Rick Wakeman, iconic rock keyboardist, to perform at Wolf Trap | Arts & Entertainment
Renowned rock keyboardist Rick Wakeman will be gracing the stage at The Barns at Wolf Trap on March 27 at 8 p.m. as he embarks on what he claims to be his final solo tour. Wakeman expressed, “This is the first date in my final set of one-man shows. It was meant to conclude last year, but due to popular demand, I’ll be performing for a few more weeks.”
Although he will continue touring with band setups, Wakeman has decided to put a halt to his one-man shows due to severe pain caused by arthritis in his hands. Despite his physical challenges, he remains dedicated to creating music. He shared, “It’s quite painful; I resort to putting my hands in ice buckets after every performance. Bringing other musicians along alleviates the pressure on my hands, allowing me to do one more round of solo shows before collaborating with other artists.”
Recognized for his phenomenal musical skills and captivating storytelling, Wakeman’s live performance is anticipated to deliver an unforgettable and nostalgic experience for his admirers. His musical journey commenced at the young age of 5, receiving private piano lessons for 12 years. He received a scholarship to the esteemed Royal College of Music, where he polished his piano, clarinet, and orchestration talents. In March 2012, his contributions to music were acknowledged with the Fellowship of the Royal College of Music by then Prince Charles. Additionally, he was named a professor at the London College of Music.
Wakeman’s musical career catapulted in the late 1960s and early 1970s, positioning him as a highly sought-after session musician, lending his abilities to over 2,000 records. He collaborated on iconic songs like Cat Stevens’ “Morning Has Broken” and David Bowie’s masterpieces. His versatility and musical excellence have solidified his place in the music industry.
As Wakeman gears up for his final solo tour, fans can expect a night filled with soul-stirring music and engaging storytelling that showcases his lifelong passion for music. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a musical legend in action at Wolf Trap’s The Barns. Join him on this unparalleled musical journey that celebrates a remarkable career filled with artistic tributes and powerful melodies.