Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

March 23, 1945 in Hackensack, NJ

 

David Grisman is a renowned American mandolinist and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of bluegrass and jazz music. He was born on March 23, 1945, in Hackensack, New Jersey, and grew up in a musical family. His father was a professional trombonist, and his mother was a pianist. Grisman started playing the piano at a young age, but he soon switched to the mandolin, which became his primary instrument. Grisman's interest in music was sparked by his exposure to traditional folk and bluegrass music. He was particularly influenced by the music of Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass music. Grisman started playing the mandolin when he was just 16 years old, and he quickly developed a unique style that blended elements of bluegrass, jazz, and classical music. In the early 1960s, Grisman moved to New York City, where he became part of the burgeoning folk music scene. He played with a number of different bands and musicians, including the Even Dozen Jug Band, which included future music legends such as John Sebastian and Maria Muldaur. Grisman also played with the likes of Peter Rowan, Jerry Garcia, and Vassar Clements, among others. In the late 1960s, Grisman moved to San Francisco, where he became part of the city's vibrant music scene. He formed a band called Earth Opera, which blended elements of rock, folk, and classical music. The band released two albums, but they were not commercially successful. In the early 1970s, Grisman began to focus more on his mandolin playing and composing. He formed a band called the David Grisman Quintet, which included some of the best musicians in the country, such as Tony Rice, Darol Anger, and Mark O'Connor. The band's music was a unique blend of bluegrass, jazz, and classical music, and it quickly gained a following. Grisman's music has been described as "dawg music," a term he coined himself. The term refers to the fact that his music is a blend of different styles, just like a dog is a mix of different breeds. Grisman's music is characterized by his virtuosic mandolin playing, intricate melodies, and complex harmonies. Grisman has released over 30 albums throughout his career, and he has collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Jerry Garcia, Stephane Grappelli, and Bela Fleck. Some of his most notable albums include "Hot Dawg," "Dawg Jazz/Dawg Grass," and "Dawgwood." Grisman's music has been recognized with numerous awards and honors. He has been nominated for several Grammy Awards, and he has won several International Bluegrass Music Association Awards. In 2006, he was inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. In addition to his music career, Grisman is also an avid collector of vintage instruments. He has a collection of over 200 instruments, including mandolins, guitars, and banjos. He has also written several books on the history of the mandolin and its role in American music. Overall, David Grisman is a true musical innovator who has pushed the boundaries of traditional bluegrass and jazz music. His unique blend of styles has inspired countless musicians, and his virtuosic mandolin playing has earned him a place among the greatest musicians of all time.

More....