Joe Giarrusso

Joe Giarrusso is a distinguished composer and pianist whose works have been performed across the globe. His compositions, featured in two published CDs, have graced theaters, private homes, and concert halls in Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and beyond. Notably, his music is currently being performed in Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, China, Malaysia, and Colombia, with a world premiere of his piano concerto scheduled for the Fall of 2026, featuring his collaborator and composition teacher, Dr. Giorgi Latso. Joe is also working on an oratorio for the Coachella Valley Classical Concerts, to premiere in 2025.

 

Joe has studied under renowned teachers, including Dr. Priscilla Pawlicki, head of UCLA’s music program, Dr. Giorgi Latso, and Jose Bornn Jr. His collaborations with Dr. Latso and Anna Ferdova-Latso, as the Latso Piano Duo, have brought his music to audiences throughout Southern California and around the world.

 

Deeply committed to philanthropy, Joe has used his musical talents to support numerous organizations. Proceeds from his concerts have benefitted causes such as the Children Affected by AIDS Foundation, the Palm Springs International Piano Competition, Coachella Valley Repertory Theatre, and the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation, among others.

 

In addition to his musical endeavors, Joe served as President of the Palm Springs International Piano Competition (PSIPC). This triennial competition discovers, promotes, and inspires young classical pianists, offering significant performance and career opportunities alongside community educational outreach.

 

Beyond music, Joe’s career began in the entertainment industry, holding senior roles at CBS Network, Tri-Star Pictures, and HBO Productions, before retiring as Senior Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Entertainment Partners. He holds a BS in Accounting from Le Moyne College and a Master’s in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica.

 

Joe is also a dedicated leader in his community, having served as Nice Chair of the LGBTQ+ Center in Palm Springs and as President of the Coachella Valley Repertory Theatre for seven years.

 

A U.S. Army veteran (1970–1972), Joe Giarrusso continues to channel his creativity, leadership, and compassion into his music and community service, enriching lives both locally and internationally.