Eric Barnhart

For Eric Barnhart, the piano is more than an instrument ? it's home. From the days he began playing by ear on his brother's toy xylophone up through today, no other place has been as inspiring, challenging, or comforting as when his fingers are on the keys. Wherever Eric has found himself over the years ? the rolling fields of the rural Midwest, the clubs and beaches of Miami, the ?New South? of Atlanta or his current home in Greenville, SC ? the piano has been his way of embracing the local culture, absorbing it and making it his own.

The crowds at his performances are never quite sure where their musical journey will carry them next: the sounds of sassy blues from a swanky jazz club; a driving tumbao for the salsa dance floor; a plaintive folk melody drifting off the mountain cabin back-porch, or a dozen other destinations. One thing, however, can be rest assured: it will be worth the trip.

Originally from small-town Iowa, Eric studied at the University of Miami and Florida International University, earning a Bachelor's of Music in Jazz Piano. Eric later moved to Atlanta to serve in the music ministry of a local church. While there, Eric was actively involved in studio sessions as a recording artist, performer, engineer, and producer, working at notable local studios such as Glow In The Dark and Tree Sound as well as his own studio, Circusfrog. Eric had the privilege of performing with several theatrical runs at notable houses including Theatrical Outfit, Actor's Express, and Theatre in the Square. Eric additionally served as worship leader for numerous Christian conferences, events and services for organizations such as Mission To The World, Global Church Advancement, and Latin American Mission.

Eric recently relocated to Greenville, SC and began focusing on small ensemble shows in local and regional venues. He has performed well over 100 shows at arguably Greenville's premiere spot, The Brown Street Club. You can find him performing solo, with his trio, and with several of the Upstate's finest horn players and vocalists at the most prestigious clubs throughout the area. Wherever the road takes Eric next, with his piano along for the ride, home is right there with him.