Richard Twardzik

Richard Henryk Twardzik (April 30, 1931 in Danvers, Massachusetts, United States – October 21, 1955 in Paris, France) was an American jazz pianist, known for bebop, who worked in Boston for the bulk of his career. He trained in classical piano as a child, and made his professional debut at 14. He was taught by prominent Boston piano teacher Margaret Chaloff, mother of baritone saxophone player Serge Chaloff, in whose group Twardzik recorded, in addition to one led by Charlie Mariano. Twardzik also worked with Charlie Parker on several occasions, toward the end of Parker's life when he was performing locally. Twardzik also played professionally with Lionel Hampton, Chet Baker, and Serge Chaloff. He recorded with both Baker and Chaloff in 1954 and 1955.Twardzik became addicted to heroin as a teenager. He died from a heroin overdose, while on a European tour with Chet Baker.