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:
July 9:
Bayfield Summer Concert
with Pick-A-Rib Three
Bayfield, WI
July 10:
Love Noir: Songs for Seasoned Lovers
with Charmin Michelle
The Dunsmore Jazz Room
Crooners Supper Club
July 12:
MinneBal
with Pick-A-Rib Three
July 15:
The 1960s Great American Songbook
with Maud Hixson
Wells Public Library
July 20:
Pillars of the Great American Songbook:
George & Ira Gershwin
with Maud Hixson
Saint Albert the Great
July 23:
The Last 50 Years of the Great American Songbook
with Maud Hixson
Thompson Park, West Saint Paul
July 25 & 26:
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
with Arne Fogel
Crooners Supper Club
Promotional photo credits: Paul Irmiter
Top photo with teacup:
Ann Marsden
Calendar photo:
Kathy Tauer