Much maligned by the so-called "jazz purists", but one of the truly great and unique talents in all of music. His style and high note ability have not, and probably will never be equaled.
I had the opportunity to meet him, shake his hand, and have my picture take with him close to three years ago. I wish the occasion would have allowed for a chance to talk to him longer. Like many adolescent trumpet players all the way from the 1950's to the present, he was a source of inspiriation for me growing in the 1970's. Looking back on meeting him, I am glad that I took the opportunity to thank him and tell him how much his art has meant to me.
He will be missed by not only his family and friends, but also by a multitude of life long fans.
I had the opportunity to meet him, shake his hand, and have my picture take with him close to three years ago. I wish the occasion would have allowed for a chance to talk to him longer. Like many adolescent trumpet players all the way from the 1950's to the present, he was a source of inspiriation for me growing in the 1970's. Looking back on meeting him, I am glad that I took the opportunity to thank him and tell him how much his art has meant to me.
He will be missed by not only his family and friends, but also by a multitude of life long fans.