A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise money for legendary American (now German-based) pianist, composer, and educator Richie Beirach, who has been fighting life-threatening health issues since the end of 2023. Best known for his five-decade-long collaboration with saxophonist Dave Liebman, and over 400 acclaimed recordings as a leader or sideman with the likes of Stan Getz, Chet Baker, Randy Brecker, Jack DeJohnette, and John Scofield, Beirach’s ongoing health situation has left him struggling with overwhelming medical expenses and unable to work for the foreseeable future.
The following statement is republished with the express permission of its authors:
Dear Friends, Admirers and Supporters of Richie Beirach,
We are reaching out to ask for your support for the renowned jazz pianist Richie Beirach, who is currently facing overwhelming health and financial problems.
Richie has touched countless lives with his music. He has been a dear mentor, friend, teacher, colleague and supporter to so many musicians and now he needs our help to make it through an excruciatingly difficult period.
Richie is struggling with serious health issues that have rendered him unable to perform and led to a severe financial crisis. His medical expenses have piled up, with over €16,000 in outstanding bills and additional costs exceeding €100,000. Despite efforts to secure assistance, the situation remains dire, and Richie is unable to manage these overwhelming financial burdens on his own.
We are organizing a crowdfunding campaign to provide Richie with the financial support he desperately needs. Your generous contributions will help cover his medical bills, daily care expenses, and essential living costs, allowing him to focus on recovery.
Richie has given us so much through his incredible talent and dedication to music. Now is our chance to give back. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference in his life.
Funds are collected by a non-profit, TGR The Green Room, but will be passed on in their entirety to Richie.
Thank you for your generosity and support.
Sincerely,
Regina Litvinova / Charlie Rees / Sidney Corbett / Gregor Huebner / Tobias Frohnhöfer / Heather O’Donnell