The extraordinary Benny Goodman, a virtuosic clarinetist, prolific composer, and masterful conductor, whose profound influence on the realm of jazz is still palpable today.
Born with a passion for music, Benny Goodman's academic journey led him to the esteemed Lewis Institute in Chicago, where he had the privilege of studying under the tutelage of two distinguished mentors, the incomparable Schillinger and the erudite Schoepp. Under their expert guidance, Goodman refined his craft, laying the foundation for a illustrious career that would ultimately earn him a legendary status in the world of jazz.
Noted clarinetist Goodman embarked on a remarkable professional path, initially honing his skills as a member of esteemed orchestras led by celebrated bandleaders Bix Beiderbecke, Jules Herbuveaux, Arnold Johnson, and Ben Pollack. Furthermore, he gained valuable experience performing in the orchestras of Broadway theater productions. In 1934, Goodman seized the opportunity to lead his own orchestras at the renowned Billy Rose Music Hall, a prestigious venue that showcased his exceptional conducting abilities.
Noted virtuoso, his remarkable career is characterized by an impressive array of performances at various esteemed establishments, including numerous hotels, colleges, and theaters, as well as a remarkable wealth of experience in chamber music concerts.
His extensive touring schedule, which spanned the globe, took him to diverse destinations, including the United States, Europe, the Far East, South America, and the USSR, resulting in a vast and impressive collection of recorded works, a true treasure trove of his artistic endeavors.
Noted jazz pianist and composer Benny Goodman, a stalwart member of the esteemed American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) since 1945, had the privilege of collaborating with an impressive array of musical giants, including the legendary Count Basie, renowned trumpeter Harry James, esteemed lyricist Mitchell Parish, celebrated songwriter Andy Razaf, accomplished composer Edgar M. Sampson, and the iconic pianist Chick Webb, as well as the brilliant Teddy Wilson.
Benny Goodman's extensive and esteemed discography is replete with a plethora of cherished and iconic songs and instrumental masterpieces, featuring an impressive array of sonic treasures that have stood the test of time, including the timeless "Lullaby in Rhythm", the memorable "Don't Be That Way", the jazz standard "Seven Come Eleven", the energetic "Flying Home", the swingin' "Two O'Clock Jump", the electrifying "Air Mail Special", the captivating "Dizzy Spells", the romantic "If Dreams Come True", the lively "Georgia Jubilee", the melodic "Four Once More", and the iconic "The Kingdom of Swing".
