Sidney Bechet (May 14, 1897 – May 14, 1959) was an American jazz saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer.
He was one of the first important soloists in jazz (beating cornetist and trumpeter Louis Armstrong to the recording studio by several months and later playing duets with Armstrong), and was perhaps the first notable jazz saxophonist. Forceful delivery, well-constructed improvisations, and a distinctive, wide vibrato characterized Bechet's playing.
Bechet's erratic temperament hampered his career, however, and not until the late 1940s did he earn wide acclaim.
Read more about Sidney Bechet: Biography, Marriage and Family, Legacy and Honors, Music
Famous quotes containing the word sidney:
“Well, begone, begone, I say,
Lest that Argus’ eyes perceive you.’
Oh, unjust Fortunes sway,
Which can make me thus to leave you,
And from louts to run away.”
—Sir Philip Sidney (1554–1586)