A Remarkable Musical Journey

An award-winning pianist since a very early age, Ray was educated in classical performance as well as jazz composition/arranging, and possesses a bachelor's degree in commercial music.

Ray built his musical career in New York as one of the area's premiere go-to musicians for recording sessions and live performances of all kinds. Over the years, his musical journey has taken him to concert halls, performance venues, stadium and arena tours, as well as the most intimate of private events (his favorite setting). As a composer and arranger, he has written and performed some of Madison Avenue's most memorable ad campaigns for television and radio.

With literally thousands of engagements to his credit - both as solo performer and with ensembles, Ray also possesses a vast repertoire of great American jazz standards and pop classics, played in a style that is uniquely his own, demonstrating great command of his instrument and great respect for the essence of the music.

Now residing in Southern California, Ray is available for wedding ceremonies and receptions, dinner and cocktail parties, holiday events and fine dining establishments - helping hosts of all kinds provide great experiences and lasting memories for their guests and themselves.

Ready to hire a pianist for your wedding, party, event or venue? Contact us here.

TESTIMONIALS

"Ray was absolutely wonderful when he played our wedding - extremely warm, flexible, professional and accommodating, and he is a wonderfully skilled pianist. We cannot recommend Ray enough."

Cole G., Laguna Niguel, CA

"I would highly recommend Ray for any event and I know all of my guests felt the same way. Thank you."
- Chris F, San Diego, CA

"Ray played the perfect mix of music for our daughter’s Mad Men themed engagement cocktail party. We’d recommend him without hesitation and hope he can return to play for us again soon."
-Rich C, Pauma Valley, CA

"Thank you again Ray for adding that special touch we were hoping for on our special day!"
-Linda G, Coronado, CA

"Wish I could give 10 stars. RECOMMENDED!"
-Clifford W, Palm Springs, CA

"Friendly, great catalog of music, entertaining and very talented. I would definitely recommend Ray and hire him again myself."
-Thomas B, San Marcos, CA

The Music

Ray's musical style can best be defined as elegant, upscale and refined. While he possesses a vast repertoire, one can hear his true appreciation for classic American standards made popular by the greats - Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington and many others of the genre. Add top pop selections from the 60's through today, smooth jazz, colorful ambiences, R&B grooves and creative interpretations of songs by a wide range of artists from Michael Jackson to Sting, Jimi Hendrix and more and you'll truly appreciate Ray's musical artistry.

The holidays represent Ray's favorite (and busiest) time of the year, celebrating the joy of the season with colorful and moving interpretations of both traditional and contemporary classics that keep him returning to families and corporate clients year after year.

Ray is also frequently asked to sing, his vocal style and tone best described as a cross between Nat King Cole, Chet Baker and Kenny Rankin - very smooth and inviting. His vocal talents are really shine when interpreting jazz standards in both ballad and swing styles.

All performances Copyright Ray van Straten

7642 Granja Vista Del Rio, Eastvale, CA 92880