The book opens with a short history of the instrument and an historical survey of jazz pianists beginning in 1900. What follows are lively interviews with 27 pianists who have contributed to the continuing history of jazz piano. Although most of the interviews appeared previously in magazines published between 1974 and 1979, those articles have been expanded and updated. The pianists represented cover a wide range of styles and influences and include Teddy Wilson, Bill Evans, Dave Brubeck, Keith Jarrett, Paul Bley, and Randy Weston.

Len Lyons is the author of The 101 Best Jazz Albums, a listener’s guide to jazz on records. He has produced records, written liner notes, and contributed articles to many publications. He studied piano with Lennie Tristano.