BIOGRAPHY

As a child of seven, Copeland's fascination with music began while watching a pianist on TV. He blocked out everything that was going on except that pianist. He remembers thinking that "if someone could only show me, I could learn to do that." Thus began his education with the piano. This also set in motion his roots in gospel, which he achieved from playing in church for thirteen years. This would eventually tie together with classical training to create his unique style as a jazz innovator. His ultimate influence would become Beethoven, who used the piano as an instrument to imitate the complete orchestra. Although Copeland's formal education became complete with a degree from
Florida Atlantic University, he continually strives to learn and acquire musical knowledge.

 

The keyboard is his kingdom. He can appear as a jazz pianist, but he can send his instrument into the pop, rock or classical ends of the spectrum. What makes him outstanding is that he is comfortable in all phases. When Copeland plays, watch his fingers! They dance across the keyboard at a fast, strong pace, then they back off in a soft, graceful and almost quiet serenade that fills the soul with beautiful music.

 

As one music critic said: "He is a special person. He captivates the audience when he plays. He makes it fun. He has phenomenal technique on the piano. He combines mechanical proficiency with spontaneous artistic creativity. Davis can explore the possibilities of any number of tunes, while still remaining in the boundaries of tight musicianship."

 

A standing ovation was the response to Copeland's TV debut on the "Tonight Show." With appearances following on "Good Morning, America," and his own PBS special. In addition to three appearances on ABC's "B.L. Stryker," was his subsequent induction into The International Who's Who in Music. On December 1, 2014, Copeland was inducted into the Las Vegas Entertainers Hall Of Fame. Once again on January 1, 2017 another induction into The International Who's Who in Music. Also, Copeland was presented with the Dream Award on stage at the Sun Coast Hotel in Las Vegas on October 22, 2017. 

 

Copeland’s talent has led him to work Second Bill with some incredible musical talents such as Ramsey Lewis, Herbie Mann, Aretha Franklin, Florence Henderson and many more.

 

After one of his performances as Artist-In-Residence with the Florida Symphonic Pops Orchestra, the Maestro said: "Copeland is one of America's foremost symphonic jazz piano innovators. He not only has extensive training in classical performance, but his jazz improvisation capability is in a class by itself."