Mr. Wider studied piano as a child, but when he first heard George Shearing he knew jazz was for him. He later studied piano with two fine local musicians. Unfortunately, during service in the USAF he had no access to a piano except the one in the rec-room. Later, he played his first gig - New Years Eve! - at an Illinois club. After college, he inherited a beat up old upright from his aunt and that gift rekindled his love of playing jazz. During earlier times he began teaching (and still does). He honed his skills playing supper clubs, country clubs, and corporate functions in Silicone Valley and the SF Bay Area. His concerts include The San Jose Jazz Festival and at Harrah's Club of Reno.