Born in Brooklyn and educated in Boston, Kenny Werner studied jazz piano history that ranged from James P. Johnson to the free and fusion players. Coming to New York, he performed with the Mel Lewis Orchestra, John Abercrombie, Lee Konitz, and Joe Lovano. He was also accompanist and musical director for Broadway star Betty Buckley. Werner led several piano trios in mainstream and post-bop styles, but in 2007 Blue Note released the brilliant LAWN CHAIR SOCIETY, wherein he included the influences of fusion, funk, and electronic music alongside his characteristic lush lyricism.