Wijnands plays Garner on Oct. 1

Bram Wijnands

A graduate of Hilversum Conservatory in the Netherlands, Bram Wijnands came to Kansas City in 1991. While known for his stride, boogie-woogie, and swing piano performances, on Oct. 1, Wijnands will offer the timeless music of Erroll Garner at Upcycle's happy hour. Mayor Emanuel Cleaver named Wijnands Kansas City’s ambassador of swing and proclaimed April 6 Bram Wijnands Day. He taught for 15 years at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Garner (composer of "Misty") is known for his lush, enthralling, touching music. Though primarily a swing player, Garner performed with Charlie Parker on the "Cool Blues" session. Garner was 5 feet, 2 inches tall and performed while sitting on telephone directories. He was also known for his vocalizations while playing, which can be heard on some recordings. Garner helped to bridge the gap for jazz musicians between nightclubs and the concert hall.

Garner’s "Misty" rapidly became a jazz standard – and was featured in Clint Eastwood's film “Play Misty for Me” (1971).

Garner possibly was inspired by Earl Hines, a fellow Pittsburgh resident who was 18 years Garner’s senior. Resemblances can be seen in their approach to time and use of right-hand octaves.