The Excitement of Jazz-America's Music

The Excitement of Jazz—America’s Music

This program features exciting jazz performance as well as interesting commentary and explanation about the jazz tunes and styles which are played and jazz in general. If you like jazz, you’ll love this presentation. If you don’t like jazz, you’ll be surprised how much you enjoy the music. You’ll walk out of the program thoroughly entertained as well as a bit educated.

What’s the big deal about jazz? It contains excitement and freedom which are missing in other styles of music. The most prevalent styles of music studied in American university’s today are Classical and jazz. If you are a jazz lover, this program is right down your alley. If you’re not, be careful. You just might be surprised at how much you like this presentation. I guarantee that you won’t be bored.

Ron Bickel (Biography)

Ron has had a long and varied career as a professional pianist. He has performed in country clubs and hotels throughout the Pittsburgh area. His resume extends from Heinz Hall and the Benedum Theater to private homes and family picnics. His repertoire is very large and includes standards from the Great American Songbook, showtunes, Classic rock, Motown, popular songs and some Classical pieces. Ron can play any tunes which he can hum, so requests are usually no problem.

Ron is an Adjunct Professor of Piano at Duquesne University. He has a Masters Degree in music. Ron has played at premier venues of Pittsburgh, including Heinz Hall, Benedum Center, Carnegie Music Hall, Syria Mosque, Stanley Theater, on radio, television and movies. Mr. Bickel has performed with such diverse artists as Mel Torme, Rodney Dangerfield, Michel LeGrande, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Liberace, The Skyliners (featured on their hit record, “Since I Fell For You”), Billy Eckstine, Glenn Miller Orchestra (Ray McKinley), Little Anthony and the Imperials, Mickey Rooney, Jimmy Dorsey Band, The Flamingos, The Modernairs and Bobby Vinton.

Merrymakers Duo/Trio

The Merrymakers Jazz Trio plays what we call “happy music” --- traditional jazz (Dixieland and Benny Goodman style jazz) as well as some more current styles. While people who love jazz love this group; even better, people who don’t love jazz are also very enthusiastic about our music. This lively music is infectious to audiences of all ages. We have played for many and varied types of events --- brunches, dances, entertainment, background music, concerts. The group is very entertaining without being overbearing. This is not a thrown-together group with revolving personnel, as many groups are today. We have been together for over 20 years with the same personnel. We are sure you will hear the difference---  first class all the way.