Ted Gioia is an acclaimed American jazz critic, music historian, and pianist, renowned for his extensive contributions to the study of music. He has authored 11 books, including "The History of Jazz" and "Delta Blues," both recognized by the "New York Times" as notable books of the year. His works explore the cultural and social dimensions of music, establishing him as a leading authority in the field.
Gioia's scholarship extends to his influential trilogy on the social history of music—"Work Songs," "Healing Songs," and "Love Songs"—each honored with the ASCAP Deems Taylor Award. Educated at Oxford University and Stanford’s Graduate School of Business, he has also served on the faculty of Stanford University. Praised for his insightful analysis and engaging prose, Gioia is celebrated as one of the foremost music historians of his generation, offering a profound understanding of music's evolution and impact.