BIO

David Warren Langley is an internationally recognised jazz pianist, researcher, educator, and music teacher whose musical journey began at the age of 7. His early fascination with the piano set the stage for a lifelong commitment to mastering the instrument, leading him to achieve his Grade 8 ABRSM classical piano certification by the age of 16. His academic path reflects his dedication to both performance and music education:

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• Diploma in Jazz and Popular Music – UKZN (2011)

• BPracMus Honours – UKZN (2014)

• Postgraduate Certificate in Education – Mancosa (2022)

• BA Honours (2nd Honours degree) – UKZN (2024)

• Master’s in Performance/Music Therapy – Currently pursuing, researching the effects of tuning frequencies on human perception.

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David’s unique playing style blends jazz, classical, and popular music, characterised by fluid hand and wrist movements that bring a distinctive touch to his performances. His remarkable ability to interpret and improvise allows him to play a song after only a brief listen, making him a sought-after performer in both solo and ensemble settings.

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As an artist, David records under the name "davdthepianist," with five studio releases that weave his Creole heritage into jazz-infused musical storytelling. He also leads The Modern Jazz Trio, an ensemble known for reimagining contemporary hits through jazz, soul, funk, reggae, and fusion styles.

Beyond performance, David is deeply engaged in music research, particularly the exploration of 432 Hz tuning and its psychological and physiological effects on listeners. His Harmonic Resonance Theory (HRT) investigates how frequencies influence perception, emotion, and well-being, with a focus on proving that 432 Hz resonates more harmonically with the human body compared to 440 Hz. His research has led him to collaborate with quantum physicists, psychiatrists, and musicians to uncover the deeper impact of tuning frequencies.

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David has performed for esteemed figures, including King Goodwill Zwelithini, President Nelson Mandela, President Jacob Zuma, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Doha, Qatar. His international performances span Europe, the UAE, and beyond, with an extensive repertoire that bridges traditional jazz and experimental soundscapes.

As an educator, David is a dedicated music teacher, shaping the next generation of musicians. He has developed an innovative approach to piano learning, detailed in his book "Pianotailor Book One", which has been adapted into a Udemy course. His teachings emphasize self-awareness in musical development, empowering students to discover their own expressive voice.

David’s journey is one of continuous exploration, blending performance, research, and education to push the boundaries of sound and human connection. You can find his albums, singles, and EPs on all major streaming platforms, and follow his work on social media @pianotailor.