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, has accompanied Kathryn Crosby in various cabaret shows, and counts Madeleine Peyroux among his many unwitting fans.
Contact: rick@rickcarlson.net
The pianism of Rick Carlson references the stride-style wizardry of Waller and James P. Johnson. A first-rate solo pianist.
UPCOMING SHOWS:
April 25 & 26:
with Arne Fogel
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club
May 9:
with BluLuna
Big River Theatre
May 10:
The Great American Songbook Laughs
with Maud Hixson
The Dunsmore Jazz Room
Crooners Supper Club
May 16 & 17:
with Colleen Raye
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club
May 23 & 24:
with Dorothy Doring
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club
May 25:
Pillars of the Great American Songbook:
Jerome Kern
with Maud Hixson
Saint Albert the Great
May 30 & 31:
with Arne Fogel
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club
Promotional photo credits: Paul Irmiter
Top photo with teacup:
Ann Marsden
Calendar photo:
Kathy Tauer