Pianist Bill Mays’ career as a professional musician spans the last 60 years and includes a multitude of musical endeavors. Following four years as a bandsman in the U.S. Navy Bill spent 15 years as a session player in Hollywood studios. In 1984 he relocated to New York City, firmly establishing himself as an in-demand sideman and leader of his own ensembles. He has worked with jazz legends Benny Golson, Shelly Manne, Red Mitchell, Gerry Mulligan, Bud Shank, Frank Sinatra, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Sarah Vaughan, and Phil Woods. His many recordings as a leader (solo, duo, trio, and sextet) are well-documented on the Chiaroscuro, Concord, DMP, Palmetto, Steeplechase, and Sunnyside record labels. A prolific composer and arranger, Mays has written extended suites for bass, flute, woodwind septet, and pieces for big bands and orchestras (New York Philharmonic, Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, Turtle Creek Chorale, WDR Big Band, U.S. Air Force Airmen Of Note).