Doug Archerd

Doug Archerd is an amateur keyboard improvisationist living in the Pacific Northwest of the U.S. He began playing piano at the age of 5 and studied classical piano for 8 years before abandoning formal study in favor of extemporaneous improvisation.

His music is an eclectic blend of jazz, blues, rock, and classical (he despises the term 'New Age' but finds most of his keyboard meanderings fall loosely into the category). His primary influences include Keith Jarrett, Keith Emerson, Greg Rollie (Santana/Journey), and Joni Mitchell's piano work.

While some of his works have drums or percussion added, most of the recordings are single, unrepeatable takes, with all the attendant flaws and slips to be expected from such a method. He often is just as surprised as the audience by what emerges.