Dick Hyman’s Ongoing Musical Odyssey

Reporting on Dick Hyman’s multi-faceted career is like inscribing a poem on a pinhead. His autobiography is, in effect, “published” in many audio, video, print and online sources. And it continues as he maintains a daunting creative pace at age 91. This article focuses on highlights from his 25 years in Florida. Some other sources are identified for fans and researchers to access. Dick and Julia Hyman came from New York City to their new Venice, Florida, home in 1989, then added his studio for music and hers for sculpting. He was honored at the Venice Museum and Archives in 2012 with a two-month exhibit. Julia’s works have been frequently displayed at the Venice Art Museum. Last year Dick premiered his Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Venice Symphony at the new performance hall. Dick’s career includes jazz, pop, and “whatever was on the page,” he says. He composed, arranged and directed for recordings, films, radio, and TV shows with a galaxy of famous emcees, singers, and musicians. He is best known as a pianist, also performs on organ, and made a hit recording on a Moog synthesizer. In a video interview by Ed Vinson for the Venice Archives, he recalls being musical director, composing and arranging for twel