RICK CARLSON taught himself to play the piano by studying the vast works of Count Basie and Duke Ellington and capitalizing on a long string of happy accidents. He has also perfected the art of “circular drinking”, whereby he can sip martinis uninterrupted while still playing a cohesive piano solo.
He has been the pianist for the Wolverines Big Band since 1980. He has performed on concert stages in London and New York City, and has appeared with Count Basie drummer Butch Miles, horn stars Warren Vaché, Delfeayo Marsalis, Evan Christopher and Wycliffe Gordon.
His credits as musical director, arranger and pianist include the Guthrie Theater presentation of “Coward’s Women”, the Capri Theater “Legends Series” and in various concert and cabaret presentations internationally. He once opened for Rosemary Clooney, accompanied Kathryn Crosby in various cabaret shows, and counts Madeleine Peyroux among his many unwitting fans.
The pianism of Rick Carlson references the stride-style wizardry of Waller and James P. Johnson. A first-rate solo pianist.
UPCOMING SHOWS:
March 1:
with Dorothy Doring
Maggie’s Piano Lounge (Crooners)
March 7 & 8:
with Katie Gearty
Maggie’s Piano Lounge (Crooners)
March 14:
Arnthology CD Release
with Arne Fogel
The Dunsmore Jazz Room (Crooners)
March 16:
Maud Sings Maud: Songs from the Betsy-Tacy Books by Maud Hart Lovelace
with Maud Hixson
Zoom concert presented by
the Betsy-Tacy Society
March 19:
The Great American Swingbook
with Maud Hixson, Peter Kogan, Gary Raynor
& Sue Orfield
MetroNome
March 22:
Jazz Age Rumpus V
with the Southside Aces
Hook & Ladder
March 28:
Beyond Category:
The Ellington/Strayhorn Songbook
with Maud Hixson
The Dunsmore Jazz Room (Crooners)
Promotional photo credits: Paul Irmiter
Top photo with teacup:
Ann Marsden
Calendar photo:
Kathy Tauer