Country

:

United States of America

Formed

:

May 25, 1936 in Leavenworth, KS

 

Gary Foster is a renowned American jazz musician and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on November 3, 1936, in Wichita, Kansas, Foster grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a saxophonist, and his mother was a pianist. Foster started playing the clarinet at the age of nine and later switched to the alto saxophone. Foster's musical journey began in his teenage years when he started playing in local bands in Wichita. He moved to Los Angeles in the early 1960s to pursue his passion for music. In Los Angeles, Foster quickly established himself as a versatile musician, playing with various jazz bands and recording sessions. He also started composing music and arranging for big bands. In 1965, Foster joined the Woody Herman Orchestra, one of the most prominent big bands of the time. He played the alto saxophone and clarinet in the band and toured extensively with them. Foster's time with the Woody Herman Orchestra was a significant milestone in his career, as he gained valuable experience and exposure to different styles of music. After leaving the Woody Herman Orchestra, Foster continued to work as a freelance musician in Los Angeles. He played with various jazz bands and recorded with many renowned artists, including Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Ray Charles. Foster also worked as a studio musician, recording music for films and television shows. In addition to his work as a performer, Foster is also a respected educator. He has taught at various universities and music schools, including the University of Southern California and the California Institute of the Arts. Foster has also conducted masterclasses and workshops around the world, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians. Foster's contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. In 1999, he was inducted into the International Jazz Hall of Fame. He has also received several Grammy nominations for his work as a performer and composer. One of Foster's most significant achievements was his collaboration with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. In 1990, Foster was commissioned to compose a piece for the orchestra, which resulted in the creation of "The Gary Foster Suite." The piece was well-received by audiences and critics alike and showcased Foster's ability to blend classical and jazz music seamlessly. Foster's other notable performances include his work with the Bill Holman Orchestra, the Clare Fischer Big Band, and the Tom Kubis Big Band. He has also recorded several albums as a bandleader, including "Make Your Own Fun," "Perfect Circularity," and "Gary Foster Quartet Live at Charlie O's." In conclusion, Gary Foster is a highly respected musician and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His versatility as a performer and composer has earned him numerous awards and accolades, and his collaborations with renowned orchestras and big bands have showcased his ability to blend different styles of music seamlessly. Foster's legacy as a musician and educator will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

More....