Philip Acklin attended grade and high school in Decatur IL, where he participated in the band playing trumpet. Upon a visit with his parents to the Whistle Stop Diner in Blue Mound IL, he was exposed to Ragtime, traditional jazz, and Tin Pan Alley standards. He went to work at the diner, which included performances by piano artists or champs like Sue Keller, Brian Holland, Richard Zimmerman, Faye Ballard and the late Marty Sammon. During two breaks for the artists, Philip and diner owner Ted Lemen entertained the audience with a sing-along set and Philip’s bones playing. Ted and Philip continue to work together on shows for nursing homes and senior’s groups.
Listen to Philip Acklin: