From the heart of Austin, Texas, Francis McGrath is a pianist and composer whose music bridges the elegance of the past with the vibrancy of the present. Known for his emotive playing style and a knack for weaving stories through sound, Francis blends jazz, blues, classical, and cinematic influences into performances that are as soulful as they are dynamic.
A multi-instrumentalist and seasoned performer, he has played in some of Austin’s most beloved bands, most notably The Greatest American Heroes—the city’s favorite TV theme band—and composed the award-winning soundtrack for the film Station to Station in 2022. His original works, heard on his self-produced albums No Less Days and Trains in the Night, showcase his versatility as both a composer and arranger.
On stage, Francis brings a magnetic presence, shifting effortlessly from delicate, introspective passages to explosive, high-energy runs. His sets are filled with unexpected turns—an old standard reimagined, a modern tune dressed in vintage style, or an original piece that feels like a soundtrack to a film you wish existed.
When Francis sits down at the piano, it’s more than a performance—it’s a conversation between artist and audience, rich with emotion, humor, and a touch of Austin’s signature charm.