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.

Howard Reich

Chicago Tribune

UPCOMING SHOWS:

January 30:
BluLuna
The Dunsmore Jazz Room
Crooners Supper Club

January 31 and February 1:
with Katie Gearty
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club

February 1:
Love You Madly:
An Ellington and Strayhorn Valentine
with Maud Hixson

The Dunsmore Jazz Room
Crooners Supper Club

February 4:
BluLuna
MetroNome

February 7 and 8:
with Judi Vinar
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club

February 14:
Sweethearts Shows on
Valentine’s Day
with Maud Hixson
and four other musical couples

Crooners Supper Club

February 21 and 22:
with Colleen Raye
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club

February 27:
Remembering Irving Berlin
with Arne Fogel

The Dunsmore Room
Crooners Supper Club

February 28 and March 1:
with Charmin Michelle
Maggie’s Piano Lounge
Crooners Supper Club

Promotional photo credits: Paul Irmiter

Top photo with teacup:
Ann Marsden

Calendar photo:
Kathy Tauer