eastman School of Music's Preparatory Department in Rochester, New York, where I studied trombone. What a great recording that cassette turned out to be. It included Peter's usual admixture of classical, popular, and jazz genres. The music brought a smile to my face. I've listened to the tape several times now. I look forward to listening to it again. Saddened by Peter's passing, I extend my sincere condolences to his surviving family members, friends, and fans--of whom I was and always will be.

Peter Nero provided the soundtrack for my early childhood. My Dad loved him along with Al Hirt, Pete Fountain and Buddy Rich. What a band THAT would have made. "Up Close" was the first Nero album my Dad bought and he played it daily on his big stereo next to his reclioner in the living room. To this day, I know every note of that album. Mr. Nero taught me about music simply by how he played and how he arranged tunes. His Tijuana Brass tribute album married by Dad's favorite musicioan with the first band I discovered on my own as a young boy. It was eye opening but should not have been a surprise as Mr. Nero was constantly breaking down and morphing musical genres. I was fortunate to see him perform live five times, including four with my Dad — magical moments for a father and son who enjoyed music and reveled in great music — the kind Peter Nero arranged, played and shared with the world. I hope Mr. Nero and my Dad are playing "Dueling Pianos" up in heaven today. I know who would win that duel (sorry, Dad), but it sure would be something to hear. — Bob Johnson (a Peter Nero fan for 60 years at age 65)

Deepest, heartfelt sympathy on the loss of a music legend, with thanks for all the years of beautiful music. 🕯🌹

I was so saddened to learn of Mr. Nero’s passing. The world of music now has a gap no person can ever fill. We saw Mr. Nero play as a solo pianist. We saw him play with a trio. We saw him play with an orchestra. We also saw him conduct the Pops. In all cases he was without compare, a master. His music will live on forever, but his genius will be missed.

Finally saw Porgy and Bess (1959) and revisited your superb unequaled medley. Thank you for so much joy since the 1960's.

Peter you are the best! Hope to see u in Seattle area in future

Hello, my name is Elise Nanista, my dad, Richard Nanista played the bass with you. I’d really like to get into contact, please email me at elisenanista@gmail.com.

Dear Peter Nero, I know I have written to you before but do not see it here so I am writing again. I first heard you play when I was in college in 1962-1966. My boyfriend at the time would take me to your concerts and I still have your autograph form when he took me backstage in San Francisco to meet you. We were supposed to see you in Santa Clara Calif when it was cancelled due to the assassination of President Kennedy. On our 20th anniversary, my husband surprised me with tickets to Philadelphia to see you for a holiday show. We flew there from Denver for the weekend. I was so excited I could hardly contain my enthusiasm. But we did not realize that you would not be the pianist, you were the conductor! I was so disappointed! You played part of one song and was so unmistakably YOU, the music I have loved for so many years. Now, I listen to you on Pandora. I am playing you now, and I am almost in tears- your music is still so stirring and beautiful. Will I ever see you play again? Oh- please come to Denver and play with our symphony! Please!! Wishing you all the best, and THANK YOU Mr Nero for the joy you have given me and countless others.

Just listening to one of my old records: The music of George Gershwin with Peter Nero, Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops. Great recording, beautiful arrangements and fantastic piano playing. Thanks for the music.

Happy Birthday Mr Nero. You are simply the best!

Simplesmente mágico! Maravilhoso! Gratidão por seu talento!

Happy Birthday Peter, In honor of your birthday I listened to two of my favorites, Fantasy and Improvisations (for about the 5 thousandth time) and the Peter Nero Now album recorded at Concord Jazz Studio. Wishing you today as much joy your music brings me. thanks you.

Mr. Nero, I was 18 years old when I became fascinated by you, your music style and performances at the Academy of Music. One of my happiest moments was seeing you in the Jacobs Music Store in Center City (Philly) on Chestnut Street playing a piano behind closed doors. I peeked through the window you turned look at me with a smile and waved. I'm 62 now and still remember the wonderful feeling I felt that day. I wish you all the best. Paula