During his brief 39 years, “Fats” Waller was known as one of the most skillful and effervescent composers and entertainers in the history of American music. Jerry and Kara Noble will trace Waller’s career from his early days as a church musician and theater organist to his reign as a King of Stride Piano. His loping left hand and virtuosic, finger-busting right hand were “Fats” trademarks. No one was more revered in Harlem “cutting contests,” where pianists strove to outdo one another in improvisatory glory. The Nobles will perform famous Waller tunes and explore the twists and turns of the musician’s life, his prodigious talent, freewheeling style and his impact on contemporary American music.

Pianist Clifton “Jerry” Noble is a sought-after musical collaborator who performs across a wide range of genres. His original compositions and arrangements have been played by choral and instrumental ensembles and soloists around the world. For nearly 30 years, Jerry performed with the late jazz clarinetist, Bob Sparkman. He also has written classical music features and reviews for the Springfield Republican and programs for local concert series. Bassist Kara Noble is a professional writer, editor and production designer. She is also president of the Tuesday Morning Music Club.