America in the Key of Black

Artist Biography

Dimitri Nassar is a pianist, composer, and educator with a lifelong dedication to jazz and music education. Born in East Cleveland, Ohio, he began playing piano at the age of five, studying at the Cleveland Music School Settlement and the Cleveland Institute of Music under jazz educator Cliff Habian. He later earned degrees in music education from South Carolina State University and Anderson University. Dimitri is a National Board Certified Music Educator.

A celebrated musician, Dimitri was inducted into the South Carolina State University Jazz Hall of Fame in 1995. His trio has performed at prestigious events such as the DC Jazz Fest, the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and the Congressional Black Caucus. He was also a finalist in the 2009 Chick Webb Jazz Competition.

As an educator, Dimitri has trained over 1,000 pianists, mentoring students who have gone on to prestigious music programs. In 2022, he founded Crescent Piano Studio, providing instruction to students of all levels. He also serves as the Executive Director of Black Keys Matter Incorporated, a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating the contributions of African and African American pianists.