The public is invited to experience an evening of live ragtime music, food and drinks at Rhythm on Route 66, featuring acclaimed pianist and composer Royce Martin. The fundraising event, hosted by the Illinois State Museum Society, will take place from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16, at the Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St.
This is the Society’s second music program in support of the “Miles of Memories: Stories of Route 66” exhibit at the Illinois State Museum. Guests will enjoy a live performance by Martin while connecting with friends, museum supporters and fellow Route 66 enthusiasts.
“I had the pleasure of seeing Royce perform at the Scott Joplin House last year. He’s an extraordinary performer, and he’s incredibly thoughtful and philosophical when it comes to blending music history with his own style,” said Kate Suits, development coordinator for the Illinois State Museum Society.
Martin, a self-taught pianist who began playing at age 14 on a small keyboard, became the in-house pianist at the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site in St. Louis by the age of 18. He later recorded his debut album, Memories on Morgan Street: Scott Joplin Reimagined, at the historic site, releasing the album in 2023. His musical style draws from ragtime, bebop and hip-hop, which he calls “Swagtime.”
Admission for this program is $15 for museum society members and $20 for non-members. Tickets include food courtesy of Bloom Hospitality & Catering, one drink voucher and crafts. For more information, contact Gabby Antonacci at gabriella.r.antonacci@illinois.gov or call 217-782-5993.
