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Jazz Pianist John Eaton, Champion of Great American Songbook, Dies at 91

other · 2026-05-27

John Eaton, a jazz pianist celebrated for his advocacy of the Great American Songbook, has died at 91. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he recorded albums for the Chiaroscuro label, performed at the White House for Nancy Reagan, delighted audiences at Wolf Trap, and maintained a long association with the Smithsonian Institution, where he delivered song-filled lectures on American music broadcast nationwide.

Key facts

  • John Eaton was a jazz pianist and evangelist for the Great American Songbook.
  • He died at age 91.
  • His career spanned more than six decades.
  • He recorded albums for the Chiaroscuro label.
  • He took requests from Nancy Reagan at the White House.
  • He performed at Wolf Trap.
  • He had a long-running association with the Smithsonian Institution.
  • He delivered song-filled lectures on American music broadcast around the country.

Entities

Artists

  • John Eaton

Institutions

  • Chiaroscuro label
  • Smithsonian Institution
  • The Washington Post

Locations

  • White House
  • Wolf Trap

Sources