Bob Phillips began his love affair with the piano at age seven, and had gone professional by age seventeen. In 1955 he found himself playing piano in New York City’s Greenwich Village. Working the midnight to 3:00 am shift in various clubs by night he worked his way through the Manhattan School of Music during the day.

While in New York, Bob gigged at The Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Gardens, Hotel Astor, The Waldorf Astoria, Birdland, the Village Gate and the Village Vanguard. He spent a year working in the pit of “Promises, Promises” on Broadway and another year at the New York Playboy Club.

Bob spent much of his time at his studio on 46th street where, with a staff of 4 people, Bob ran rehearsals and auditions, wrote special material, and made recordings.
In 1966 Bob traveled to the Far East with the USO. As a pianist and conductor he had the opportunity to work with Guy Mitchell, Linda Lavin, and Gloria Leonard.

By 1971 Bob had tired of the harsh New York winters and headed south to Orlando, Florida where The Walt Disney Company engaged his talent. For the next year and a half Bob worked at Disney World with many acts including, Patti Page, Tex Beneke, Mel Torme and the 4 Freshman.

1973 found Bob in Carmel, California where he began exploring the local music scene. After making the central California coast his home, Bob produced shows and/or played with such artists as Ali Ryerson, Charles Loos, Al Cohn, Stan Getz, Richie Cole and Rebecca Parris.
After being named “Musician of the year” by the Monterey Dixieland Festival, and awarded permanent artist in residence, Bob formed the “Sweet Thursday Jazz Band” in honor of local John Steinbeck’s 100th birthday celebration.

He has performed 5 times at the Monterey Jazz Festival and is currently freelancing around central and northern California.

 

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