Judy Carmichael: Jazz Singer & Pianist

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Not many contemporary jazz pianists can boast a nickname given to them by the great Count Basie. Judy Carmichael can though. The Count was so impressed by the young pianist's awesome two-fisted technique that he dubbed her 'Stride' in reference to her mastery of the pre-World War II solo playing style popularised by Fats Waller.

In the technically and physically demanding stride style, the left hand makes huge octave leaps (or strides) in order to provide percussive accompaniment for the right hand, so dispensing with the need for a conventional rhythm section.

Grammy-nominated Carmichael, named a 'Steinway Artist' by the prestigious piano-maker, was the first jazz musician to tour China with US government sponsorship. She has played Carnegie Hall and performed privately for sax-totin' Bill Clinton. She even has her own radio show. No wonder she's such a great raconteur on stage!