Jon Dahlander’s original piano solos have been described as “astonishingly graceful” that “soothe and enchant for the sheer and seemingly effortless joy of it.” Musically, he draws upon influences that include 70s pop, rock, jazz, classical music and hints of gypsy folk. His music is inspired by emotions he experiences every day.

Jon grew up in Dallas as a fan of the Beatles and began taking an interest in the piano in high school. From 1995-2000, Jon recorded 3 volumes of CDs titled Piano Landscapes for Dallas-based indie label Carpe Diem Records.

His 4th CD, Songs for Smiler McGee, comes after a 17-year break. In between, Jon and his wife experienced the joy, challenges, triumphs and ultimately pain of raising—and losing—a medically fragile child. Jared, who was born with a rare genetic syndrome, died days before his 14th birthday. The songs on “Smiler McGee” (one of Jared’s nicknames) are, for the most part, songs created as a form of catharsis that reflect Jon’s family’s journey.