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:
June 1:
with Arne Fogel
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club
June 8:
with BluLuna
The Dunsmore Jazz Room
Crooners Supper Club
June 13:
with Colleen Raye
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club
June 14:
Mancini 101: The Moods of Mancini
with Maud Hixson
The Dunsmore Jazz Room
Crooners Supper Club
June 19:
Waltz For Debbie:
A Juneteenth Tribute To Debbie Duncan
with Dennis Spears, Judi Vinar
and the Wolverines Quartet
Dakota
June 21:
Twin Cities Jazz Festival
with Maud Hixson
Episcopal Homes
June 22:
Pillars of the Great American Songbook:
Irving Berlin
with Maud Hixson
Saint Albert the Great
Promotional photo credits: Paul Irmiter
Top photo with teacup:
Ann Marsden
Calendar photo:
Kathy Tauer