Interview by Elizabeth Schaaf of Ellis Larkins (1923-2002), a pianist based in Baltimore. Larkins's wife, Crystal Larkins, is also heard during the interview.

In 1934 Ellis Larkins made his debut with the Baltimore City Colored Orchestra. Larkins studied classical piano at Douglass High School and at the Peabody Conservatory of Music, at a time when African-American students were generally not admitted at Peabody. Larkins also served as an organist at the St. James Episcopal Church in Harlem Park.

In 1940 Larkins received a scholarship to attend the Juilliard School of Music, graduating in 1943. While in New York he worked as a pianist in several different clubs and restaurants. It was there that he began his career as a jazz musician, playing in a trio led by the guitarist Billy Moore. Larkins worked for several years as a vocal coach and accompanist for Ella Fitzgerald, Helen Humes, and Joe Williams. He recorded music with Ella Fitzgerald and appeared in a few short films and documentaries. Larkins continued to perform at clubs and festivals in New York and California. In 1984, the Peabody Institute awarded Larkins an honorary bachelor of music degree. He retired in Baltimore and died in 2002.