What is jazz pianist Brubeck’s first name?, jazz pianist Brubeck’s first name is Dave. Dave Brubeck was a noted American jazz pianist and composer known for his innovative style and the popular Dave Brubeck Quartet. He was born on December 6, 1920 and passed away on December 5, 2012. Brubeck’s music had a great impact on the jazz world and his playing style and compositions are still admired by jazz lovers around the world to this day.