Publisher Description

Chronicles the life of this singular jazz clarinetist, and a detailed discography contains exhaustive data unavailable elsewhere.

Author Biography

John W. Kuehn (BA, MA, Wisconsin; PhD, Colorado) teaches clarinet, saxophone, and music education methods at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and up at the IUP Laboratory School, whose jazz band has performed in the U.S. and abroad. Recipient of distinguished teaching awards, he is jazz editor of the International Clarinet Society and publishes the Buddy DeFranco Newsletter. Arne Astrup, a respected Danish clarinetist, has been active on the Danish jazz scene since the end of World War II and is noted for his discographical work on Stan Getz, Zoot Sims, Gerry Mulligan, and Brew Moore.

Review

...a must for anyone with an interest in the history of jazz clarinet or the instrument's place in the big bands. * Big Bands International *
Long-awaited....fascinating reading....thorough discography...this book has helped to reveal the true gentleman behind the great music. I found it a thoroughly enjoyable read and heartily recommend it. * The IAJRC Journal *
By far the most useful part of the book is the discography. * The Mississippi Rag *
...a fine tribute to a great talent. * Cadence Magazine *
...well-researched book...very thorough...recommended... * Jazziz *

Long Description

Clarinetist Buddy DeFranco has made concert and recording appearances with nearly every important jazz musician in the world, including such legendary figures as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Oscar Peterson, Tommy Dorsey. His playing career spans over half a century and encompasses performances all over the world. The authors chronicle the life of this singular musician, whose tremendous influence on the history and development of jazz has been acknowledged by fellow musicians and critics alike. Leonard Feather calls this a fascinating volume, recognizing DeFranco for the giant he has always been. Photographs from throughout his playing career bring the people and the times to life. Arne Astrup's detailed discography contains exhaustive data unavailable elsewhere.

Review Quote

...well-researched book...very thorough...recommended...

Details