Peter Nero, the concert pianist, born Bernard Nierow, who soared to popularity in the 1960s with a swinging hybrid of classics and jazz and kept the beat for nearly six decades with albums, club and television dates, and segues into conducting pops orchestras, died on July 6 in Eustis, FL. He was 89.

Mr. Nero appeared with Frank Sinatra, Mel Tormé, Andy Williams, Johnny Mathis and other headliners; released 72 albums; conducted the Philly Pops for 34 years, and delivered a mix of jazz and classics to generations of fans. In 1979, Mr. Nero was named musical director and player-conductor of the Philly Pops. Audiences marveled at his ability, standing up to play the piano with one hand while conducting the orchestra with the other. He also conducted orchestras in Tulsa, Washington, South Florida, St.; Louis and other cities, often performing 100 concerts a year, The New York Times said.