Don Pullen; Jazz Pianist Known for Improvisational Work

Don Pullen, 53, key jazz pianist known for his improvisations. Recognized as a particularly percussive pianist, Pullen often used the back of his hands or even an elbow to obtain large, hammering chords. A native of Roanoke, Va., Pullen studied at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, N.C., and worked privately with Muhal Richard Abrams. Pullen was also influenced by his cousin, pianist Clyde (Fats) Wright. Mastering the organ as well as the piano, Pullen began his career playing for church choirs. But he quickly segued into jazz in the 1960s, combining his church-practiced power with a blues touch. He worked in New York with Giuseppe Logan. He earned perhaps his widest fame playing for Charles Mingus from 1973 to 1975, recording the major albums “Changes 1” and “Changes 2.” Pullen frequently worked with his own group and appeared with them on television in “Jazz Adventures” and “Black Journal.” In 1979, he and drummer Beaver Harris led a group called 360 Degree Music Experience featuring fellow Mingus alumnus George Adams. Pullen recorded numerous albums, primarily for Blue Note Records. Pullen was a frequent guest artist at music festivals, and found particular popularity in Scandinavian programs. On Saturday in East Orange, N.J., of lymphoma.