Stan Kenton

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About Stan Kenton

An innovative and pioneering bandleader, Stan Kenton led a succession of highly original ensembles that often emphasized emotion, power, and advanced harmonies over swing. Balancing a West Coast cool with modern classical influences, Kenton and his orchestra first garnered attention in the 1940s with hits like "Tampico" and "It's Been a Long, Long time," as well as albums like Artistry in Rhythm and A Presentation of Progressive Jazz. Many of his group's featured top talent, helping launch the careers of stars like Art Pepper, Stan Getz, Anita O'Day, and June Christy. He often favored unusual instrumentation, utilizing French horns on 1950's Innovations in Modern Music and launching his mellophonium group of the '60s. Accolades followed, including a Grammy for 1962's Kenton's West Side Story. By the time of his passing in 1979, Kenton had earned a reputation as one of jazz's top cult figures.

HOMETOWN
Wichita, KS, United States
BORN
15 December 1911
GENRE
Jazz

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