Van Rentz was born in Hazlehurst, Ga and grew up in a gospel music family. “One my earliest memories is sitting at the piano at 5 years old and playing the gospel hymn How Great Thou Art. I never had any formal music training other than the 9 months when I was in second grade.” Van spent his childhood playing and singing gospel music with his brother, sister, and mother. “I have been very blessed to know since my childhood that playing piano was going to be the way I made my living.”

His musical influences outside of gospel music were mostly Floyd Cramer and Jerry Lee Lewis. He moved to Nashville, Tn when he was 20 years old. After many years of playing clubs, he landed his first artist gig with Tanya Tucker. He then went on to tour with guitar great Steve Wariner.

In 1995, he started working with platinum selling artist, Clay Walker, and has been bandleader for 23 years. “Clay is one of the best vocalist and entertainers in the business. We feel like the best is yet to come. I’ve just started using the MONTAGE 8 on stage. This keyboard is a power house! Great sounds and easy to use in live performances. Thanks Yamaha!”

Check out Van Rentz’ performance – composed entirely on a MONTAGE8: