Alexander Kallao passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Saturday May 23, 2020. Born blind and a child prodigy, Alex was revered as one of the most gifted and renowned pianists of our time. Through the love of his parent’s (Martzi and Irene Kallao) and in addition to his father’s tutelage, Alex overcame many challenges and paved the way for his amazing talent to grow and flourish. Classically trained by the best teachers, including Julius Chajes, Jose Iturbi, Gyorgy Sandor, and Robert Goldsand, this prepared Alex to perform his first of many concerts starting at the tender age of five years old. In addition to his love of classical music Alex found he had a fond passion for Jazz, which lead to an illustrious 60 year career touring North America’s greatest Jazz clubs and performing with some our generation’s Jazz titans: Art Tatum, Oscar Peterson, Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, and Errol Gardner to name a few. Alex was billed as the “the blind piano genius” and “the next Art Tatum” by Time Magazine and was featured in countless news articles, special appearances on radio and TV including, the Tonight Show (three times). He recorded three original albums which earned him 4 stars in Downbeat magazine and many acclaimed write ups. He will be remembered for his unique style of improvisations, blazing speed, rhythmical harmonies and unique style unlike anyone. He was a family man at heart and had a deep love for his children, his extended family, and those who cared for him.
Alex is survived by his Children: Franz, David, Deanna, Michael, and Jeanne. Grandchildren: Allie, Jacob, Marissa, Noah, and great-grandchild Aria, Brothers: Marty and Billy Kallao and dear friend Carol, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and family friends.
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