Cooper-Moore, born Gene Y. Ashton on August 31, 1946, is a pioneering American jazz pianist, composer, and instrument builder based in New York City. Renowned for his work in free jazz and avant-garde genres, Cooper-Moore is celebrated for his innovative approach to music, both as a performer and as a designer of unique musical instruments. His compositions and improvisations are a testament to his deep roots in the Piedmont musical tradition, blending it with his avant-garde sensibilities. With a career spanning decades, Cooper-Moore continues to captivate audiences with his distinctive sound and creative genius, making him a standout figure in the world of contemporary jazz.