Steve
Bourgeois trained as a classical pianist. He made the slow transition to jazz during his college
years. His early jazz influences include Oscar Peterson, Andre Previn, and most significantly, his father, Jim Bourgeois,
who is also a jazz pianist. In recent years, Steve has been inspired by the solo improvisations of Keith Jarrett.
Steve has developed a lyrical touch that is unique in the jazz
world. He has taken the "dolce" touch developed from years of performing Mozart, and incorporated it into his jazz
playing. His style combines melodic clarity with abundant inner voices that add depth and lyricism to his music. His improvisations
could be described as minimalist, in that they quickly get to the heart of the matter and communicate emotions honestly.
He has recorded three solo piano CDs, including "I Could Write
a Book" (2000), "Out of the Darkness" (2004), and "Presence" (2005). His
ensemble recordings include "Lead Me to Your Truth" (2006), "Symbiotic Groove"
(2004) and "Hide Every Trace of Sadness" (2004) with vocalist Morgan Lindsey, "Jazz Duo"
(2004) with bassist Wyeth Tvenge, and "It Could Happen" (2005) with vocalist Cyndy Duerfeldt
and pianist Jim Bourgeois.