Jordan Rudess conjures ethereal soundscapes with ROLI Piano and Airwave
Redefinining keyboard performance with Spatial Expression at NAMM 2025
Few musicians in the world of progressive rock and beyond have had as profound an impact on keyboard performance as Jordan Rudess. Known for his boundless creativity, jaw-dropping technical prowess, and insatiable thirst for innovation, Rudess has cemented his place as one of the greats of progressive keyboard playing. Whether stunning audiences as a core member of Dream Theater, collaborating with legendary artists, or pushing the boundaries of musical expression through cutting-edge technology, Rudess continues to redefine what it means to be a modern keyboardist.
Watch as Rudess gives a breathtaking performance at NAMM 2025, where he brings the future of keyboard artistry to life with ROLI Piano and Airwave.
A classically trained prodigy, Rudess was recognized early for his extraordinary talents, earning a place at the Juilliard School’s Pre-College division. While his foundation in classical music is undeniable, his passion for sonic exploration led him to progressive rock, fusion, and electronic music. His rise to fame began in earnest when he joined Dream Theater in 1999, a move that solidified his reputation as a transformative force in progressive metal. Beyond Dream Theater, Rudess has built an impressive solo career, crafting albums that explore a wide array of musical landscapes, and collaborations with the likes of Liquid Tension Experiment, Steven Wilson, and Tony Levin. But what truly sets him apart is his unwavering commitment to the future of music technology.
A pioneer in keyboard innovation using sampling and synthesizers, Rudess has been at the forefront of integrating groundbreaking instruments into his performances. His fascination with expressive digital instruments and his mastery of their ability to convey microtonal bends, fluid pitch transitions, and multi-dimensional expressiveness, showcases a new era of keyboard performance, one that bridges the gap between the traditional and the futuristic.
Demonstrating not only his staggering technique but also his visionary approach to sound design and musical storytelling, Rudess continues to inspire musicians and fans alike. By embracing new technologies while maintaining his deep-rooted musicality, he proves that the evolution of musical creativity has no limits.
