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:
NOVEMBER 1 and 2:
Afterglow with Arne Fogel
Maggie’s Lounge
at Crooners Supper Club
NOVEMBER 9:
The Last 50 Years of the Great American Songbook with Maud Hixson
The Dunsmore Room
at Crooners Supper Club
NOVEMBER 8 and 9:
Afterglow with Charmin Michelle
Maggie’s Lounge
at Crooners Supper Club
NOVEMBER 14:
BluLuna
The Dunsmore Room
at Crooners Supper Club
NOVEMBER 15 and 16:
Afterglow with Judi Vinar
Maggie’s Lounge
at Crooners Supper Club
NOVEMBER 20:
Swing Dance with Charmin Michelle
Eagles Club
NOVEMBER 22 and 23:
Afterglow with Dorothy Doring
Maggie’s Lounge
at Crooners Supper Club
NOVEMBER 29 and 30:
Afterglow with Colleen Raye
Maggie’s Lounge
at Crooners Supper Club
NOVEMBER 30:
Holiday Shows
at Heights Theater
Promotional photo credits: Paul Irmiter
Top photo with teacup:
Ann Marsden
Calendar photo:
Kathy Tauer