Because Fats Waller has always been known as one of the great jazz pianists and song writers, it is little known that his career began as an organist and that he attained his greatest musical satisfaction playing the theatre and church organ.

Thomas Wright Waller was born on May 21, 1904, in New York City, the son of a minister of the Abyssinian Baptist Church. He could play by ear at the age of five. At age 15, against the wishes of his parents, he visited the Lincoln Theatre in Harlem to watch a movie. He was so fascinated by the piano and organ music that he forgot about the movie. (Does this sound familiar?) Although he had an impeccable ear, Fats studied with piano teachers such as James P. Johnson. He was also a teacher himself, providing advice and lessons to a young William “Bill” Basie (later known as “Count”) on playing the organ. Fats preferred a non-legato touch with steady rhythm. There are few registration changes needed except contrasting solo stops and accompaniment with ensemble unison stops. The music is easy but you may need pay close attention to the style to get the right feeling; this does not come quickly for some.