Simon Lasky
instructor of keyboard skills
Email: simonlasky@usf.edu
Phone: (813) 974-2311
Office: MUS 326
British pianist/composer, Simon Lasky, relocated to the U.S in 2018 on the award of a Fellowship to study with 5 time Grammy nominated jazz composer, Chuck Owen, at The University of South Florida. Simon’s composition ‘Close To Ecstasy’ won the 2018 Ivors Composer Award in the Jazz Composition for Small Ensemble category. His London band, The Simon Lasky Group, released two albums of Simon’s compositions on 33Jazz Records performing at London’s leading jazz venues. BBC radio described ‘Close To Ecstasy’ as “a joyous exuberant piece, brilliantly crafted on all levels, and with great textural and melodic writing.”
Simon's third album as a leader - 'For The Dreamers' by Simon Lasky Group - was released in April 2024 on U.K. jazz label Ubuntu Music. The album features Simon's core band of leading jazz performers from the Tampa Bay scene + guest appearances from renowned U.K. jazz artists. It has received rave reviews and extensive radio play in Europe and NPR radio play in the U.S. 'For The Dreamers' has been nominated for two 2024 Creative Loafing 'Best of The Bay' awards.
Simon is currently on Faculty in the School of Music at The University of South Florida and at Hillsborough Community College in Tampa. His Tampa Bay based U.S Octet, the Simon Lasky Group have performed his compositions in sold out concerts in Miami, Sarasota, St. Pete, Orlando and Tampa. Simon is in demand as a soloist, a sideman and a music director throughout Tampa Bay.