E. Robert van Deusen, a Philadelphia native, began his musical training at age 7. Precocious
from a very early age, he started picking out tunes by mimicking the family player piano.
Classically trained, he attended Whetstone School of the Performing Arts in Columbus, Ohio,
graduating with distinction. Further studies at Capital University, Ohio State, Eastman, and
Curtis helped develop his dazzling technique, a trademark of his playing. Turning pro in 1976,
he toured the Midwest, playing clubs, piano bars and shows. Moving South in 1985 led him to
the Rosie O' Gradys Dixieland Band, and gigs in New Orleans with Pete Fountain, Al Hirt, and The
Dukes. He performed with the Delta Queen Steamboat Company for 5 years, perfecting his
stride and ragtime styles. Bobby has played all over the country with Hilton Hotels, notably the
Hilton at Sandestin, where he was featured entertainer for 5 years. He has been the 'House
Band' for RadioLive, a production of WUWF Public Radio, for 18 years, and is currently touring
playing Gershwins "Rhapsody in Blue" with Civic Orchestras around the country, and is currently
negotiating with world class Cruise lines to appear as a Guest Artist on their vessels!
from a very early age, he started picking out tunes by mimicking the family player piano.
Classically trained, he attended Whetstone School of the Performing Arts in Columbus, Ohio,
graduating with distinction. Further studies at Capital University, Ohio State, Eastman, and
Curtis helped develop his dazzling technique, a trademark of his playing. Turning pro in 1976,
he toured the Midwest, playing clubs, piano bars and shows. Moving South in 1985 led him to
the Rosie O' Gradys Dixieland Band, and gigs in New Orleans with Pete Fountain, Al Hirt, and The
Dukes. He performed with the Delta Queen Steamboat Company for 5 years, perfecting his
stride and ragtime styles. Bobby has played all over the country with Hilton Hotels, notably the
Hilton at Sandestin, where he was featured entertainer for 5 years. He has been the 'House
Band' for RadioLive, a production of WUWF Public Radio, for 18 years, and is currently touring
playing Gershwins "Rhapsody in Blue" with Civic Orchestras around the country, and is currently
negotiating with world class Cruise lines to appear as a Guest Artist on their vessels!
Bobby plays regularly at clubs and Fine Dining
Establishments in the Destin and Pensacola area. A
licensed pilot, Bobby is an improving golfer, and loves
playing video games with his sons Barron and Jack.
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