Ray Chew, born September 7, 1958, is an American keyboardist, arranger, and music director. A child prodigy, he studied at the Juilliard School, the Harlem School of the Arts, and the Third Street Music School Settlement before beginning his professional career with Melba Moore. At 19, he became music director for Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson. Chew has worked as an arranger or pianist for artists including Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, Roberta Flack, and Donny Hathaway. He later served as music director for American Idol and Dancing with the Stars, while also leading music for major televised events, including the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.