Christian Sands

Introduction to Christian Sands

Though he really made his debut as leader at thirteen on 'Footprints' (Stanza, 2002), Sands' growth has been exponential. 'Be Water' is his latest giant step forward, encompassing not only our shared experience and imagination but our humanity too, and that is a triumph no matter what age you are or find yourself in," states ALL ABOUT JAZZ (2021 Album Review of 'Be Water').

Critical Acclaim

"In addition to being a technically adroit, harmonically sophisticated player, Sands is one of the most profoundly rhythmic young pianists in jazz today," says DOWNBEAT MAGAZINE. "Christian Sands is an extraordinarily complete musician. It isn't just the quality of his playing, although he has the most deft and sensitive touch at the keys..." states the LONDON JAZZ NEWS. "Sands, 34, is a fabulously gifted instrumentalist, a piano protege of Dr. Billy Taylor, Geri Allen, Jason Moran, and Vijay Iyer..." raves the BOSTON GLOBE.

Award Nominations and Recognition

5x-GRAMMY® Nominated Jazz Pianist & Composer CHRISTIAN SANDS was nominated for a 2021 GRAMMY® Award for "Best Instrumental Composition" for his album 'Be Water'. Wynton Marsalis once called Sands a "jazz star of the future," and that future has arrived. Christian is an emerging jazz force. His abundant piano technique perfectly matches his conception, accomplishing a much deeper musical goal: a fresh look at the entire language of jazz.

Musical Style and Background

Whether it's stride, swing, bebop, progressive, or fusion, Sands develops the past while providing unusual & stimulating vehicles for the present...and for the future. Prior to leading his own band, Sands was a member of Christian McBride's Inside Straight at 20 years old. He toured throughout the world with McBride and their 2013 CD release, 'Out Here', received a GRAMMY® Nomination for "Best Jazz Instrumental Album". Sands has also shared the stage with jazz luminaries Wynton Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, Jason Moran, Terence Blanchard, among many others.