In 2009, Rhoda Scott-known as the „Barefoot Lady” or the „Barefoot Contessa” the world famous African-american hard bop and soul jazz organist comes to Hungary this summer to play a fantastic show in Budapest. Being a daughter of a methodist minister, Scott was raised on youth and gospel choirs in the church where she served frequently as an organist. Later she studied classical piano but she returned to the organ and earned a Master’s degree at the end of her musical studies in the Manhattan School of Music.
She chose the Hammond Organ as her main instrument and soon became the best female jazz organist in the world. She plays barefoot that is where she got her nicknames from. Scott uses the pedals to play a genuine bass line, unlike many other jazz organists, which allows her to use her left hand for more elaborate chord work. The resulting music is an energetic fusion of musical styles that partakes of jazz, gospel, and classical music.
Rhoda Scott loves to play in Hungary and famous standards like: „In the Mood”, „Theme from New York, New York”, „Summertime”, „Take Five”, „Hit the Road Jack”, „Greensleeves”, „Let it Snow” often appear in her repertoire so it can be assured that those who will be there at the MargitSziget Open Air concert will get such a beautiful musical experience they will never forget.
Source: AHU – David A-O