Dick Twardzik

American jazz pianist and composer. Debuted at 14, performed with Serge Chaloff and studied with his piano teacher mother, Madame (Margaret) Chaloff. Also played with Herb Pomeroy, Charlie Mariano, Charlie Parker, Sonny Stitt and others. Solo performances and recordings in 1954. In 1955, with Chet Baker on a European tour; died from a heroin overdose in a Paris hotel.