Program

Many people know a snatch or two of “Ain’t Misbehavin’” or “Honeysuckle Rose.”

Some may even know that Thomas “Fats” Waller wrote the music for both tunes.

But did you know that the man who wrote the lyrics was the grandson of the queen of Madagascar – with the unlikely moniker of Andreamentina Razafinkeriefo? 

Or that he was best known in the United States as Andy Razaf?

That’s just one example of the intriguing historical and musical tidbits ‘Ragtime’ Jack Radcliffe brings to his performances.

Jack’s presentation sets the stage for a cross-generational cultural connection to America’s own unique musical form – jazz – and in the process helps bind children to an appreciation of this country’s cultural heritage.

The influence – and common thread – of jazz in our culture cannot be overstated.

The first indigenous American style of music, it has influenced music throughout the world, from Afro-pop to klezmer, from gospel to big band swing.

Jack is the ideal presenter for this capsule of entertainment and history, having studied the roots of jazz for more than 40 years, as well as touring and performing.

Add to Jack’s native wit and musicality a newsman’s instinct for getting the facts and telling the story, and a seasoned entertainer’s penchant for timing and phrasing and you’re in for a memorable show.

This program includes a 60- to 90-minute presentation of music, history and cultural information formatted to captivate young and mature minds alike and help them experience an era that would otherwise be lost.  A brief question and answer period will follow.