Philippe Saisse was born on October 11, 1962, in France. His family originally resided in Marseille, but they later moved to Paris where Philippe was raised. As a child, Philippe showed a natural talent for music and began playing the piano at a young age. His parents recognized his potential and encouraged him to pursue his passion for music.
At the Conservatoire de Paris, Philippe distinguished himself as a talented pianist. His dedication and hard work paid off when he was awarded a scholarship to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. At Berklee, Philippe studied under the guidance of renowned jazz vibraphonist Gary Burton, who became his mentor and played a significant role in shaping his musical style.
After graduating from Berklee, Philippe embarked on a successful career as a keyboardist, producer, and arranger. His unique blend of smooth jazz and New Age music caught the attention of music industry insiders, leading to his nomination for a Grammy Award.
One of the highlights of Philippe's career was when he had the opportunity to perform with legendary rock band The Who at Super Bowl XLIV. His exceptional keyboard skills and musical versatility impressed audiences and critics alike.
In addition to his work with The Who, Philippe was also a regular house band keyboardist for The Sunday Night Band on the NBC late-night music program Sunday Night from 1988 to 1990. His contributions to the show helped solidify his reputation as a top-tier musician in the industry.
Despite his busy schedule and demanding career, Philippe remains close to his family. He credits his parents for instilling in him a love for music and for supporting his music education. Even though they were not musicians themselves, Philippe's parents played a crucial role in nurturing his talent and fostering his musical aspirations.
Throughout his career, Philippe has collaborated with a wide range of artists and musicians. One of his notable collaborations was with Dave Koz & The Kozmos, the house band for Emeril Lagasse's eponymous TV show. Philippe's contributions to the band helped elevate their performance and showcase his exceptional keyboard skills.
Philippe's ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles and genres has made him a sought-after collaborator in the music industry. His innovative approach to music production and arrangement has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and fans alike.
Philippe Saisse's legacy as a talented pianist, producer, and arranger continues to inspire and influence aspiring musicians around the world. His dedication to his craft and his passion for music have set him apart as a true musical virtuoso.
As he continues to push the boundaries of contemporary jazz and New Age music, Philippe's music will undoubtely leave a lasting impact on the music industry for years to come.
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