About this Event
It’s 1890: The Civil War is over and a new generation of black Americans is carving out a living and a place for their artistry. In the barrooms and bordellos of St. Louis, New Orleans, Atlantic City – “loafing places”, as some disgruntled townie may have called them – something new and uniquely American is cooking up. Young piano players are melding southern country dances with lowdown blues with European classical, and the result is called Ragtime – a creation which will shape the sound of all American music to come.
The story of ragtime is the story of our country: colorful, thrilling, tragic, infuriating, inspiring. Los Angeles pianist Eve Elliot will introduce you to some of our story’s heroes – and villains – and offer a glimpse into their lives, their worlds, and of course their music. Expect plenty of hilarity and vaudevillian antics as we delve into questions like: Who kidnapped Fats Waller? Why did Jelly Roll Morton own so many suits? How did Scott Joplin uphold his artistic vision amid a slew of rejection? What does “funky butt” mean?
Embrace the duality of this elevated art form being inextricably linked with the underworld of vice. Surrender to the “weird and intoxicating effects” of delicious live ragtime and stride piano. Celebrate the lives of these pioneers, from the highs to the lows – from the national fame and fistfuls of hundred dollar bills, to the alcoholism and fatal venereal disease; and their music which traveled from the 10-cent whorehouses to Carnegie Hall.
Friday 4/11, 7pm
$10
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Yard Theater, 4319 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, United States
USD 12.51
