(William) „Billy“ Hart – American drummer, composer and educator – born Washington D.C., November 29 1940, performed with The JAZZPAR 2003 Combo featuring Lars Møller, Geri Allen and Buster Williams.

Billy Hart landed his first professional gig at the age of 20 with Shirley Horn. That lasted for three and a half years and established him as a drummer of some repute.
   Like Buster Williams, Billy Hart has collaborated with a veritable hall of fame in jazz: Pharaoh Sanders, Jimmy Smith (1964-66), Wes Montgomery (1966-68), Herbie Hancock's challenging sextet (1969-73), Miles Davis (1972's On the Corner), McCoy Tyner (1973-74), Stan Getz (1974-77), Andrew Hill, Eddie Harris, Charles Lloyd, Toots Thielemans among others. He was a charter member of both The Mingus Dynasty and Quest.
From 1992 Billy Hart has been appointed Assistant Professor of Jazz Percussion at Oberlin Conservatory of Music.
   Mr. Hart has performed on hundreds of recordings. Musicians such as Bill Frisell, Branford Marsalis, Steve Coleman, Dave Liebman, Kenny Kirkland, Kevin Eubanks, Richie Beirach, Dave Holland, Chris Potter and Dave Kikoski are all, profoundly or subtly, products of a Billy Hart ensemble.
   Billy Hart's drumming is powerful. He brings lots of enthusiasm and subtlety, allowing musicians plenty of room. He is a focused, relaxed and flexible player, most at home playing advanced jazz. His style is lyrical and creative and he is a true master of making his instrument an element of the melodic line as well as occupying the chair that is the heartbeat of the band.