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:
October 2:
with Geoff Jones
Maggie’s Piano Lounge (Crooners)
October 6:
Pennies From Heaven
with Mick Sterling & Cate Fierro & the Wolverines
Mancini’s
October 10:
The Way You Look Tonight
with Arne Fogel
The Dunsmore Jazz Room (Crooners)
October 12:
Betsy-Tacy Convention
with Maud Hixson
Mankato, MN
October 18:
She Said/She Said: Classic Women Songwriters
with Maud Hixson
The Dunsmore Jazz Room (Crooners)
October 23:
with Geoff Jones
Maggie’s Piano Lounge (Crooners)
October 24:
with Colleen Raye
Maggie’s Piano Lounge (Crooners)
October 31:
with Colleen Raye
Maggie’s Piano Lounge (Crooners)
Promotional photo credits: Paul Irmiter
Top photo with teacup:
Ann Marsden
Calendar photo:
Kathy Tauer