Reviewed by: Fringefeed
Review by Aleighsha Glew | 14 February 2023

Rhapsody in Chicago Blues is a solo show with Chicago-based pianist Tim Barton at Clarences Company Store.

Tim has a 45-year career as a pianist playing both classical and jazz music across Fringe shows internationally.

The quiet-spoken pianist played a combination of music from the romantic and blues eras. Tim incorporated his music with the likes of Beethoven Schumann, Chopin, Scott Joplin, Debussy, and George Gershwin.

The sold-out set saw Tim play to about 30 people in an intimate setting.

While only a small crowd, it was the perfect location for the set. The sound filled Clarence’s without the need for any amplification of the piano. The upright piano had the top opened to allow for the sound to roam freely.

At the start of the show, Tim gave the audience a program of the songs. The 90-minute set was broken into two halves with a 10-minute intermission.

The audience was completely engaged and quiet while Tim played and applauded after each song. Some of the audience were completely mesmerised by the songs played.

Tim engaged with the audience during the intermission and sold his CDs to the audience. The CDs are a recording of the set, which was recorded before the start of Fringe festivals.

It is highly recommended to check out Tim Barton if you get the chance. Tim is a talented pianist.