SPARTA, MO — The little community of Sparta, MO east of Ozark will never be the same.
Tonight, Saturday, May 17, 2025, history will be made. Arthur Duncan Jazz Trio, an epic jazz musical ensemble from Springfield, MO is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. at Muddy Creek Corral, 7502 State Highway 14 E, Sparta, MO 65753. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one! $10 cover charge at the door. Get there before 7 p.m. to enjoy food and drink prior to the show.
Never before has such smooth jazz ever been performed in Sparta! We are used to country music, or maybe a little rock n roll, but this, my friends… Arthur says he’s excited to get to our town tonight, and we are eager to receive his crew!
Following is an article from Unitenewsonline.org:
Local Gospel and Jazz Legend, Shares Musical Journey
By Mary Gartner, Staff Writer
Springfield, MO— Arthur Duncan, a talented jazz and gospel musician hailing from Springfield, has left an indelible mark on the local music scene. From his humble beginnings, learning piano from his mother at the age of five to becoming a renowned performer and educator, Duncan’s journey is one of dedication, passion, and a commitment to community.
He, along with his twin sister, Arthurine, was taught to play the piano by their mother. “My mom taught me as much as she could,” says Duncan. Dedication and regular practice with his mother led the way through his elementary and secondary school years. Duncan continued his learning by listening, playing, and singing gospel music.
Born and raised on the north side of Springfield, Duncan’s musical journey began under the loving guidance of his parents, Arthur Sr. and Florence Duncan. His mother played the piano and organ for the choir at the Benton Avenue AME Church, where she encouraged her young son to join the choir and learn more about music and singing. It was here that Duncan’s love for gospel music flourished, and he soon developed a well-rounded repertoire of both old and new gospel songs, becoming a versatile musician.
While Duncan’s passion for gospel remained strong, it was during his junior high school years that he was introduced to jazz, and his musical abilities truly began to shine. Playing in jazz combos throughout his high school years, Duncan’s talent caught the attention of music enthusiasts, and he received the highest accolades for his performances.
Upon graduating from high school, Duncan faced the choice of attending either Southwest Missouri State University or Drury College, both offering him full scholarships. He ultimately chose Drury, where he delved deeper into jazz and classical music under the tutelage of Dr. Don Verne Joseph (Doc Joseph). It was Doc Joseph who urged Duncan to attend the prestigious Stan Kenton band camp at Townsend State College in Baltimore, where he had the opportunity to practice with some of the most talented musicians from all over the United States. The experience at the camp not only expanded his musical horizons but also motivated him to strive for excellence in his craft.
After graduating from Drury College, Duncan decided to play professionally rather than teaching. He played with a number of well-known bands such as The Fabulous Elites, The KC Express and the ABS Band. As his career progressed he was offered a position with Tony Orlando as musical director, but declined a life on the road. “I had many opportunities, but my path was not to be on the road…I feel God wanted that for me. I was here to take care of my father and my sister.” He continued on with his career as a jazz musician. He has played in many acts, opened up for some great performers as well as being a headliner himself. He doesn’t feel he missed anything.
Between his high school and college years, Duncan formed his own band, Arthur Duncan and the Springfield Connection, which allowed him to further explore his musical prowess. Over the years, he played with several musicians and bands, always striving to keep the jazz legacy alive in Springfield alongside other influential local jazz musicians.
Throughout his career, Duncan remained actively involved with the community, participating in numerous civic and NAACP events. He emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and took on various entrepreneurial ventures, including owning a restaurant, a club, and a limo service.
Despite his success as a jazz musician, Duncan never forgot his roots in gospel music. He continued to play professionally with his band, Saved, and served as the minister of music at churches in the Springfield area for many years. This dual passion for jazz and gospel showcased his versatility and deep connection to both genres.
Arthur is married to Cynthia Duncan, who currently serves as pastor for a mixed congregation at the New Mind, New Faith Church in Springfield.
Today, Arthur Duncan continues to inspire and share his musical knowledge with aspiring musicians. His current band, The Arthur Duncan Trio, features his longtime musical comrades, Richard Allen and Ernie Bedell. The trio performs regularly around Springfield, enchanting audiences with their soulful melodies and impeccable skills.
When asked about his current band, Duncan fondly recalls how his band members met while attending Central High School – “…there was an upright piano in the school cafeteria and I’d go play on it right before school. Next thing you know, everybody’s playing on it…we got a big crowd. He remembers singers, Karen Jackson, SueAnn King and Susan Marshall joining in. “These were the Supremes of Springfield, he muses, chuckling. “At one time they sang with Ernie Bedell and the ABS band…and that’s how we met — in high school. Then everybody took a different direction.”
Duncan imparts his wisdom to students at the Arthur Duncan School of Music, offering music lessons for all levels of learning, from beginners to professionals. Aspiring musicians can benefit from the wealth of knowledge and experience that he has accumulated over the years.
For Arthur Duncan’s School of Music, or for booking information, call 417-894-8422.
Muddy Creek Corral continues to make history
History making musical acts coming to Sparta is a recent phenomenon. Owners Debra and Bill Brewster, real estate and consulting entrepreneurs from Ava, opened Muddy Creek Corral on May 3. Approximately 500 people poured in for the Grand Opening. MO Candy was the final musical act, bringing danceable tunes with a full band from Springfield, MO.
Owner Debra Brewster admitted there were several setbacks due to the overwhelming response. Not all food orders were fulfilled, and without a full-scale commercial kitchen, she and the new hires did all they could. “We are learning and we are growing with you, Sparta. Be patient, and let’s all have a good time as we all share new experiences!” Debra told the CCT.
The venue, formerly a senior center, is open from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and from 11 a.m. until 1 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
Indoor and outdoor seating is available, as well as a full menu and bar. Saturday night entertainment begins at 8 p.m. with a $10 cover featuring a full band. Friday nights are smaller musical acts with no cover. Mondays alternate bingo and trivia at no charge from 7 to 9 p.m., and Wednesdays feature karaoke from 8 to 11 p.m. with host Richard Woods of “You’re the Star” Karaoke and More.
Thursdays are jam nights for musicians and spectators, as are Sunday afternoons from 2 to 4 p.m. Muddy Creek is closed on Tuesdays.
The venue is accepting applications for servers, cooks and bartenders. Contact Debra at 417-250-0824.
