Clark Terry died yesterday (February 21). His passing will surely be mourned by all within the jazz fraternity and beyond. He was one of a handful of greats whose playing was immediately recognisable even if you'd only heard him once. An outstanding trumpet and flugel horn soloist he is perhaps best remembered for his work with the great Ellington band of the mid to late fifties. I was fortunate to hear the band live at Newcastle Odeon in 1958 and it was truly a night to remember. I heard Clark again at the San Sebastian Jazz Festival in 1972. He was fronting his own big band - one of two big bands at the festival (modesty forbids me naming the other band but it was led by Andy Hudson!)I heard Clark Terry again at the North Sea Jazz Festival in 1984 where he led an octet that included Al Grey, Harry Edison, Ray Bryant and Gus Johnson. A seminal figure who will be very sadly missed. Clark Terry was 94.May he rest in peace.
Obituary.
Lance.
1 comment :
He was one of the great jazz trumpeters and also one of the most consistent. And, talking to him was easy. Frank and incisive views, an all round great bloke
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