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Karl Austin Probst, a/k/a Bart Fubbles is one of the original
pioneers of the Dueling Piano concept and is referred to by musicians
all over the world as a musical genius.
Born, April 13, 1962 in Atlanta, Georgia, Karl grew up in a household
environment filled with music and entertainment. His father, a
multi-instrumentalist, played vibraphone with the Stan Kenton
Orchestra for many years. He also played drums with John Lee Hooker,
Mel Torme, and stood in for Buddy Rich when he was unable to make
a performance.
Karl's mother, a vocal major from the then prestigious University
of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music was a national commercialist
who also worked as a comedian in the "Wits End Players"
(a famous night club act in Atlanta) with Dick Van Dyke in the
1960's.
Karl began cultivating his musical chops at the age of six with
his father's drums. He moved on to piano at age 12 and made all
state choir in high school; singing before President Jimmy Carter.
At 16 Karl had his first professional "gig", touring
the southeastern United States with a variety of bands. In 1986
Karl performed overseas for the U.S.O., entertaining the troops
throughout Turkey, Spain, Italy, Greece, and France.
In 1990, Karl accepted his first "Dueling Piano" position
in Atlanta at L'tl Dittys, and has been performing in that capacity
ever since. Although Karl has moved around the country playing
this concept for clubs ever since, he has a true love of jazz
and is well known for his "classic" rock abilities.
Karl has played with such greats as Fabian, Bo Diddly, B.B. King,
former members of Deep Purple, 38 Special and the Atlanta Rhythm
Section.
Karl's experience in the musical field allows him to perform in
a total comfort zone; understanding the true meaning of showmanship.
His swift wit, coupled with his gift of music provides a great
show for whomever his audience may be...from ages 8-80. Irrespective
of what type of music Karl is called upon to play, one thing is
for sure: he specializes in the ancient art of scorching the 88s!
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