As is often true of people from musical families, Rave was immersed in all forms of music from birth. The son of Charles Tesar, well- known trumpeter and music educator, and Lynn Tesar, a proficient pianist in her own right, Rave was schooled in all forms of music and on several different instruments. Ultimately, he chose to express his virtuosity on the piano, his first and greatest love. All of these early experiences became the foundation of his tremendous musical versatility.

Early in his career Rave established himself in the New York jazz scene. He became noted for both his adept keyboard technique and the spirited musicality of his improvisations. Over the years he was a member of several successful groups. Most recently he has invested much composition and performance time in the group, Avenues, which he founded with bassist, Mark Bernstein, over a decade ago. For Rave, jazz is fundamental. It is the soul of his artistry.

Over the years Rave's ventures into the pop music world have been extensive. In the late 1980's he was a member of the alternative group, Tirez Tirez. Promoting two album releases for IRS records, he toured with the group throughout the United States and Canada. Another pop affiliation was a North American tour with the Shirelles. More recently, his keyboard work was featured on Nicolette Street's CD, Taboo. In 1990, Rave joined Annie Haslam's Renaissance. Worldwide performances, album releases, and television appearances have showcased Rave as both a compelling player and a talented composer.

As a composer, Rave has been prolific. Beyond his credits for original work in jazz, pop, and alternative groups, Rave has composed over five hundred published titles and tracks for both film and television. From jingles to feature length scores, he has combined his mastery of electronic sound technology with a broad knowledge of musical idioms, creating custom tailored work to suit each project uniquely.

Rave's total involvement in music also includes the ownership of Studio X, a professional recording studio. Active in this enterprise since 1981, Rave has produced, engineered, composed for, and performed on hundreds of recordings for artists in every musical venue. His expertise in every aspect of sound production, along with his well recognized musicianship, keep Rave on the forefront of an ever evolving music industry.

In addition to all his other accomplishments, Rave served as an educator, composer, and performer on the public television series, Exploring the World of Music. The series, which was recently released by PBS, utilized the expertise of established artists to probe the meaning and mechanics of music.

Jazz artist, composer, performer, producer, Rave's musical world is the core of his life. As he continues to forge new paths of musical expression and explore new collaborations, he enriches the realm of music for professional players and listening audiences alike.