Thomas Gunther

Audiences can expect a tasteful and high-quality musical experience tailored to the atmosphere of the occasion. Whether performing in a jazz club, creating an elegant backdrop for a cocktail reception, or providing entertainment for a private party or corporate event, Thomas strives to create the right mood for every audience, whether they have come for a concert-like listening experience or simply wish to enjoy tasteful and relaxing piano music in the background.

Drawing from a repertoire that includes jazz standards, blues, boogie-woogie, bossa nova, pop classics, and timeless favorites, Thomas adapts the style, energy, and volume of each performance to suit the setting. From relaxed background music to more featured performances, audiences can expect expressive playing, tasteful improvisation, and a wide variety of familiar and beloved songs.

Above all, guests can expect beautiful live music delivered with professionalism, versatility, and a genuine love for the art of piano performance.

Thomas Gunther is a Chicago-based pianist, educator, arranger, and producer with decades of professional experience performing throughout the United States and Europe. Originally from Germany, Thomas established himself as a professional jazz pianist before relocating to Chicago, where he has continued to build a diverse career as a performer, recording artist, producer, and educator.

Known for his tasteful playing, versatility, and professionalism, Thomas performs for jazz clubs, cocktail hours, corporate events, private parties, restaurants, and special occasions. Whether providing elegant background music or a featured performance, his goal is always the same: to create the perfect atmosphere and provide a memorable experience for clients and their guests.

His repertoire spans jazz standards, blues, boogie-woogie, bossa nova, pop classics, and timeless favorites. Comfortable performing both acoustically and with a self-contained setup, Thomas can provide a high-quality keyboard and sound system when needed, including support for speeches and announcements.

In addition to his work as a performer, Thomas serves on the faculty of Columbia College Chicago, where he has taught courses in music production, arranging, and orchestration. His passion for teaching reflects his belief that music is both an art form and a means of bringing people together.

Throughout his career, Thomas has collaborated with many outstanding musicians, including Grammy-nominated trumpeter Orbert Davis, and has appeared with the Chicago Jazz Ensemble under the direction of legendary composer and educator William Russo. His experience includes performances in a wide variety of settings, from intimate clubs and restaurants to private celebrations and corporate events.

Thomas is equally at home performing sophisticated jazz standards, energetic blues and boogie-woogie piano, or relaxed bossa nova and popular favorites. His ability to adapt to the mood and needs of each occasion has made him a favorite with audiences and clients alike.

Professional, reliable, and easy to work with, Thomas is committed to bringing musical excellence and a personal touch to every performance.

Thomas is flexible and can perform either on an acoustic piano provided by the venue or with a complete self-contained setup featuring a premium digital piano and professional sound system.

If you prefer Thomas to perform on your acoustic piano, he will gladly do so, provided the instrument is well-tuned and in good playing condition, with all keys and pedals functioning properly.

As an alternative, Thomas can provide a premium digital piano and professional sound system, allowing clients to enjoy the convenience and flexibility of a complete self-contained setup without the need to arrange for an instrument separately, for a reasonable surcharge.

When the self-contained setup is used, the sound system can also accommodate speeches and announcements. Clients are welcome to connect a phone, tablet, or other media player to provide background music before, after, or between performances.

Performance volume can be adjusted to suit the occasion, from intimate background music to more featured listening experiences. Thomas is happy to work with venue staff, event planners, and clients to ensure that all technical and logistical details are handled smoothly.