Tom Roberts

Tom Roberts is a leading exponent of early jazz piano. He's played everywhere from New York’s Carnegie Hall and the Tonight Show to the major jazz clubs in the French Quarter.

 

 

Projects

 

Charlie Chaplin Silent Picture Show

Tom has written new original scores for many Chaplin films, including The Pawn Shop and Kid Auto Races. He has performed alongside these films everywhere from the Hollywood Theater to Heinz Hall, and you can contact him to have him perform for you as well.

Learn more about the Show
Red Beans & Rice Combo

Red Beans & Rice Combo

The Combo features the world celebrated early jazz stride pianist, Tom Roberts on piano, whistling, & vocals, along with Dave Klug on drums and his custom-built “Kluger Soundboard,” and Wayno on vocals, harmonica, & ukulele.

Check out the Combo

Nosferatu

For the 100th anniversary of F.W. Murnau’s Nosferatu, the Pittsburgh Silent Film Festival asked Tom to compose an original score for this legendary silent film. Released in 1922, Nosferatu is renowned for its expressionist style, particularly its striking use of light and shadow. Count Orlok's looming silhouette on the wall remains one of the most iconic images in film history. Tom’s score enhances the film as a whole, heightening its eerie atmosphere and bringing new life to its timeless visuals.

more about Nosferatu

Sherlock Junior

Discover Tom Roberts’ original score for Buster Keaton’s Sherlock Junior, a vibrant and playful composition that breathes new life into this silent comedy classic. Learn about the creative process behind Tom's work, and see how his music captures the spirit of Keaton’s imaginative storytelling while enhancing the film’s timeless humor.

more about Sherlock Junior
scratch.jpg

The Hot Club of Pittsburgh

Music played directly from the original 78 rpm recordings on vintage equipment and sometimes on modern turntables. Listen in via Zoom!

Keep up with the Hot Club

Allegheny City Ragtime Orchestra

The nine to eleven piece professional ensemble was founded in 2013 by Tom. This group is available for gigs in the greater Pittsburgh area.

Listen to the Orchestra

With Rick Sebak

Tom has composed a range of music to accompany productions by Pittsburgh legend Rick Sebak. Hear him on Nebby: Rick Sebak’s Tales of Greater Pittsburgh.

Browse the videos
 

Transcriptions

From Dr. John to Fats Waller, Tom has a wide range of transcriptions available.

Browse transcriptions

The Aviator

In 2003 Tom was one of the arranger/transcribers for Martin Scorsese's blockbuster film The Aviator a bio-pic about Howard Hughes featuring an all-star cast.

Hear The Aviator story

©2024 Tom Roberts  
tom@tomrobertspiano.com