Bobby van Duesen with Steve Pikal and Tom Andrews

The Prime Time Trio, featuring the engaging and versatile pianist, bassist, and percussionist of the Barbary Coast Dixieland Show Band, will keep toes tapping and hands clapping with traditional jazz, popular songs, and show tunes. Their eclectic program will include “The Sound of Music,” Floyd Cramer’s “Last Date,” “The Maple Leaf Rag,” Ray Stephen’s “Mississippi Squirrel,” “Shallow” from A Star is Born, and Bobby’s 18-minute arrangement of The Phantom of the Opera.

Classically trained, Bobby van Deusen attended Whetstone School of the Performing Arts in Columbus, Ohio, graduating with distinction. Further studies at Capital University, Ohio State, Eastman, and Curtis helped develop the dazzling technique that became a trademark of his playing style.

After turning pro in 1976, Bobby toured the Midwest, playing clubs, piano bars, and providing concerts. Moving South in 1985 led him to the Rosie O’ Grady’s Dixieland Band and gigs in New Orleans with Pete Fountain, Al Hirt, and The Dukes. He performed with the Delta Queen Steamboat Company for five years, perfecting his stride and ragtime styles.

Bobby has played all over the country with Hilton Hotels, including the Hilton Sandestin, where he was featured entertainer for five years. He has also been the “house band” for RadioLive, a production of WUWF Public Radio, for 18 years. Bobby has also toured the country playing Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” with civic orchestras.

Steve Pikal plays the string bass with gusto and the trombone with finesse. He has played with Bob Hope, Artie Shaw, and Margaret Whiting, to name a few. Locally, he plays with Bill Evans and has played with The Hall Brothers and Butch Thompson.

Percussionist Tom Andrews has played with many popular Dixieland bands at jazz festivals throughout the country. He also performed with the Upper Mississippi Jazz Band.